Volkswagen is to restart production of its cars in Zwickau and in Bratislava on April 20 after a 5-week break to protect its workers from contracting and spreading the coronavirus. The company says it’s implemented a 100-point health protection plan that should set the standard for the entire industry. In Zwickau, the company will be assembling its first pure electric mode, the ID 3 and beginning deliveries to customers by the summer. The company’s management confirmed that its other plants in Europe and the United States would return to production the following week. A gradual loosening of restrictions on freedom of movement is occuring across the continent, a trend that VW said made the resumption of production possible. VW brand manager Ralf Brandstatter said that the company has reconstructed its supply chains that fell apart during the height of the pandemic, leading to the decision to halt production in March. Workers will have to wear face masks, follow stricter hygienic procedures and their temperatures will be taken regularly.
