All Press Releases
This section contains all current press releases on topics and news items concerning Volkswagen.
G7 labor and social ministers learn about the transformation to e-mobility at Volkswagen
Today, as part of the German G7 presidency, the labor and social ministers of the G7 nations visited the Volkswagen main plant in Wolfsburg to learn about the site’s shift to e-mobility, along with other topics. The ministers were welcomed by Gunnar Kilian, Chief Human Resources Officer of Volkswagen AG, and Thomas Schäfer, future CEO and current COO of the Volkswagen brand. The discussions focused on the role of Volkswagen in the successful transformation to a sustainable and software-based tech company while also keeping the needs of the employees in view. Following the workforces in Zwickau and Emden, the approximately 60,500 employees of Volkswagen AG in Wolfsburg will be prepared for e-mobility by means of training measures over the coming years.
Happy Birthday, Touareg! – Exclusive special-edition model for the 20th anniversary
Volkswagen is celebrating 20 years of the Touareg with the Touareg “EDITION 20”. This special-edition model will join the premium SUV model family from mid-June 2022 and features a particularly extensive range of exclusive equipment – including an extremely expressive exterior design and an elegant leather package in the interior. Since its market launch in 2002, the luxury SUV has become an out-and-out success. More than one million units of this innovative technology carrier have been sold worldwide up to the present day. The special-edition model is available to order now, with prices starting from 77,530 euros (for V6 TDI with 170 kW/231 PS).
Everything you need to know about the Women’s DFB-Pokal Final 2022
On May 28, 2022, the final of the Women's DFB-Pokal will take place in Cologne for the 13th time in a row. You can find the Volkswagen data folder for the game.
Volkswagen’s global production network for electric vehicles grows with the launch of a second German site in Emden
Volkswagen is pressing ahead with gearing its plants to electric mobility. Volkswagen is expanding its global production network for electric vehicles by starting to make the all-electric ID.4 in Emden. Emden is now the second site for electric vehicles in Germany following Zwickau and also joins the Chinese plants in Anting and Foshan. Chattanooga (ID.4) and Hanover will also commence production this year. As a result, Volkswagen is creating the conditions in 2022 for building 1.2 million all-electric vehicles a year based on the MEB in the future at its sites in Europe, the U.S. and China. Volkswagen has invested around one billion euros in converting the Emden plant with its 8,000 employees. Emden is thus the first high-tech site for electric mobility in Lower Saxony. The Volkswagen Group will invest a total of 21 billion euros in Lower Saxony up to 2026 and make the federal state Germany’s center for electric mobility.
Volkswagen joins forces with “Obi-Wan Kenobi” for the launch of the new all-electric ID. Buzz
Volkswagen is giving an even stronger emotional charge to its brand and lends further momentum to its global e-strategy. The company launches sales activities for its iconic van, the ID. Buzz with a stand-out collaboration with “Obi-Wan Kenobi”; the all-new limited Star Wars series coming to Disney+ May 27, 2022. The campaign launches with a customized advert made in collaboration with Lucasfilm and Industrial Light & Magic featuring the ID. Buzz and some familiar Star Wars characters as well as leading actor, Ewan McGregor, who will also serve as brand ambassador for Volkswagen.
Mission started: The management team of the new battery company is in place!
The Volkswagen Group has lined up its launch crew for the mission to quickly and comprehensively industrialize new battery technologies. A highly talented team led by Frank Blome will work from their base in Salzgitter to expand the rapidly growing battery business and turn Volkswagen into a global cell manufacturer. To this end, a six-member Executive Board has been appointed to manage the new independent European company (Société Européenne), an operation that will employ top international experts from the fields of technology, procurement, production and finance. The board will begin work on July 1 and oversee all activities along the battery value chain – from the procurement and processing of raw materials to the development of the Volkswagen unit cell and the management of the company's initial six gigafactories. This work will also include new business models involving second-life uses for vehicle batteries and closed-loop recycling of valuable raw materials. The company will be headquartered at the Salzgitter site, which serves as the Group's battery hub in Europe.
Volkswagen and Mahindra sign Partnering Agreement for MEB electric components in Chennai
Volkswagen and Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. (M&M) are exploring the use of MEB electric components for Mahindra’s new “Born Electric Platform”. Both parties announced today that they have signed a Partnering Agreement on 18th May to evaluate the scope of collaboration. Mahindra intends to equip its “Born Electric Platform” with MEB electric components such as electric motors, battery system components and battery cells. The Partnering Agreement evaluates the scope of collaboration – it indicates binding rules for the evaluation phase as well as the non-binding scope of supply. The binding supply agreement will be negotiated in a continued constructive and legally compliant way to conclude by the end of 2022.
