Volkswagen Group’s chief executive has indicated a potential reduction of up to 100,000 jobs globally, a figure significantly higher than previously announced. This move stems from a sharp decline in profits, attributed to falling sales in key markets and increased competition from Chinese manufacturers. The company aims to enhance efficiency and reduce costs, acknowledging that its operational expenses are considerably higher than those of its competitors. Discussions regarding job losses are ongoing across all brands and regions, with the future of several German factories, including those producing electric vehicles, remaining uncertain.
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It appears Volkswagen’s CEO is setting the stage for a massive workforce reduction, with reports from Manager Magazin indicating a target of cutting around 100,000 jobs as part of a significant company overhaul. This is a stark figure, especially when considering Volkswagen employs approximately 650,000 people globally. The sheer scale of such a layoff suggests a deep and perhaps fundamental restructuring is underway.
The current state of Volkswagen’s stock performance, where $100 invested five years ago would now be worth only $35, points to a prolonged period of struggle, not a sudden downturn. This consistent decline, even before accounting for inflation, paints a picture of a company in what some might describe as a managed decline, a concerning observation for such a historically dominant player in the automotive industry.… Continue reading
Wholesale motor oil prices are surging, and industry executives warn of imminent shortages driven by the war with Iran. Damage to Middle Eastern facilities and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz have disrupted the supply of crucial base oils, particularly Group III, which is vital for modern vehicle lubricants. While workarounds are expected to emerge, these temporary solutions may potentially compromise the long-term health of engines.
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Spurred by rising fuel costs, demand for electric vehicles is increasing globally, with Chinese manufacturers, particularly BYD, capitalizing on this trend. Despite limited access to the U.S. market, BYD is experiencing surging orders across Asia and other international markets, driven by consumers seeking cost savings. The company is addressing supply challenges and aims to overcome charging time concerns with its new “flash charging” technology, a significant development expected to boost EV adoption worldwide. This global shift was evident at the Beijing Auto Show, where Chinese automakers featured prominently.
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Volkswagen has officially surpassed Tesla as Europe’s leading electric vehicle (EV) seller in 2025, a significant shift in the rapidly evolving automotive landscape. This development, while a win for the established German automaker, is also being viewed as a consequence of Tesla’s recent stumbles and a broader trend of European consumers leaning towards domestic brands. The narrative surrounding this shift suggests a complex interplay of market forces, consumer sentiment, and even geopolitical factors.
It appears that a growing wave of “Buy European” sentiment is playing a substantial role in Volkswagen’s ascent. Many consumers across the continent are reportedly shunning brands perceived as having problematic associations, with Elon Musk’s public stances and perceived meddling in European political affairs cited as a primary reason for Tesla’s declining appeal.… Continue reading
In a landmark shift, electric vehicles (EVs) outsold gasoline-powered cars in Europe for the first time in December of last year. Over 300,000 EVs were purchased, representing a 50% year-over-year increase, driven by the availability of more affordable models. While hybrids still lead in sales, the growth rate of EV registrations is significantly higher, narrowing the gap. This trend signals a notable transition in the European car market, with gas car registrations declining substantially.
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On January 29, 2026, the Minister of Industry and the Presidential Special Envoy for Strategic Economic Cooperation of the Republic of Korea met to discuss expanding bilateral industrial cooperation. A memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed to strengthen Canada-Korea industrial collaboration, focusing on future mobility and establishing an industrial cooperation committee. This agreement aims to deepen the Canada-Korea Comprehensive Strategic Partnership by supporting investments in battery production, critical minerals, and domestic EV manufacturing. The collaboration seeks to diversify Canada’s economy, attract investments, and secure economic resilience by enhancing the automotive supply chain and cooperation on critical mineral supply chains, the clean energy transition, and energy security.
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Volkswagen is reportedly reconsidering plans for a significant Audi factory in the United States, attributing the decision to President Trump’s automotive tariffs. The company’s CEO disclosed that these levies resulted in a $2.5 billion loss during the initial nine months of 2025. German investments in the US experienced a substantial 45% year-on-year decrease during the same period. Following Trump’s warnings of potential further tariffs, and growing global trade uncertainty, the price of gold reached an unprecedented level.
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Breaking with the United States, Canada has agreed to lower tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, implementing an initial cap on imports and a reduced tariff rate. In return, China will significantly lower its tariffs on Canadian canola seeds, a key export for Canada. The deal aims to diversify Canada’s economy and drive investment in its auto sector, while also improving relations with China, marking a shift from previous alignment with the U.S. Amidst concerns from some Canadian officials and criticism from the U.S. Trade Representative, this move is seen by some as a success for China, which is hoping to drive a wedge between Canada and the U.S.
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Due to the ongoing war in Ukraine, Hyundai is unable to repurchase its former manufacturing plant in Russia, according to a source familiar with the internal deliberations. The automaker sold the plant in St. Petersburg in 2024 to AGR Automotive Group, including a buyback option set to expire in January. Although a final decision has not been made, the source cited the conflict as the primary reason for the situation, making a buyback impossible. This development mirrors a trend among foreign carmakers exiting the Russian market, with several other companies also facing expiring buyback options.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood