The reductions expand on an earlier agreement to cut 35,000 roles and will affect multiple areas of the group’s operations. Blume said the measures are intended to improve efficiency and strengthen competitiveness as the company adapts to changing market conditions.
The announcement came alongside Volkswagen’s annual results, which showed a sharp decline in profitability. Net profit fell 44% to €6.9 billion, while operating profit dropped 53% to €8.9 billion. The company attributed the decline to higher costs and significant one-off charges linked to restructuring and strategic adjustments.
Revenue remained broadly stable at €322 billion, with vehicle deliveries totalling around nine million units for the year.
Volkswagen said its cost-cutting programme generated approximately €1 billion in savings in 2025, with annual savings expected to exceed €6 billion by 2030.
Blume added that management changes are being implemented to streamline decision-making, with greater central oversight of key operational areas while maintaining brand independence.
The company expects ongoing challenges, including competitive pressures and elevated costs, to continue affecting performance in the near term.