The wait is finally over! – Start of ID. Buzz pre-sales
Pre-sales of the new ID. Buzz and ID. Buzz Cargo start in Germany and most European markets on this coming Friday, 20 May. The zero-emission all-rounder can be ordered from this date – whether as an electric bus for the family, leisure activities or business, or as a delivery vehicle for companies.
Everything you need to know about the DFB Cup Final: Volkswagen with the assist for the media
The men’s German DFB Cup Final will be held this Saturday, 21 May, with SC Freiburg and RB Leipzig going head-to-head. Kick-off is at 8 p.m. CEST at the Olympiastadion in Berlin. As official partner of the German Football Association (DFB), Volkswagen will, as in previous years, be providing sports journalists with an extensive data file packed full of facts and insights. This is now available to download at www.volkswagen-newsroom.de/en.
The new ID. Buzz and the ID. Buzz Cargo: Clean design along classic lines for modern-day mobility
An icon returns! With the ID. Buzz and the ID. Buzz Cargo, Volkswagen brings the T1’s DNA into the present – and the future. Like the first 1950 Bus, the new models are cleanly and functionally designed, while at the same time evoking a number of emotions. But how was that accomplished? Volkswagen designers provide exclusive insights into their work.
Volkswagen shareholders formally approve actions of Board of Management and Supervisory Board and adopt resolution on dividend for 2021
At the virtual Annual General Meeting of Volkswagen AG, the shareholders voted by a majority of 99.9982% percent to approve the recommendation of the Board of Management and the Supervisory Board to increase the dividend for fiscal year 2021 compared with the previous years to 7.50 EUR per ordinary share and 7.56 EUR per preferred share. Approximately 3.8 (2.4) billion EUR will therefore be distributed to shareholders for the last fiscal year. The resolution on the formal approval of the members of the Board of Management and the Supervisory Board who held office in fiscal year 2021 was passed.
The new ID.5 achieves highest score in the Euro NCAP driver assistance test
The latest ID.5 assistance technologies were rated "very good" and reached 4 out of 4 possible points - the highest possible score - in the Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme). The testers were impressed by the innovative systems of the all-electric ID.5 highlighting maximum comfort and an excellent level of assistance. With the "Driver Assistance Test", Euro NCAP has expanded its test scheme beyond the classic crash test and introduced a structured evaluation and classification system in the area of comfort and assistance systems. Aiming to give consumers a realistic insight into the performance of state of the art assistance systems.
CEO Herbert Diess at the Annual General Meeting: “Volkswagen delivered – financially and strategically”
The Volkswagen Group is making good progress with its transformation into a sustainable, software-centric mobility provider, despite a challenging environment. Speaking at the virtual Annual General Meeting, CEO Diess said: “We delivered in 2021. Backed by good crisis management, we are financially robust and have strengthened our resilience. At the same time, we have made major progress in implementing our NEW AUTO strategy. We will continue to forge ahead with our realignment in 2022, despite the geopolitical and economic challenges. Our teams are keen to change the world of mobility.”
Volkswagen Group to launch all-electric pick-up and rugged SUV in the United States
Volkswagen Group will launch an all-electric pick-up and rugged SUV in the United States. The decision of the Board of Management was confirmed today by the Supervisory Board of the Volkswagen Group.
Volkswagen Group and SEAT S.A. to mobilize 10 billion euros to electrify Spain
The Volkswagen Group and SEAT S.A. will mobilize 10 billion euros, together with their partners in the Future: Fast Forward project, in the event of a positive resolution of the PERTE VEC. This was announced today by Herbert Diess, CEO of the Volkswagen Group, who visited the Parc Sagunt II site, together with Pedro Sánchez, Prime Minister of Spain; Ximo Puig, President of the Valencian Generalitat; Wayne Griffiths, President of SEAT S.A.; and Thomas Schmall, Member of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG, Chief Technology Officer and Chairman of the Board of SEAT S.A.
Volkswagen Group bolsters expansion in global growth markets after strong Q1 results
Volkswagen Group posted strong financial results during the first quarter, despite a difficult global environment. The main drivers were an improved sales mix, better pricing, continued cost discipline and the flexibility provided by the Group’s global set-up. As such, Volkswagen mitigated the impact from worldwide shortages of semiconductors and wire harnesses by reallocating resources between its main markets in Europe, China, and the Americas.
This resulted in sales revenue of EUR 62.7 billion (+0.6 percent) and a robust operating profit before special items of EUR 8.5 billion including positive effects mainly from commodity hedging activities. Even excluding these effects, the underlying operating profit of around EUR 5 billion lies significantly above previous year and underlines the robustness of the business. Based on the figures and the expected better semiconductor supply in the second half of the year, the Group confirms its outlook for 2022. However, it is not yet possible to conclusively assess in particular the specific effects of the latest developments in the Russia-Ukraine conflict or effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on the Volkswagen Group’s business, on the global economy and growth in the industry in fiscal year 2022.
