By Jessica Sier

Daimler AG said Thursday that it will introduce short-time work for part of its staff in Germany in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

The measure, which sees workers' hours reduced while pay is partially covered by the government, will initially run from April 6 until April 17, the German car maker said.

Employees who work in passenger cars, vans and commercial vehicle plants will be affected, while staff working in necessary functions and strategic projects are excluded.

"This is a proactive decision to move the company to prepare for temporarily lower demand and increase financial strength," said Daimler.

While Daimler's production facilities across Europe remain suspended, the company began ramping up production in China as its factories came back online earlier in the week.

Write to Jessica Sier at jessica.sier@wsj.com

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

March 26, 2020 07:03 ET (11:03 GMT)