Bolloré: Production Halt of Bluebus Buses Under Consideration
The group presented to its employees a project aimed at ending the manufacturing of Bluebus electric buses in Ergué-Gabéric, as well as a reorganization of Blue Solutions' battery activities. Two information and consultation procedures with representative bodies of employees have been opened on these two aspects.
Bluebus: End of Production Considered After Nearly 700 Buses Deployed
Bolloré SE informed Bluebus employees on September 8, 2026 of a project to permanently halt production of its electric buses. Based in Ergué-Gabéric since 2011, the entity has seen nearly 700 of its six and twelve-meter electric buses deployed in France and Europe for major clients. According to the press release, slower-than-anticipated growth in the French market, intense competition, and sustained price pressure prevented Bluebus from reaching the size necessary to compete with other sector players. The company indicates that the conditions required for sustainable long-term manufacturing operations no longer exist.
Employment Protection Plan Potentially Affecting 74 Positions, Research and Development Offer
An information and consultation procedure has been initiated with employee representative bodies concerning an Employment Protection Plan (PSE). This project could affect 74 positions over a three-year period. A streamlined organization would be maintained to honor Bluebus commitments, particularly after-sales service and monitoring of vehicles in circulation. Furthermore, an offer from a European industrial company, long active in public transport, will be presented to employee representatives in the coming days. This company plans to acquire Bluebus's research and development activities, which would allow the transfer of 17 employment contracts and reduce the number of planned job cuts.
Blue Solutions: Reorganization Around Gen4 Battery
Blue Solutions, which is developing its fourth-generation solid battery technology (Gen4), is also affected by the challenges facing European battery and automotive sectors. The company proposes to rationalize its organization in order to advance its technology toward industrial scale alongside a strategic investor. An information and consultation procedure has been opened with employee representative bodies regarding an Employment Protection Plan. The proposed plan could affect 41 positions. Once the procedures are completed, the company will seek the necessary authorizations from the competent administrative authorities.