Volkswagen improves cost efficiency and economic efficiency in a tough environment
The Volkswagen brand strengthened the Group’s economic efficiency sustainably lastingly in the first quarter of 2022. In the first three months, the operating profit before special items increased to EUR 513 million (Q1 2021: EUR 490 million). Sales revenue came in at just under EUR 15 billion (Q1 2021: EUR 17.6 billion) due to an optimized model and price policy, while the number of deliveries in the same period came in at around one million vehicles (Q1 2021: 1.36 million) due to the war in Ukraine, the global semiconductor shortage and the most recent coronavirus measures in China. In contrast, the operating return on sales before special items rose to 3.4 percent (Q1 2021: 2.8 percent).
Imelda Labbé appointed as the new member of the Board of Management for Marketing, Sales and After-Sales at Volkswagen Passenger Cars
Imelda Labbé is taking over as the new member of the Board of Management for Marketing, Sales and After-Sales at Volkswagen Passenger Cars on July 1, 2022. She succeeds Klaus Zellmer, who has been appointed as CEO of ŠKODA AUTO a. s. with effect from July 1. Currently holding the post of Spokeswoman for the Board of Directors of Volkswagen Originalteile Logistik GmbH (OTLG), Labbé has many years of experience in sales, product and brand management, and the after-sales business.
Volkswagen Group and bp launch strategic partnership to rapidly rollout EV fast charging in Europe
Volkswagen and bp have today launched their strategic partnership that will boost the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) across Europe, unveiling the first charger in Dusseldorf, Germany. The partnership brings together two of the leading global players in e-mobility who aim to transform access to EV charging in key European markets by rapidly building a fast charging network across Europe by 2024 and delivering a seamless experience for EV drivers.
Volkswagen Group announces new appointments to key positions in communications
In view of the most recent changes in the Volkswagen Group Board of Management and the ‘Volume’ Brand Group, Volkswagen Group China and the Volkswagen Passenger Cars, ŠKODA AUTO a.s. and Volkswagen Group Components brands are adjusting their communications leadership structure.
Quality offensive: Volkswagen makes charging easier and more convenient
The Volkswagen Group is launching a major quality offensive in terms of charging and energy. The volume brands Volkswagen, Cupra/Seat and ŠKODA are now offering simple tariffs for public charging, allowing customers to charge at fixed kilowatt-hour prices throughout the entire charging network. With this step, the company creates optimal cost transparency. At the same time, the Volkswagen Group is further expanding its European charging network: E-car drivers can now use more than 310,000 charging points throughout Europe, including around 10,000 fast chargers at over 3,000 locations. Volkswagen is also planning a comprehensive partner program to increase the comfort at charging parks.
Targeting 1.5 degrees: Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) confirms Volkswagen's increased climate targets in production
The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) has scientifically reviewed and upgraded the ambition of Volkswagen Group’s emissions reduction targets in production. Volkswagen's SBTi ambition level thus rises from "below 2 degrees" global warming to "1.5 degrees" for its scope 1 (internal operations) and scope 2 (energy supply) emissions. The initiative and the company are publishing this news on the eve of the worldwide Earth Day, on which Volkswagen is calling on its workforce for the second time to take part in the global Project1Hour. Around 670,000 employees worldwide can spend an hour coming up with climate protection ideas - for their own carbon footprint and that of their company.
Smart & Sustainable Island: First electric cars for private customers on Astypalea
The electrification of Astypalea is picking up speed: The Volkswagen Group has delivered the first electric cars to private customers on the Greek island. A turquoise ID.3 Pure was handed over to its new owner directly at the windmills of Chora, the main town on Astypalea. Further deliveries included the ID.4 and e-up! as well as the Seat MÓ eScooter 125. As a result, the e-fleet on Astypalea is further growing, after the local authorities have been using electric vehicles already since last year. The "Smart & Sustainable Island" project is a joint initiative of the Volkswagen Group and the Hellenic Republic. In the coming years, Astypalea will be converted into an island where the mobility will be smart and sustainable, and the energy system will be completely renewed.
Volkswagen Group deliveries of all-electric vehicles up by 65 percent in the first quarter
The Volkswagen Group successfully continued its global electric offensive in the first quarter, lifting deliveries of all-electric vehicles by 65 percent year-on-year. Despite supply bottlenecks for semiconductors and wire harnesses, 99,100 BEVs have been handed over to customers by the end of March, up from 60,000 in the opening quarter of the previous year. The biggest increase was seen in China, where 28,800 customers took delivery of a BEV manufactured by a Group brand – a more than four-fold increase versus the prior-year period.
