Bosch applies for short-time work in Salzgitter: chip crisis hits the auto industry!

Bosch applies for short-time work in Salzgitter: chip crisis hits the auto industry!

The German automotive industry is facing major challenges that could have dramatic consequences for employees. The automotive supplier Bosch announced on November 4, 2025 that it had applied for short-time work for its location in Salzgitter. Company spokespeople emphasize that everything is being done to minimize production restrictions and to protect employees as best as possible. There are currently around 1,400 employees working here, but how many of them will actually be affected by short-time work remains unclear. Bosch is also facing similar problems at a branch in Braga, Portugal.

The reason for these difficulties lies in the chip shortage from the Chinese-controlled manufacturer Nexperia, which is due to export bans. These were ordered by the Dutch government after it took control of the company. However, last weekend China announced that exports would be temporarily allowed again, but on the condition that companies must submit applications. It remains unclear who exactly will be supplied, which further increases the uncertainty for many companies. Deutschlandfunk reports that Bosch is already looking for alternative sources of supply to keep production running.

More companies in trouble

The chip shortage is not just an issue for Bosch. Other large suppliers are also affected. ZF Friedrichshafen is planning short-time work at several German locations and is currently negotiating with the works council; things could get serious, especially at the Schweinfurt location. The company has not yet submitted an official application to the Federal Employment Agency, but preparations are underway. Volkswagen is also monitoring the situation closely and is examining alternative procurement options. So far there have been reports that effects on production in German plants have not yet been reported. Nevertheless, many industry representatives agree: There is a lot to be done here and you have to be prepared to react flexibly. Tagesschau informs that Volkswagen is following the situation closely.

The roots of this problem go back to October, when China temporarily banned the export of chips from the manufacturer Nexperia due to trade disputes and security concerns. With the Chinese's recent announcement that they would allow these exports again under certain conditions, there is a hint of hope. However, it remains uncertain who will actually benefit from this exemption. For example, Aumovio, a supplier from Continental, has already positioned itself as one of the first applicants, but whether the approvals will actually be granted remains uncertain.

The entire industry is under high tension these days and is watching the developments with great interest. How the situation will develop in the coming weeks remains to be seen. However, one thing is clear: the lack of semiconductors and the associated bottlenecks are putting an end to old-fashioned solutions and requiring a certain degree of creativity and speed from everyone involved. A good hand is more in demand than ever.