Posted by Lorenzo at 5:15 pm
Text from Volkswagen AG.Wolfsburg, 28 April 2006 - Volkswagen AG reported clear growth in deliveries, sales and profit in the first quarter of 2006 compared with the prior-year period. Deliveries to customers rose by 15.1 percent compared with the first quarter of 2005 to 1.361 million vehicles. Sales revenue grew 21.4 percent to €25.3 billion. Operating profit before special items increased 55.1 percent to €726 million. “This performance is a further step in the right direction for the Group,” commented the Volkswagen AG Member of the board of Management, Finance, Hans Dieter Pötsch, on Friday. “At first sight, double-digit growth in deliveries to customers is encouraging. But this will not continue during the remainder of the year as it is based on weak first quarter figures for 2005.”
In the first quarter of this year, the Volkswagen brand group reported a positive operating profit of €134 million, €187 million higher than the negative figure for the previous year. Deliveries to customers ran at 927,000 vehicles, an increase of 16.1 percent over the prior-year period. Key factors were full availability of the Passat, Jetta and Golf Plus and sales successes at Skoda in the first quarter of 2006.
Development of the Audi brand group remained very positive. At €318 million, operating profit in the first quarter of 2006 was 5 percent up on the prior-year period, primarily as a result of a pronounced rise in deliveries to Audi brand group customers. This figure rose by 13.4 percent to 334,000 vehicles. Brand group operating Profit was affected by the continuing unsatisfactory earnings situation at SEAT.
The Commercial Vehicles business line reported an operating profit of €36 million, an improvement of €75 million over the prior-year period. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles delivered 99,000 vehicles to customers, representing an increase of 11.4 percent.
The Financial Services Division generated an operating profit of €237 million, slightly up on the prior-year period, and again made a significant contribution to group profit.
According to Pötsch, the increase in sales volume was driven by the large number of new models. “Revenue per vehicle has risen, while at the same time sales and marketing costs per vehicle have fallen. That clearly shows we have not bought our stronger position in the markets but have focussed our investment on sales concepts and finely-tuned financial services throughout the automotive value chain.”
Pötsch emphasized that key automobile markets had started the year with a positive underlying trend, but that general economic conditions continued to present not inconsiderable risks for automotive demand. According to Pötsch: “We expect our market position in the USA will continue to recover with the new models. In Western Europe, our deliveries to customers will also be up on the previous year’s level as all brands are offering new volume models. In China, South America and South Africa, we are also assuming a moderate increase in volumes. Overall, then, we expect slight growth in worldwide deliveries to customers in 2006.”
Pötsch reaffirmed that 2006 operating profit before special items would improve over the previous year. Furthermore, the Automotive Division was expected to report a positive net cash flow and a further improvement in net liquidity in 2006.
Looking at the continuing unsatisfactory return on investment, Pötsch commented: “These quarterly results show that the measures we are implementing under our cost-cutting and performance enhancement programs are taking effect. But the return on investment is still well below target. We must continue to work hard at restructuring, particularly regarding the core Volkswagen brand.”
Posted by Lorenzo at 5:09 pm
Text and photo from Volkswagen AG.
250,000 Touaregs celebratedBRATISLAVA / WOLFSBURG - Volkswagen Slovakia, a.s. in Bratislava has produced the two hundred fifty thousandth Touareg. The vehicle is a reflex-silver metallic Touareg with a 5 litre, V10 TDI engine producing 250 kW of power.
“With its intricate four-wheel drive technology, the Touareg stands for driving safety both on and off the road," said Thomas Schmall, Chairman of the Board of Volkswagen Slovakia, a.s., as the vehicle rolled off the production line. The numerous awards which the well-appointed SUV has received in the past months back up this claim.
Volkswagen Slovakia, a.s. has been building the Touareg since 2002 in Bratislava, which is the only production site for this vehicle.
Volkswagen in Bratislava and Martin
Volkswagen Slovakia, a.s. produces at two locations, Bratislava and Martin. Vehicles including the Touareg, the Audi Q7 and the Polo, as well as transmissions, are built in Bratislava. In 2005 about 218,000 vehicles and 370,000 transmissions were produced. The factory in Martin manufactures components exclusively.
Posted by Lorenzo at 5:03 pm
Text and photo from Volkswagen AG.
14 million Passat producedEmden/Wolfsburg, 27 April 2006 - Volkswagen in Emden today produced the 14 millionth Passat worldwide. The model is one of the most popular mid-range cars and currently the most successful vehicle in its class in Germany.
