Deteriorating auto sales are forcing Mercedes-Benz to eliminate a shift on one of the two production lines at its U.S. plant in Vance Alabama. Automotive News reports that beginning in January 2009, the German automaker will reduce production of the M-Class crossovers and GL-Class SUVs while the second line that assembles the M- and R-Class crossovers will not be affected from the production changes.

Mercedes-Benz has not given out any specific information concerning the number of vehicles that will be built from January and onwards at the Alabama plant. The company has also declined to release details on the number of employees that have accepted a voluntary job buyout that was necessary for the firm to reduce production without resolving to layoffs.

Via: Autonews (Sub. Req)