Volkswagen announced a plan to drop 75 models over the next decade, a core element of its Future Plan 2030 strategy that aims to reshape the company’s product range and streamline production across its global network.
The move will halve the model line-up, cut variation by 75% and eliminate 100,000 jobs, a step intended to lower operating costs while concentrating resources on the key markets of North America and China. By concentrating on fewer platforms, the automaker expects to achieve higher efficiency in engineering and supply-chain management.
At the Paris Motor Show, VW brand chief Thomas Schäfer described the shift as a natural transition for the brand, emphasizing that internal-combustion engines will disappear from European roads by 2035. He highlighted the need to align product planning with stricter emissions rules and changing consumer preferences.
He added that keeping both an ID. Polo and a conventional Polo, or an ID. Cross alongside a T-Cross, makes little sense in a market that increasingly favors electrified models. Selecting one version for each segment would effectively halve the overall line-up.
The T-Roc Cabriolet is among the models slated for removal, a decision driven by its weak sales performance and the strategic focus on higher-margin electric offerings. The model’s departure reflects the broader intent to retire poorly performing variants.
Audi, Porsche and Lamborghini present a particular challenge because the 2035 deadline does not apply to their high-performance petrol models, so new vehicles will be grouped in collaboration clusters. This approach allows shared development while preserving each marque’s distinct character.
The Electric Urban Car Family illustrates the new method, sharing more than 80% of parts among the Cupra Raval, ID. Polo, Ĺ koda Epiq and ID. All-cross. Each vehicle retains its own badge, but the common architecture reduces engineering costs and shortens time-to-market.
Oliver Blume labeled the overhaul the biggest transformation programme in the company’s history, unveiling it at a “For Europe” briefing before the motor show. He warned that tens of thousands of jobs could be lost and that some factories might face closure as part of the restructuring.
He explained that the pressure stems from the rapid rise of Chinese electric vehicles in Europe, noting that the three firms together produce over 60% of the continent’s cars and now face intense competition from newcomers.
Blume also supports the proposed Made in Europe incentives and praised an EU-China agreement that could halve Chinese plug-in hybrid imports, a move he sees as protecting European manufacturers.