“The Passat guarantees safety, quality and economy“, said Plant Manager Siegfried Fiebig as the vehicle left the production line. This is confirmed by numerous accolades from experts, journalists and customers who have put the car through its paces in recent months. The anniversary vehicle is a reflex silver 103 kW (140 bp) Passat Variant Highline 4-Motion.
Worldwide, Volkswagen currently produces 2,900 vehicles from various Passat series every working day at the plants in Emden, Zwickau/Mosel, Shanghai (China) and Anchieta (Brazil).
Last year, Europe’s leading automaker delivered some 600,000 Passat to customers all over the world. The main markets in Europe include Germany, UK, France, Spain and Italy. The main sales areas for the Passat outside Europe are Asia and the USA.
Volkswagen in Emden
The Volkswagen Emden plant produces the Passat Limousine and is the only plant to produce the Passat Variant. 2005 was the year of the new Passat (6th generation) ramp up. Some 216,400 vehicles left the assembly lines in Emden in 2005.
Europe’s most modern press shop has been in operation in Emden since 2001. Two vacuum transfer presses, each designed for a total force of 73,000 kilonewtons, can produce about 20,000 parts per day.
At the end of December 2005, about 8,800 people were employed at the plant.
Posted by Lorenzo at 4:20 pm
Text from Auto Express.The sensational pictures in this week's mag show how the conservative look of the current Golf is enhanced by several dramatic styling cues. Aggression is key to the new front end, with headlights angled in towards a GTI-style honeycomb grille. In profile, the VW's waistline will become more pronounced, while the rear styling is inspired by the Concept A sports SUV, which debuted at March's Geneva Motor Show. The aim is to create a similar unmistakable shape to that of the original MkI Golf of the Seventies, while also incorporating a more upmarket Audi-style look.
The current car's basic platform will be carried over, but it will be tweaked to allow VW to employ the latest manufacturing techniques. As a result, the Golf should be cheaper to produce for the firm. Few who have driven the current Golf will question the improvement over its predecessor, but it hasn't been the sales hit in Europe that bosses hoped.
To increase the family hatch's showroom appeal, the MkVI will get a new dashboard which is expected to look more adventurous than the MkV's.
A top priority will be to incorporate new technology, with a dedicated dock for MP3 players in the armrest and provision for the latest wireless electronic gadgets. Under the bonnet, the current FSI petrol and TDI diesel powerplants will carry over, while the firm's supercharged and turbocharged TSI system will be applied to more engines.
The first TSI was a 1.4-litre unit, but larger capacity motors are set to employ the same set-up - a 2.0-litre version could even power the next Golf GTI. However, before the MkVI is even introduced, performance fans look set to be treated to a powerful flagship MkV.
A revised Golf Plus will also be available, while the range will grow to include the Cross-Golf 4x4. And designers are also rumoured to be considering a soft-top version, which will offer a cheaper alternative to the Eos coupé-cabrio.
Posted by Lorenzo at 4:15 pm
Text from Auto ExpressWhile VW is working on a successor for the MkV Golf, its engineers haven't finished with the current machine.
Test drivers are evaluating a final flagship for the hatchback range, badged the R36. Powered by the 3.6-litre V6 that debuted in the Passat, the car will offer between 280 and 300bhp. Due on sale early next year, it will hit the road 12 months ahead of the March 2008 debut of the new-look Golf. Prices are still being kept under wraps, although it's expected the newcomer will cost at least £1,500 more than the current R32, weighing in at £26,000.
The model is based on the four-wheel-drive R32, but the increased performance means changes will be made to the suspension and brakes. Extra cooling will also be required to feed cold air to the bigger engine. New 19-inch alloys, inspired by the Lamborghini Gallardo's rims, will be available, too.
Thanks to the revised suspension settings and larger wheels, the car will be more driver-focused and less refined than the R32, which was praised for its ability to cover ground quickly, but criticised for its lack of character. With an additional 50bhp, the new car is expected to be able to sprint from 0-60mph in only 6.0 seconds, while the maximum speed will be limited to 155mph. However, in-gear performance is likely to give the R36 its greatest appeal, although the engineers' biggest challenge will be retaining the light, direct steering and supple ride of the brilliant Golf GTI.
Posted by Lorenzo at 6:17 pm
© 2006 The VW Gazette. Photos courtesy of Autobild
The German website Autobild has acquired a few shots of the rumored sixth generation Golf sporting heavy camouflage. Over the past few months, many have predicted that Volkswagen may expedite the
release of the Mk.VI Golf due to concerns that the current generation Golf is too expensive to build. Whatever the reason, we should expect the sixth generation Golf in 2008, this considering the Golf has yet to be fully launched in the US. This means that we may hear something official from Volkswagen about the sixth generation Golf just as the North American Rabbits complete their first year in the market. Folks, we may be witnessing the shortest product cycle ever. If a 2008 European introduction or launch can be expected, then there may be a new Rabbit coming over in just three to four years.
