Volkswagen's board approved a major restructuring plan ("Future Plan 2030") involving 100,000 job cuts (50,000 additional to existing 50,000) by 2030—the largest in the company's 89-year history. The plan also cuts R&D investment by 16%, reduces vehicle models by half by 2035, and explores closing 4 German plants. Triggered by falling Chinese sales, high German costs, and Chinese EV competition (BYD), this aggressive cost reduction aims to achieve 9% profit margins while freeing capital for high-return brands. Though unions secured guarantees against involuntary layoffs through 2030, the scope reflects existential pressure on Europe's largest automaker.