Audi is thinking of halting production of the Audi Q8 e-tron at its factory in Forest, Belgium, earlier than planned.
The car manufacturer announced the potential change on Tuesday evening, following a special board meeting. It cited restructuring plans as the reason, given that the Q8 e-tron is currently the factory’s only model.
The closure of the factory could be on the cards, if no alternatives are found.
“While this intention is not yet a decision, it is needless to say it deeply concerns our employees and myself,” said Volker Germann, CEO of Audi Brussels. “It’s crucial we maintain a transparent and constructive dialogue throughout the following processes. All viewpoints will be considered.”
The Q8 e-tron, which is the only model produced in Forest, had previously been reported to be scheduled for production in Mexico from 2027 onwards.
Workers’ representatives at Audi AG are seeking “sustainable prospects” for the Vorst factory, according to Rita Beck, spokesperson for the Audi committee in the VW Group’s European Works Council.
“We need the Audi management to take responsibility for the site,” Beck said. "We hope a viable and sustainable solution will be worked out in the consultation process that has now begun."