Based on the images, the Golf does indeed get a new body. The roof is more noticably sloped, especially in the front windshield as compared to the current Golf. Although not seen with the camouflage in place, the new body will have a distinctive edge sweeping across the body and peaking just above the door handles. The new Golf will also get more prominent bumpers, as well as a different grille from the the current Golf. Also, the taillights will get an LED upgrade.
Posted by Lorenzo at 6:05 pm
Text from Bloomberg.comApril 20 (Bloomberg) -- Volkswagen AG's supervisory board will discuss renewing Chief Executive Officer Bernd Pischetsrieder's contract at its next meeting, after delaying a decision on the matter at its two-day meeting ending today.
``We focused on strategic issue at this meeting,'' Pischetsrieder said at a press conference today at the carmaker's headquarters in Wolfsburg, Germany.
Supervisory Board Chairman Ferdinand Piech in a Wall Street Journal interview March 1 set off a public debate over Pischetsrieder's contract renewal by saying the matter was an ``open issue'' as union representatives seemed to be against it. Pischetsrieder said the next day he would likely lose his job if labor representatives, who have half the supervisory board seats, didn't support him.
Pischetsrieder, 58, has been at odds with unions over efforts to cut labor and production costs. He threatened on Feb. 10 to eliminate as many as 20,000 jobs, or 20 percent of the company's western German workforce, as part of a plan to more than quadruple pretax profit to 5.1 billion euros ($6.3 billion) by 2008. Volkswagen is also looking closing parts of German plants, which lost ``hundreds of millions of euros'' last year.
The current five-year contract expires next April. It's common for German companies to decide on extensions well in advance.
Posted by Lorenzo at 5:58 pm
Text from CNW Group.AJAX, ON, April 20 /CNW/ - Volkswagen Canada is happy to announce the arrival of the 2007 Touareg at a Volkswagen dealership near you. The 2007 Touareg V6, with a new and more powerful standard engine, is the first one to arrive. This 3.6L 6 cylinder powerplant is equipped with FSI direct fuel injection and develops 276hp and 266 ft-lbs. of torque. In comparison, The 2006 Touareg V6 offered 240hp and 229ft-lbs of torque.
Following this summer is the 2007 V8 Touareg, which also benefits from the FSI direct fuel injection technology, gets an increase in power to 350hp and 325ft-lbs of torque. The 2006 Touareg V8 developed 310hp and 302ft-lbs of torque. A 6-speed automatic transmission and 4XMotion all-wheel drive remain standard with both engines..
As usual, the Touareg will be equipped with a host of standard safety features such as front side thorax and curtain airbags, 4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock (ABS), Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR), and Electronic Stability Programme (ESP). Moreover, the Touareg V6 is also equipped standard with such luxury items as a power sunroof, 17 inch alloy wheels, trip computer, rain-sensing wipers, self-dimming interior rearview mirror, Homelink(R), heated front seats, fog lights, leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift knob, as well as genuine wood dashboard trim.
The V8 models also includes standard leather seating surfaces, power front seats with driver's side memory, heated steering wheel and rear seats, bi-xenon headlights with washers, and 18 inch alloy wheels. Optional equipment on both V6 and V8 models include a DVD Navigation system, 4-corner air suspension, electronic parking assist, and much more.
The 2007 Touareg V6 MSRP starts at $51,525, which still represents the most affordable mid-size German-engineered SUV in the market.
Brimming with a plethora of standard equipment, safety features, and with
more power, the 2007 Touareg shines, now more than ever, as an undeniable
contender in the luxury SUV market
Posted by Lorenzo at 4:32 pm
Text from Volkswagen of America. Image courtesy of The Car Lounge.
NEW YORK CITY – At the New York International Auto Show, Volkswagen of America, Inc., will feature a Passat equipped with an appearance package inspired by the Passat R GT that was shown at the Specialty Equipment Market Association’s (SEMA) annual exhibition in November 2005. Although the vehicle was a concept, rave reviews from fans prompted Volkswagen to offer the package as an option on new Passats.
The appearance package creates a racy and aggressive look for the Passat with front and rear skirts with color contrasting elements, a honeycomb-designed grille, side sill kit, a harmonically integrated tailgate lip, oval-shaped tail pipe trim and 18-inch titanium colored alloy wheels, wrapped with 235/45R18 high-performance summer Pirelli tires. The vehicle’s stance is also lowered with the addition of performance lowering springs. The aerodynamic package improves the car's downward force on the road.
