On Friday, 20 March, Angelo Moro (University of Modena and Reggio Emilia) presented his doctoral research on the transformation of work and industrial relations in the context of electrification in the European automotive industry.

The presentation critically revisited the “just transition” narrative and introduced the concept of “green restructuring” to analyse how the shift to battery electric vehicle production is embedded in longer-term strategies of cost reduction, workforce rationalisation and organisational streamlining.

Based on comparative fieldwork in French and Italian automotive plants, the research showed how electrification accelerates permanent restructuring processes, intensifies work through understaffing and digital performance control, and reshapes collective bargaining dynamics. Electrification may function as a strategic lever in industrial relations, influencing union strategies and negotiations.

The discussion highlighted important differences across national employment-relations frameworks and corporate strategies, underlining the uneven social consequences of the green transition in Europe’s automotive core.

Many thanks to all participants for their insightful questions and stimulating debate.

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