The changes affect up to 968 Maserati line workers at the plant, which is owned by carmaker Stellantis, and are due to a transition period for new models.

Such contracts are introduced in Italy when production falls and mean reduced wages in exchange for part-time work.

Luigi Paone, general secretary of the Uilm union in Turin, said “the situation is becoming increasingly difficult for car workers” in the city.

Stellantis confirmed the plans to Maserati employees. The company has already scaled back operations in Mirafiori since February due to weak demand for its small electric Fiat 500 car.