The Passat R GT concept and appearance package are the result of Volkswagen’s Moonraker project, a team of employees whose mission is to generate vehicles and options specifically designed for the unique trends in the U.S. marketplace.
The Passat aerodynamic appearance package will be available as an option, installed at the port of delivery, for $4,500 starting this fall. Customers will also be able to purchase the components a la carte as each of the pieces will be available for sale individually at all Volkswagen Dealerships.
Volkswagen will display a packaged Passat at the North Concourse of the Javits Center during the New York Auto Show, April 12-23.
Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world’s largest producers of passenger cars and Europe’s largest automaker. Volkswagen sells the Rabbit, New Beetle, Jetta, Passat, Touareg and Phaeton through more than 600 independent U.S. dealers.
Posted by Lorenzo at 5:32 pm
Text and photos from Volkswagen of America.
AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- In a surprise move, Volkswagen of America, Inc. announced today that its all-new fifth generation Golf, which debuted at the 2006 Chicago Auto Show, is going back to its roots with the original Rabbit nameplate for the U.S. and Canadian markets. The Rabbit will hop into the market in early summer, after its official introduction at the New York International Auto Show on Wednesday, April 12, 2006, at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center.
“The Rabbit was always exclusive to the U.S. and Canadian markets; while the rest of the world had the Golf, we had the iconic Rabbit,” said Volkswagen’s Director of Brand Innovation, Kerri Martin. “The reintroduction of the Rabbit represents Volkswagen’s commitment to this market and is a nod to the passionate North American enthusiasts who have an emotional connection with the Rabbit name.”
“Volkswagen customers want a relationship with their cars. Names like The Thing, Beetle, Fox, and Rabbit support this,” Martin added.
The Rabbit goes on sale this summer in both two and four-door versions, with pricing starting at $14,990 for the two-door. Standard features include an advanced ABS braking system, traction control, active front head restraints, front side airbags, air conditioning and anti-theft alarm system with remote locking. Always known for its value, this latest Rabbit is no exception, offering a high level of standard features and equipment at an attractive starting price.
The Rabbit was the first Volkswagen produced in the United States and its appeal grew rapidly, with sales of over 1.3 million in its 10-year lifespan. The Rabbit’s popularity can be credited to the wide array of standard features it offered at an attractive price. The 2006 Rabbit promises a return to the high-value, iconic status of the original.
“The Rabbit’s return to Volkswagen’s family is not an attempt to recreate the original car; today’s Rabbit is manufactured at our Wolfsburg production facility alongside the all-new GTI," Martin said.
The Rabbit, or Golf as it is well known throughout the rest of the world, is the world’s best-seller with over 25 million cars sold over five generations. This latest generation has already won more than 25 awards in more than sixteen countries. And, yesterday, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) announced that the 2006 Rabbit four-door received the Top Safety Pick, Silver award, based on the Institute’s frontal offset, side impact, and rear crash protection ratings.
Martin adds, “Even the name ‘Rabbit’ dramatizes the enhanced performance, playing off the car’s clever design, efficient size, agility and nimbleness. The Rabbit is back.”
The 2006 Rabbit benefits from its laser-welding production process, class-leading fit and finish, heightened body strength, crash protection, driving dynamics, and reduced interior noise. Drivers of the Rabbit will benefit from its fully independent suspension system that uses a multi-link rear and optimized front axle, and will enjoy the new optional six-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic® (five-speed manual standard). A new powerful engine with a larger displacement of 2.5 liters and five-cylinders generates 150 horsepower.
Also among the most impressive new driving advancements are a standard electro-mechanical steering system, and an optional advanced Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP). The Rabbit also promises more interior room than ever with a large rear hatch opening. Legroom has also increased in this new version.
For added assurance, the Rabbit will come with 24-hour Roadside Assistance for four years with unlimited mileage and new vehicle warranties including:
•Five-year/60,000 mile (whichever occurs first) Powertrain Limited Warranty
•Four-year/50,000 mile (whichever occurs first) New Vehicle
•Limited Warranty 12 year unlimited mileage Limited Warranty against corrosion perforation.
Posted by Lorenzo at 3:57 pm
Text from Volkswagen of America.NEW YORK CITY – Volkswagen of America, Inc. will take its national Force of Good tour to the next level during the New York International Auto Show. In the latest phase of the Force of Good project, which has been using New Beetles to carry out random acts of kindness across the country, a troop of 22 New Beetles and Touaregs will pair with senior centers and meal service organizations to deliver more than 13,000 meals to homebound seniors in New York City in the coming days.
