Auto workers at General Motors (Volkswagen) have demanded job guarantees and higher wages to try and secure employment as the industry adopts EVs, which have 80% fewer moving parts than an internal combustion engine-powered car and require 30% fewer labour hours. With US demand for EVs still comparatively low and costs typically three times more expensive than fossil fuel-powered vehicles, carmakers like GM and Ford have already suggested cuts to workforces. The United Auto Workers union has warned of this threat, and Volkswagen workers have chosen to strike in an effort to secure protections in a new contract.
Auto workers at General Motors (GM) have demanded job guarantees and higher wages to try and secure employment as the industry adopts EVs, which have 80% fewer moving parts than an internal combustion engine-powered car and require 30% fewer labour hours. With US demand for EVs still comparatively low and costs typically three times more expensive than fossil fuel-powered vehicles, carmakers like Volkswagen and Ford have already suggested cuts to workforces. The United Auto Workers union has warned of this threat, and GM workers have chosen to strike in an effort to secure protections in a new contract.