VW launches Tayron SUV production amidst union tensions

WOLFSBURG: Volkswagen’s Wolfsburg plant officially began series production of the Tayron SUV last week, marking a significant milestone for the automaker’s largest facility.

The Tayron, a versatile SUV with an optional seven-seat configuration, becomes the fourth model produced at the Wolfsburg plant alongside the Golf, Tiguan, and Touran.

To date, the facility has produced over 48 million vehicles, more than any other car plant globally.

The event was attended by Wolfsburg plant manager Uwe Schwartz, Works Council deputy chairman Jürgen Mahnkopf, and employees from various disciplines,.

The Tayron's integration into Assembly Line 4 was achieved without interrupting Tiguan production, a feat praised by Schwartz.

“A car launch is always a team effort,” said Schwartz.

“The successful ramp-up is a testament to seamless collaboration across production, procurement, and technical development departments.”

The first Tayron, featuring a 2.0-litre TDI engine and Ultra Violet Metallic finish, rolled off the line last week. Showroom models for European dealers are expected by March, with customer deliveries shortly after.

Mahnkopf pointed out the Tayron’s significance for job security, highlighting the model's anticipated popularity in China and Europe.

"Our colleagues in production have done a great job under challenging conditions," he said. Yet, he acknowledged the need for continued collaboration to sustain Wolfsburg's legacy.

The Tayron will be Volkswagen’s second-largest SUV in Europe after the Touareg, with options including two next-generation plug-in hybrid variants capable of electric ranges over 100km and combined ranges of up to 850km.

However, the celebratory atmosphere was tempered by ongoing tensions between Volkswagen management and its workers' union over mass layoffs, pay reductions and possible plant closures as the auto industry grapples with a major structural shift amid Chinese competition and cooling consumer demand.

Union leaders have called for workers to strike today as issues remained unresolved.