From April 7 -17, Volkswagen will work with Citymeals-on-Wheels staff and volunteers to deliver nearly 1,700 meals each day. Additionally, Volkswagen has donated two Touaregs that Citymeals-on-Wheels will continue to utilize to feed New York’s needy seniors through August.
“The Force of Good tour celebrates the kindness and generosity of Volkswagen owners from coast-to-coast,” said Heidi Korte, brand promotions manager, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “Individually, Volkswagen owners make significant contributions to their communities. The Force of Good tour was created to build on such charitable giving. It represents the collective goodwill of all Volkswagen owners.”
Since November, New Beetles have been spreading good cheer across the country by handing out free coffee to commuters stuck in traffic, maps to city tourists and visitors, feeding parking meters and paying tolls. The Force of Good tour recently teamed up with Habitat for Humanity in San Francisco and the Suite Dreams project in Detroit, where a young cancer patient was presented with a newly decorated bedroom.
“We are excited about this opportunity to partner with Volkswagen,” said Marcia Stein, Executive Director of Citymeals-on-Wheels. “Our needs within the community continue to increase and the Force of Good Tour is a fun way to help draw attention and additional support to Citymeals-on-Wheels.”
Video footage showing the Force of Good tour in action will be shown at Volkswagen’s booth at the New York International Auto Show, and online at www.vwpodcast.com, starting Wednesday, April 12, 2006. During the show, Volkswagen will donate $1 to Citymeals-on-Wheels every time someone subscribes to a podcast from vwpodcast.com or the VW Music Bar, up to $1,000 each day. The podcast content includes music from local emerging NYC artists and bands such as My Better Half, Moto Star, The Mugs and many more. Also featured on the podcasts are VW commercials and videos, auto show walking tour videos, and a demonstration on how to make the "VDUB Representin'" hand sign, as seen in GTI commercials.
Volkswagen expects donations from the downloads to reach the $12,000 range. At $5 per meal, the initiative could underwrite as many as 2,400 meals for the hungry.
“From our commercials to our streaming radio station, radiovw.com, Volkswagen has a history of providing high-profile forums for largely unknown artists,” said Korte. “Force of Good is all about helping those who are struggling or in need of a helping hand. We’re happy to lend that hand in as many ways as possible.”
The VW Music Bar will be located at the Volkswagen booth in the South Concourse of the Javits Center during the New York International Auto Show April 12-23.
Visit www.vw.com or www.vwpodcast.com for more information.
Founded in 1981, Citymeals-on-Wheels is a not-for-profit organization that raises private funds to prepare and deliver weekend, holiday and emergency meals to elderly shut-ins throughout New York City. Over the course of the year, Citymeals will provide 2.2 million meals to nearly 17,000 seniors in New York City. One hundred-percent of all private donations made to Citymeals goes toward hand-delivered meals for homebound seniors. For more information, visit www.citymeals.org.
Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world’s largest producers of passenger cars and Europe’s largest automaker. Volkswagen sells the Golf, New Beetle, Jetta, Passat, Touareg and Phaeton through more than 600 independent U.S. dealers.
Posted by Lorenzo at 10:12 pm
Text from Forbes. SHANGHAI (AFX) - Volkswagen AG said it expects its China operations to return to profitability this year on improved marketing and the launch of new models.
Volkswagen China posted an operating loss of 119 mln eur in 2005 after a profit of 222 mln eur in 2004.
'This year, we are doing better in terms of volumes and financial (results)... we are going to get a profit.' Weiming Soh, executive vice president of sales and marketing of Volkswagen Group China said at a media briefing in Shanghai.
Soh also holds the position of vice president in charge of sales and marketing at FAW-Volkswagen, one of Volkswagen's two joint ventures in China.
Soh did not give a specific forecast.
Volkswagen China said earlier this month that sales totaled 164,339 units in the first quarter, up almost 40 pct from a year earlier.
Soh said Volkswagen China is undertaking efforts to improve its customer segmentation, strengthen dealer training and tie production more closely to demand.
Volkswagen China today launched the Sagitar, a high-end sedan aimed at young buyers.
It will release a new version of the Bora in July and plans to release 10-12 new models, including the Sagitar, up to 2009, according to Soh
In March, Volkswagen China had a market share of 17.57 pct, including imported cars, Soh said.
'If we continue to do what we are doing, we hope to defend what we have right now,' he said.
Soh said in the first quarter, Volkswagen-branded cars took the top market share at 15.6 pct, followed closely by Honda and Buick.
