Volkswagen suspended since yesterday (24) the activities related to the production of all units in the states of São Paulo and Paraná, due to the worsening of the covid-19 pandemic. The suspension will remain for 12 calendar days, until April 4.

The production activities of Volkswagen's factories take place in São Bernardo do Campo (SP), Taubaté (SP), São Carlos (SP) and São José dos Pinhais (PR). Administrative area employees will be working remotely. According to the company, the measure was taken in conjunction with local unions.

"With the increase in the number of cases of the pandemic and the increase in the occupancy rate of ICU beds in Brazilian states, the company adopts this measure in order to preserve the health of its employees and family members. In factories, only essential activities will be maintained ", Volkswagen informed in a note.

Mercedes-Benz 

Mercedes-Benz do Brasil said it will also stop production activities at its commercial vehicle factories in São Bernardo do Campo (SP) and Juiz de Fora (MG), starting on March 26, with a return scheduled for April 5. . The reason is also the worsening of the pandemic.

"Our aim, in line with the Metalworkers Union, is to contribute to reducing the circulation of people at this critical moment in the country, to manage the difficulty of supplying parts and components in the supply chain, in addition to meeting the anticipation of holidays by municipal authorities, "said the company.

As of April 5, Mercedes said it will continue restrictive measures to protect professionals, in addition to granting collective vacations to alternate groups of employees. With this, there will be a smaller production group maintaining the distancing protocols. According to the automaker, administrative employees will continue to work in a home office regime.