London (CNN Business) Fiat Chrysler (FCAU) is temporarily closing four plants in Italy as the novel coronavirus takes its toll on the world's eighth biggest economy. The move follows a decision by the Italian government to impose sweeping restrictions on travel and public gatherings as it tries to contain the worst outbreak of the coronavirus, or Covid-19, outside China. The closure of plants in Europe illustrates how the impact on the auto industry from coronavirus is going global. The pandemic has already resulted in extended factory closures and a steep drop in vehicle sales in China. A spokesperson for Fiat Chrysler said the plants affected in Italy will be closed for the rest of the week to "minimize the risk" of contagion among employees.

Source: CNN March 11, 2020 11:15 UTC