'For the beginning of this year, we started with a very healthy inventory of less than one and a half months...and the structure of our inventory is very healthy,' Soh added.
At the end March, inventory stood at about 70,000 units, with one-third held by Volkswagen China and two-thirds with dealers, he said.
Posted by Lorenzo at 6:38 pm
Text from Volkswagen AG.Almost 800,000 vehicles delivered in three monthsWOLFSBURG, Germany - The Volkswagen brand achieved worldwide record sales in the first quarter of 2006. 795,000 vehicles were delivered to customers during the first three months of the year.
This is the highest start-of-year figure in the history of the company and represents a rise of some 108,000 vehicles or 15.7 percent compared with the prior-year period. Dr. Michael Kern, Board Member for Sales and Marketing at the Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand, said: “Our new products are now realizing their full potential on the markets. Additionally, improvements in sales structures independent of the models themselves are having an effect.”
In March alone, Volkswagen Passenger Cars sold 330,000 vehicles to customers worldwide. This represents a rise of 16.3 percent compared with the same month in 2005. During the first three months of this year, a total of 795,000 vehicles were delivered to customers worldwide, 15.7 percent higher than the first quarter of 2005. According to Kern: “The Passat has made an impressive mark on the market. And there will be other models to follow this year, first and foremost the Eos, which will be launched on the German market in May.”
Volkswagen achieved noticeable growth in all regions during the first quarter. Growth was strongest in China, where deliveries increased by 32.2 percent to 144,800 vehicles, and the USA, where sales totaled 53,300 units (plus 24.3 percent). In South Africa, sales rose by 22.8 percent to 19,600 units, while sales in South America rose by 10.1 percent to 108,700 vehicles.
Volkswagen Passenger Cars also reported a noticeable increase in Western and Central Europe (excluding Germany), where deliveries to customers rose by 15.3 percent to 259,000 units. In Germany, 125,200 customers opted for a Volkswagen during the first three months of the year, 8.9 percent more than during the prior-year period. In March alone, 52,800 new Volkswagen were delivered to customers in Germany, 9.8 percent up on March 2005. Kern commented: “As a result, our market share has risen to over 19 percent and we have significantly extended our leading position compared with last year.”
The Golf was the main motor for the delivery record. 288,000 customers chose the Golf, Golf Plus, Golf Variant and Jetta, 11 percent up on the prior-year period. The Passat, both the saloon and estate versions, was the second largest contributor, with a total of 140,000 units delivered to customers during the first quarter of the year.
Posted by Lorenzo at 6:31 pm
Text from The Age.Volkswagen Group Australia has moved to prevent the popular Golf GTI becoming a victim of its own success.
The company announced at the recent Passat launch that its backlog of some 800 hot hatch customers will be cleared by June, following an agreement with the factory to increase production for Australia.
"We've had an ongoing drama with the Golf GTI," said VGA managing director Jutta Dierks.
"Customers had to wait months - we couldn't even really say when they would get their car and we are still sitting on 800 orders which are not scheduled to go into production.
"But as we speak today, we have an agreement with headquarters that all these 800 cars are going into production as quickly as possible. Some of them will go into production today, but the last cars will be produced by the end of June and will be here eight weeks later."
Ms Dierks said the waiting time for VW's new Golf GTI - which had been as long as six months - would be dramatically cut as a result, following flak from customers.
"It's spoken a bit for the brand that people waited so long for the car. But I think we should not over-extend the patience of our customers. It has stretched the friendship. There has been a lot of heat from customers.
"I can tell you it was a major drama for us. It was not easy - it took some time to work it out. We want to sell them, to increase our market share and to see them on the streets."
Ms Dierks added that VGA has also reached agreement with the factory to increase production throughout July and beyond, to ensure that Golf GTI supplies remain consistent thereafter.
"If we solve one order bank problem we don't want to build up a new order bank, so we actually have more production through July and the coming months, which is another agreement we're quite happy about.
"So every single customers that comes in today ... his car is going into the production of July. Even customers who come later still have a chance to have their cars produced in July, which means we're more or less back to normal," she said.
Posted by Lorenzo at 6:49 pm
Text from CNW Group.AJAX, ON, April 3 /CNW/ - Volkswagen Canada sales totalled 2,906 new units for March 2006, compared with 2,540 units in March 2005, an increase of 14.4%. This total is comprised of:
136 New Beetles
499 Golf/GTIs
1,812 Jettas
401 Passats
57 Touaregs
1 Phaeton
Golf/GTI and Passat sales continued to do well in March 2006, compared with March 2005. Golf/GTI sales increased by 66.9%, while Passat sales climbed by 26.5%. New Beetle Coupe sales surged by 80.6%, contributing to a total New Beetle sales increase of 63.9% overall. GTI and Passat sales should continue to climb in April with the recent success of the all-new GTI and Passat Wagon.
