Volkswagen Plans to Phase Out SEAT by End of 2029, Focus on Cupra

Volkswagen Group’s Management Board plans to gradually phase out the Spanish car brand SEAT from the market over the coming years, with operations to cease no later than the end of 2029. SEAT has already been excluded from Volkswagen Group’s “Way to 2030” strategic vision. According to the resolution, continuing to operate SEAT in its current form would consume additional resources, and priority should instead be given to the strategic development of the CUPRA brand group. This move aims to reduce business complexity and investment pressure on the core brand portfolio. Volkswagen’s Supervisory Board held a meeting on September 6 to vote on the resolution and discuss the company’s next strategic direction. The agenda also included the long-term future of four German plants and whether to cut tens of thousands of jobs globally. A Volkswagen spokesperson declined to comment on internal documents, stating that such matters require discussion and approval by the relevant bodies. CEO Oliver Blume hopes that cost-cutting measures will help address challenges including competition from Chinese automakers in the European market, Volkswagen’s difficulties in China, and U.S. tariff policies. Employee representatives and the government of Germany’s Lower Saxony state have clearly opposed closing plants in Zwickau, Emden, Hanover, and Neckarsulm. Employee representatives have already prepared counter-proposals for submission to the Supervisory Board.