"Significant individual errors"
In a series of developments, Volkswagen Sachsen, the German automaker's plant in Zwickau, is facing a period of transition following the resignations of two key figures in its works council.
Uwe Kunstmann, the works council chair, has stepped down due to personal misconduct, confirmed by Volkswagen to the German Press Agency. The resignation comes after Kunstmann admitted to causing a traffic accident in July. He has expressed his intention to prevent any potential damage to the workforce and the company, and will remain in his positions until the end of September to ensure a smooth transition process.
Kristin Oder, deputy chair of the works council, also announced her resignation, but the reasons for her departure were not specified. Her role, along with the position of the works council chair, will need to be filled by the IG Metall union. The union must determine a successor by October to represent the interests of employees both on-site and in Wolfsburg. However, as of now, the successor is not specified in the available information.
The resignation of Kunstmann and the temporary departure of Oder may have an impact on the operations at Volkswagen Sachsen. Spokesperson Christina Sommer mentioned that the personnel matter came at the end of a difficult week for VW Sachsen. No further details about the impact have been provided.
The plant in Zwickau, a pioneer site for producing only fully electric vehicles since November 2019, is facing pressure due to the company's austerity course. Demand for electric vehicles produced in Zwickau is waning, resulting in many temporary contracts not being renewed and the discontinuation of the night shift on the two production lines.
However, hopes for the plant rest on new, more affordable electric models that VW plans to present at the IAA Mobility. The success of these models could potentially revitalise the plant and its workforce.
The works council of Volkswagen AG has expressed its views, stating that Kunstmann's resignation due to traffic misconduct is consistent and correct. They also acknowledged Kunstmann's tireless commitment to co-determination. Christina Sommer, head of corporate communications and public affairs at Volkswagen, has accepted Kunstmann's decision and thanked him for his cooperation.
The next works council election at VW Sachsen is scheduled for January. Until then, the plant will continue its operations, aiming to weather this period of change and emerge stronger.
