Audi May Trim Output in Germany

Volkswagen AG's Audi brand has begun a one-week production halt at its car plant Neckarsulm, Germany, in response to weaker demand, according to German newspaper reports.

Deteriorating car markets in Europe and China have begun to take a toll on Germany's luxury brands, which until recently seemed immune to the downturn. VW's Porsche unit told Reuters last month it would reduce product investment, trim output and delay at least one new model.

Two weeks ago Daimler AG lowered its 2012 outlook for the Mercedes-Benz Cars unit. News reports say the brand will alter shifts to cut production at its assembly plant in Sindelfingen, Germany.