The Call for Change in Volkswagen: A Return to the 40-Hour Workweek
The ongoing crisis in the German automotive industry has raised significant challenges for companies like Volkswagen (VW). Automotive expert Ferdinand Dudenhöffer argues that a crucial step towards mitigating these challenges is the reinstatement of the 40-hour workweek without wage compensation. He believes this shift could help tackle the “high production costs” that have been plaguing the industry.
The Current State of the Automotive Industry
In Germany, the standard workweek is currently set at 35 hours. Dudenhöffer suggests that this model may not be sustainable in the face of rising international competition. He controversially stated, “Let’s throw away collective bargaining autonomy for a few years!” This radical stance beckons a collaborative dialogue among policymakers, unions, and businesses, encouraging employees to make sacrifices for the greater good of the industry.
As Dudenhöffer emphasizes, Germany has enjoyed considerable prosperity over the years, but the landscape is changing. The global market is more competitive, and to remain viable, adaptations must be made.
Potential for Recovery
Despite the turmoil, Dudenhöffer remains optimistic about the future of German automakers. He predicts that a recovery might be possible within five to seven years. “The time before that will be incredibly challenging; we need to work exceptionally hard,” he stated.
This outlook reflects a belief that, while the current situation is dire, structural changes could pave the way for a more competitive landscape, allowing companies to thrive in the long term.
Addressing the Electric Vehicle Concerns
Another point of contention Dudenhöffer addresses is the criticism directed at manufacturers for falling behind in the electric vehicle (EV) transition. He asserts that VW was the first European manufacturer to invest in a plant dedicated to producing electric cars. Highlighting the success of brands like Skoda, he argues that the perception that automakers have overlooked the importance of electrification is misguided.
“Skoda can do it, so the general suspicion that automakers are lagging behind is incorrect,” he asserts, reinforcing the industry’s commitment to embracing new technologies.
Uncertainties and Employment Challenges
However, uncertainty remains prevalent, particularly following a recent VW supervisory board meeting that yielded no concrete results. Dudenhöffer warned that this ambiguity is detrimental to customers, employees, and investors alike.
Moreover, alarming reports indicate that up to 100,000 jobs could be lost globally, which is double the number initially estimated. Some articles project potential closures of four key VW plants in Germany: Hannover, Emden, Zwickau, and Neckarsulm. The exact details of these potential closures have not yet been confirmed by the company.
Furthermore, VW recently reported declining sales figures, with a nearly nine percent drop in vehicle sales during the second quarter of 2026. These developments highlight the urgency for effective strategies to stabilize the company and secure its future in a rapidly changing market.
Conclusion: A Path Forward
The call for a return to the 40-hour workweek at Volkswagen serves as a reflection of the broader challenges facing the automotive sector. While Dudenhöffer outlines a path that may involve sacrifices from employees, the hope for a turnaround remains. Adapting to an increasingly competitive landscape while embracing innovation may indeed set the stage for a sustainable future in the automotive industry, but it will require collaboration and commitment across all fronts.
As VW navigates these turbulent waters, it becomes clear that both immediate and long-term strategies will be essential in ensuring the resilience and competitiveness of German automakers in the global market.
