The symbol is strong: the Transparent factory in Dresden, Volkswagen’s technological showcase, could soon come under the Chinese flag.
This is news that has the effect of a bombshell in the European automobile industry: Chinese investors are negotiating behind the scenes to acquire several industrial gems from Volkswagen in Germany.
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The information, revealed by Reutersconcerns in particular the legendary Transparent factory in Dresden and the historic site of Osnabrück. Enough to shake the German industrial landscape.
“We are looking for sustainable solutions”Volkswagen simply responds soberly.
A finely orchestrated strategy
The Desde plant now produces only 6,000 ID.3s per year — a drop in the ocean of VW production. Its scheduled closure at the end of 2025 makes it a prime target for Chinese investors, who see it as a golden opportunity.
But why is China so interested in these factories? The answer is as simple as it is strategic: by producing directly in Europe, Chinese manufacturers would skillfully circumvent customs barriers while offering themselves the precious label “ Made in Germany“. A masterstroke.
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The Osnabrück site, former Karmann stronghold, is also one of the targets. With the T-Roc Cabrio planned to be discontinued in 2027, its future was already uncertain. Chinese investors could well be its lifeline.
BYD is already eyeing the Ford plant in Saarlouis, while Leapmotor is interested in the Eisenach site.
The German industrial landscape is undergoing profound change, even if certain rumors, such as the alleged takeover of the Audi factory in Brussels by Nio, have proven to be unfounded.
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Source: www.frandroid.com