February Sales Results
Posted by Lorenzo at 6:09 pm
Text from Volkswagen of America.New models contribute significantly to increase of 23.8 percentAUBURN HILLS, Mich. – Volkswagen of America, Inc. today reported March sales of 20,730 units, a 23.8 percent increase over prior year sales.
The new Jetta sedan continues to be the volume car for Volkswagen, selling 9,587 cars, up 39.6 percent as compared to last year’s sales of 6,869. GTI sales posted its best month in over 20 years, selling 2,127 total units of which 2,073 were the all-new GTI, which launched just last month. Passat sedan also showed a considerable increase with sales of 3,946, an increase of 64.8 percent.
Year to date, Volkswagen sales are up 24.3 percent as compared to last year. Below is a breakdown of the model line for the Volkswagen brand for March, 2006:
click to enlarge
Posted by Lorenzo at 6:02 pm
Text and photos from Volkswagen AG.
Turbo engine delivering 110kW/150hp packs a powerful punch
Striking design picks up on characteristic elements from GTI traditionWolfsburg, 03 April 2006 - The new Polo GTI is about to be launched. Delivering 110kW/150hp, it is the most powerful Polo since the series was introduced over 30 years ago. The exterior and interior concept of this potent super mini is deliberately true to the legendary Golf GTI. The Polo GTI will be launched on the first markets this spring.
The GTI label is one of the most famous in the automobile world. The last Polo GTI made its debut in 1998. It delivered 125hp and reached a top speed of 205km/h. In the latest version, 150hp allows a top speed of exactly 216km/h. The other key data for the new Polo GTI is as follows:
0 to 100km/h in 8.2 seconds, a maximum torque of 220Nm (at 1,950rpm) and an average consumption of 7.8 litres. The tradition of sporty top of the range Polos is incidentally twenty years old: It began in 1986 with 115hp in the Polo G40.
Like the Golf GTI, the new Polo GTI also has a turbo-charged engine with intercooler. The GTI badge does, of course, demand the appropriate torque development. In the Polo GTI, a 1.8-litre five-valve four-cylinder provides powerful acceleration at low revs and top elasticity values. The Polo GTI needs just 7.5 seconds to jump from 80 to 120km/h in fourth gear.
The Polo GTI is a thoroughly sporty and safe car with impressive driving properties plus a special GTI exterior and interior. If we take the exterior, for example: At the front, this “little” GTI features the typical radiator grille styling of the “big” GTI – black, V-shaped and with an upper air intake in honeycomb mesh. The double headlights are also framed in black as are the standard fog lights in the outer air intakes. A very prominent roof spoiler (with integrated third brake light) has been placed above the tailgate providing ideal downforce on the rear axle. Further down you will notice the chrome twin exhaust tail pipes.
It is no secret that black, silver or red paintwork goes best with the GTI styling. The front and rear brake callipers on the mighty disc brakes are also red. The 16-inch alloy wheels in the style of the Golf GTI with their five U-shaped openings have the effect of a stroboscope. They even clearly display the callipers at high speed on the road. The tyre size is 205/45 R 16. The tyres reach deep inside the wheel arches. The sports chassis (with standard ESP) is 15 millimetres lower than the standard version. Black side skirting underlines the dynamic chassis configuration.
As is the tradition, the new Polo GTI features special sports seats with the typical checked “Interlagos” pattern. The sports steering wheel, gearstick knob and gaiter as well as the handbrake grip are leather. A metal-like surface enhances the look and feel of the centre console and panels around the side air vents in the cockpit. Features like red cross stitching inside the steering wheel and the red edges of the black seat belts, show the great attention to the finest of details. This also applies to the metal embossed shift pattern on the gearstick knob and to the aluminium pedals.
Fully-equipped GTI: Nothing has been sacrificed for the sake of sportiness in the Polo GTI. The controls are well-organised as usual, the quality is excellent, the cargo space is large (270 to 1,030 litres) and the rear bench is flexible (folding bench and backrest split 1/3 to 2/3). The proven body plus the front and side airbags ensure a reassuring level of passive safety — the front passenger airbag can be deactivated.
Posted by Lorenzo at 6:00 pm
Text from Volkswagen AG.Powerful twincharger with 103 kW and a new TDI with 125 kW
High performance, driving comfort and better fuel economyWolfsburg, 03 April 2006 - Volkswagen is expanding the engine range for the Touran. Now available: The 1.4 I TSI engine with 103 kW / 140 hp and the powerful 2.0 I TDI with 125 kW / 170 hp. The innovative twincharger-engine concept for better performance and fuel economy is a groundbreaking development for the future, which was first introduced on the Golf GT.
