General Motors Cuts 500 Jobs at Oshawa Plant Amid Strategic Shift Away from EVs

[Company Update] General Motors announced it will cut approximately 500 positions at its Oshawa, Canada plant effective February 2.

Core Development: Elimination of Third Shift Leads to Direct Layoffs of 500

The midnight shift at the Oshawa plant has been completely eliminated, reverting operations to a two-shift schedule. Most affected employees were permanent staff assigned to this shift, and 500 workers will lose their jobs directly.

Key Figures: Total Impact Across Supply Chain Could Reach 1,200

In addition to the plant layoffs, upstream and downstream suppliers are expected to cut around 700 more positions, bringing the total employment impact to 1,200 people.

Strategic Context: Dual Pressures from Policy and EV Transition

Impacted by the 25% U.S. auto tariff and adjustments to Canada’s electric vehicle policies, General Motors is shifting its production line back from electric vehicles to internal combustion engine pickup trucks, resulting in reduced capacity needs. The union criticized the company for "succumbing to Trump" and neglecting the interests of local employees.