In the past year, the factory in Ghent has seen a significant decrease in employment due to the shift in market demand. Currently, around 650 white-collar workers and approximately 6,500 workers are on temporary leave, with production lines being adapted to accommodate the construction of an electric model. However, despite this decline in demand for electric cars in Europe, Volvo’s electric models have seen unprecedented sales figures in the first months of 2024.
Volvo Car Ghent is one of the largest industrial employers in Flanders and has been committed to adapting to market needs while ensuring the sustainability of its workforce. This year, fewer electric vehicles will be produced, but Volvo plans to introduce the EX30 model soon. The factory expects growth in production and aims to produce more cars than ever before. Recruitment is ongoing for technical profiles and other shortage professions as Volvo continues its success in the electric vehicle sector.
The decline in demand for electric vehicles is not due to disappointing sales figures by other brands in Europe, but rather a shift towards hybrid cars like Volvo’s XC40 (recently renamed EX40). Despite this change, Volvo remains dedicated to achieving its goal of producing half of its global sales volume with electric vehicles by 2025 through continued investment in research and development. While temporary unemployment may continue to be a factor for some time, Volvo is determined to maintain its presence and success in the European market.