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The Volkswagen Group’s extensive brand portfolio could soon experience significant restructuring, according to a recent report from RideApart. The publication indicates that the German automotive giant may be preparing to streamline its operations, which could include selling its motorcycle subsidiary, Ducati.

In case you weren’t aware, Ducati has been part of the Volkswagen Group for several years. Now, it seems that status might be under review.

Responding to RideApart’s inquiry about whether Volkswagen Group is seeking a buyer for Ducati, a company spokesperson issued the following statement, with emphasis on the key section: “The entire [Volkswagen] Group—including brands and subsidiaries—must undergo a profound transformation. Over recent months, the Executive Board has worked intensively on a future plan for the company’s realignment. The objective is to make the organisation more streamlined and efficient while consistently leveraging technological synergy potential. This particularly applies to decision-making processes and structures—especially in the development and integration of new technologies, as well as in shaping the model portfolio for our customers.”

Notably, the statement stops short of denying that Ducati could be up for sale. If Volkswagen decides to divest the Italian motorcycle manufacturer, it would not be the first such move in recent times. Earlier this year, Porsche sold its stake in Bugatti Rimac. Additionally, reports from The Financial Times suggest that Lamborghini could transition from being a wholly-owned subsidiary into a publicly traded company. Volkswagen would retain ownership but could raise significant capital by selling shares.

Beyond potential changes in brand ownership, Volkswagen is reportedly preparing for large-scale workforce reductions and plant closures. German business publication Manager Magazin recently reported that as many as 100,000 jobs could be eliminated and up to four German factories might be shut down. This aligns with another section of the statement provided to RideApart, where Volkswagen acknowledged that major transformations are already underway.

“It is correct that the entire automotive industry and the Volkswagen Group are undergoing a profound transformation,” the spokesperson said. “The Executive Board has repeatedly stated that our current business model no longer functions effectively across all brands: developing cars in Germany, producing them in Europe, and exporting them globally.”

While the exact nature of these changes remains uncertain, it is evident that the Volkswagen Group is preparing for a substantial shift in strategy. In the coming years, the company could emerge looking very different from the Volkswagen Group we know today.