Ford Motor Co. has announced plans to cut its European workforce by 4,000 employees by the end of 2027, primarily affecting operations in Germany and the UK, as the company grapples with economic pressures and a decline in electric vehicle (EV) sales.

The labor union, led by works council chairman Benjamin Gruschka, has expressed strong opposition to these layoffs, labeling the day of the announcement as a 'black day' for Ford and vowing to resist the cuts.

These layoffs are expected to have significant personal impacts, particularly on assembly line workers and their families, underscoring the human cost of the automotive industry's ongoing transformation.

Despite the layoffs, Ford's facilities in the UK, specifically in Dagenham and Halewood, will remain unaffected, although other sites may face scrutiny.

The automotive industry is bracing for a particularly challenging 2025, prompting calls for better governmental support to help manufacturers navigate the transition to electrification.

Gruschka has criticized Ford's management for their ruthless approach, noting that such behavior is unprecedented in the company's history.

Economic stagnation and job insecurity are contributing to consumer hesitance in purchasing new cars, complicating the industry's recovery.

In response to the challenges, Ford has called for collaboration among industry stakeholders, policymakers, and trade unions to facilitate the transition to electrified mobility.

The company had previously committed $50 billion in 2023 to develop new EVs and expand its offerings, but has faced significant challenges in the market.

While the focus in the U.S. has been on high-end EVs, demand for luxury models is stabilizing, as affluent consumers have largely completed their purchases.

Political instability in Germany, along with rising trade tensions with China, is further complicating the automotive landscape and contributing to uncertainty in the industry.

Employees were informed of the layoffs through an email sent late on November 20, 2024, after most had left work, leading to frustration among the workforce.