Electric Vehicle Startup Fisker Implements New Layoffs Amid Financial Challenges
ICARO Media Group
In a bid to navigate its ongoing financial challenges, electric vehicle (EV) startup Fisker has implemented another round of layoffs, affecting multiple teams within the company. The exact extent of the workforce reduction remains undisclosed as of now.
Reports from affected employees indicate that they suddenly lost access to their company email accounts, signaling the abruptness of the layoffs. Several employees took to social media platforms such as LinkedIn and Reddit to express their sentiments regarding the situation. One employee confirmed their departure stating, "I made it through many rounds of layoffs but this is the end."
The latest round of layoffs primarily impacted the User Experience/User Interface team, the Technical Training team, Human Resources, and Social Media, as disclosed by employees on Reddit. Additionally, teams such as IT, Purchasing, and Customer Relations were affected in a previous round of layoffs.
Fisker's financial struggles have been evident in recent months, resulting in production pauses alongside manufacturing partner Magna and multiple rounds of job cuts. The company has been facing difficulties in securing new investments, which has further exacerbated its current situation.
As part of its cost-cutting measures, Fisker has decided to halt direct vehicle sales to customers in states where it lacks dealership locations. Previously, customers in the United States could order vehicles directly from the company, but now they are met with a message stating, "Looks like there are no vehicles near you." This move aims to reduce operating expenses while the company negotiates a potential buyout deal.
In addition to changes in direct sales, Fisker recently announced the discontinuation of roadside assistance services for its U.S. customers, following a similar decision made for its European customers previously.
Despite the challenging circumstances, Fisker has made efforts to expand its sales network. The company recently added a new dealer partner in Denmark to strengthen its presence in Europe. In the United States, Fisker has also expanded its dealership locations to a total of 15, with three new additions.
Amidst the company's critical financial situation, Henrik Fisker, the CEO and founder, has largely remained silent. However, Fisker is set to participate in the Economic Times Auto Tech Summit on June 20-21, which provides an opportunity for him to address the challenges faced by the company.
As Fisker seeks further investment to avoid bankruptcy, industry experts warn that the startup is teetering on a financial knife edge and may not survive in the coming months or even weeks.
It remains to be seen how Fisker tackles these financial hurdles and whether they can successfully secure the investment needed for the company's future survival.