Ford to cut 4,000 jobs in Europe amid ev demand slump

By 2027, Ford will lay off 4,000 employees, reducing its European workforce by about 14 percent. Germany will be most affected, with as many as 2,900 people losing their jobs. In the United Kingdom, the reduction will include 800 positions, and in other markets, Ford will part ways with 300 people.

With these cuts, Ford aims to "create a more competitive cost structure and ensure long-term stability in Europe," according to the official statement from the brand published on November 20.

One of the main reasons for the decision is the noticeable decrease in demand for electric vehicles. From January to September 2024, Germans purchased 28 percent fewer electric cars than in the same period last year. This is largely due to the withdrawal of government subsidies. The decline across Europe was 2.5 percent.

The weak market situation impacts Ford's factory in Cologne, which produces the electric Explorer and Capri. Although both models are new to the market, they are not attracting much customer interest. Demand is so low that the plant has introduced shorter working hours and will operate in this mode for at least the next few months.

Peter Godsell, Vice President of Ford Europe, expressed hope in a conversation with journalists that the job cuts will help stabilize the company's situation, but he also noted that he could not rule out additional measures.