Volkswagen has halted electric vehicle production at its Zwickau, Germany facility for three weeks due to a shortage of electric motors in the supply chain. Automotive News Europe reports that the disruption underscores how even large automakers can be vulnerable to bottlenecks in critical powertrain components that ripple across multiple plants and models.
A Volkswagen Group spokesperson noted that assembly of electric drives at the Components plant in Kassel is currently limited. The statement confirms that the supply constraints are impacting manufacturing capacity beyond the Zwickau site and are affecting the broader network that supports future EV ramp-ups.
As a result, production of the VW ID4 and ID5 is set to pause for roughly three weeks. In addition, issues with key components led to the suspension of Audi Q4 E-tron and Audi Q4 Sportback E-tron production, signaling a broader impact on the group’s electric lineup while suppliers work to restore steady output.
Despite the pause affecting several models, production of the VW ID3 and the Cupra Born is proceeding according to the established plan. These models continue to roll off the lines as the company manages limited downtime and adjusts schedules to align with available parts.
In related industry news, reports previously indicated that AvtoVAZ planned an additional Lada Granta variant that would omit airbags. This development reflects a wider pattern of automotive manufacturers navigating safety equipment decisions in response to cost pressures and supply challenges, particularly in markets seeking to balance price and risk.