The principle behind the twincharger with its displacement of just
1390 ccm, is that the pulling power of the engine is reached even at low revs thus reducing fuel consumption. The FSI engine is twin-charged by a turbocharger and compressor and generates a peak torque of 220 Nm (1750-4000 rpm), with a consumption of only 7,4 l premium fuel (95 oct.) for 100 km.
When the car accelerates, the compressor delivers the necessary pulling power, while the turbocharger takes over at higher revs. The smooth torque curve allows for lazy gear changes yet the performance of the car is still sporty. Overtaking other vehicles on country roads becomes an ease.
The key technical element of the 2.0 I TDI with a maintenance-free diesel particulate filter, is the newly developed high-pressure piezo unit injector. The four-valve engine, which has a variable intake manifold to control swirl provides high performance and comfort and a low consumption of 5.6 I for 100 km.
Alongside high driving performance, a broad spectrum of safety features are included, such as six airbags and the Electronic Stabilisation Pro-gramme (ESP) including brake assist system. The flexible ergonomic seats provide comfort inside the vehicle and an interior height of 1.02 metres in the front, unique in this class of vehicle, allows for an extra special feeling of space.
Moreover the vehicle represents excellent value for money. Safe and comfortable driving pleasure is available with Touran 1.4 TSI Conceptline for € 22,590. The Trendline basic model costs € 23,925 and the Highline is priced at € 26,400.
The 2.0 I TDI starts at € 26,900, the Highline at € 29,375. Both models are also on sale with direct shift gearbox from € 28,550 and € 31,025 respectively.
Posted by Lorenzo at 5:59 pm
Text from Volkswagen AG.Wolfsburg, 03 April 2006 - Volkswagen in Salzgitter has now begun delivery of the 2.0 liter TDI engine to DaimlerChrysler in the USA.
The Chrysler Group assembly plant in Belvidere, Illinois (USA) has thus started production of the new Dodge Caliber model variant equipped with the Volkswagen 2.0 liter TDI engine. The vehicle will be available in Europe from this summer.
Some two years following the conclusion of the contract between DaimlerChrysler, Mitsubishi Motors and Volkswagen concerning delivery of TDI engines, the first Chrysler vehicle equipped with such an engine is now being launched.
The engines are produced at the Volkswagen plant in Salzgitter and have been specially adapted to DaimlerChrysler and Mitsubishi Motors specifications.
Posted by Lorenzo at 5:57 pm
Text from Volkswagen AG.New GT-line with its own trim and 125 kW / 170 hp available
Superb fuel economy: 5.9 (TDI) and 7.2 litres (TSI) per 100 kmWolfsburg, 30 March 2006 - New Golf GT is being launched with two equally powerful engines: either the innovative 1.4 I TSI or the 2.0 l TDI with diesel particulate filter as standard, each with 125 kW.
The 1.4 I TSI engine is a world first. The FSI engine is dual-charged through a combination of an exhaust gas turbocharger and a mechanical compressor (twincharger). This gives it the peak power of a 2.3 l engine, but with 20 percent lower fuel consumption at only 7.2 l per 100 km.
The compressor and turbocharger are connected in series. At low speeds the compressor provides the extra air necessary while the turbocharger cuts in at a higher torque. At higher rev speeds the compressor is no longer necessary and switches itself off automatically. This smooth transmission allows for lazy gear changes yet the performance of the car is still sporty, so that one can overtake other vehicles with ease, even at higher speeds.
In addition the GT is also offered with the 2.0 TDI-engine with newly developed piezo unit injectors. The high injection pressure of the four valve engine provides a superior road performance up to 220 km/h, low fuel consumption and particularly smooth running.
Like the Golf GTI the Golf GT also has a striking exterior. It is distinguished by a V shaped grill at the front in the vehicle colour, 17 inch light alloy wheels, visible twin tail pipes and GT lettering at the front and rear. The sporty appearance continues with the interior, with a three spoke leather steering wheel and special sports seats with a unique design.
The GT is the link between the Golf Sportline and the GTI, the price is also positioned between that of those two models. The basic model comes with a 1.4 I TSI engine as standard at € 22,500. The 2.0 l TDI is available from € 24,950 with a manual gearbox and from € 26,600 with a direct shift gearbox. The combination of the two innovative technologies from Volkswagen, TSI and double clutch gearbox DSG will be introduced to the market in May.