Volkswagen launches online sales
Customers can now lease new vehicles online from Volkswagen in Germany. The all-electric ID.4 and ID.5 models from Volkswagen’s ID. family will initially be offered. They will be joined later by the ID.3. “This marks a key step in digitalizing our sales as part of our ACCELERATE strategy. We are one of the first major automotive manufacturers to offer complete online leasing of freely configurable vehicles,” said Klaus Zellmer, member of the Volkswagen Brand Board of Management responsible for Sales, Marketing and After Sales. The offering is also to be rolled out successively to other European countries.
Ideas that move: Volkswagen supports exhibition "Motion. Autos, Art, Architecture" at the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
Today the press conference of the exhibition "Motion. Autos, Art, Architecture" took place at the world-famous Guggenheim Museum Bilbao. The initiator and curator of the unique show, iconic architect and visionary Sir Norman Foster, spoke together with Dr. Herbert Diess (Chairman of the Board of Volkswagen AG), Ignacio Gálan (Chairman and CEO Iberdrola) and museum director Juan Ignacio Vidarte about the history of the automobile and the mobility of the future. “Motion” presents around 40 exceptional cars along with artworks by Andy Warhol, Donald Judd, Giacomo Balla and others. In the Future Gallery sketches and models from students give a glimpse into how mobility might look like in the year 2086. The universities cooperated with Bentley Motors Limited, UK and Volkswagen, among others. The sponsorship of the exhibition in Bilbao is part of Volkswagen's international cultural engagement as well as an expression of the support of cultural concerns in the vicinity of the Spanish Volkswagen facilities.
Thomas Schäfer named new Chief Operating Officer at Volkswagen brand
Thomas Schäfer has been named Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the Volkswagen brand effective April 1, 2022. Schäfer will subsequently take over as Chairman of the Volkswagen brand with effect from July 1, 2022, and will also join the Group Board of Management as the member responsible for the ‘Volume’ Brand Group. Ralf Brandstätter will continue to serve as Volkswagen CEO until June 30, 2022, subsequently taking responsibility for the Group Board of Management’s China Division effective August 1, 2022. Brandstätter and Schäfer will prepare for the seamless handover of CEO responsibilities during the transition period from April to July.
Volkswagen Group and SEAT reveal electrification plan for Spain
Electrifying Spain by creating a European Electric Vehicle Hub, building up a battery cell production and full, sustainable E-ecosystem: These are the goals of Volkswagen Group and SEAT for the Iberian Peninsula. Today, the Group declared its plan to apply to the Electric Vehicle PERTE program after the Spanish government announced to open the call for applications on April 1st, 2022. The ‘Future Fast Forward’ program would include a total investment of more than 7 billion euros together with external suppliers along the entire value chain of e-mobility. Furthermore, Volkswagen announced Valencia as the dedicated location for a new battery cell factory in Spain. All plans are still subject to final approvals, foremost the PERTE submission.
Cloud-based and with swarm intelligence: new software generation 3.0 with additional innovative boost for the ID. family
A new level of driving: with software generation 3.0, Volkswagen is adding a multitude of new functions to the all-electric ID. models, enhancing user experience and optimising charging capacity. By using swarm data and the most recent generation of driver assistance systems, Volkswagen is also taking the next step towards automated driving. As part of the ACCELERATE strategy, Volkswagen is forging ahead with its transformation to a software-oriented mobility provider – and is becoming an expert in software integration and over-the-air updates. The ID. family is pioneering the way. Buyers of new cars will benefit from the new software right away. For owners of cars that have already been delivered, Volkswagen plans to provide many of the optimisations of ID. Software 3.0 free of charge via an over-the-air update as of Q2.
Volkswagen Group and Salzgitter AG sign Memorandum of Understanding on supply of low-CO2 steel from the end of 2025
The Volkswagen Group and Salzgitter AG have enjoyed a close partnership for over 60 years. Now both want to open the next chapter together in the decarbonisation of their processes and products. The companies are today announcing a Memorandum of Understanding under which Volkswagen will become one of the first customers for the low-CO2 steel that Salzgitter AG plans to produce on a new production route at its headquarters in Lower Saxony from the end of 2025. According to Salzgitter AG, this will enable over 95 per cent of CO2 emissions in steel production to be saved in future on the basis of hydrogen and renewable energies. The Volkswagen Group plans to use the low-CO2 steel from the end of 2025 in important future projects such as the Trinity1 e-model, which will be produced in Wolfsburg from 2026.
Volkswagen Group joins the Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA)
As the largest member company by revenue, the Volkswagen Group joined the "Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA)" in March 2022. IRMA is an alliance of non-governmental organisations, labor unions, affected communities, investors, mining companies and purchasers of raw materials. With more than 50 diverse members, IRMA works to develop and establish rigorous standards for responsible extraction of raw materials in mining.
One year of ACCELERATE strategy: Volkswagen strengthens efficiency and speeds up transformation
Volkswagen made good progress in its transformation into a tech company in the first year of its ACCELERATE strategy. Important milestones were achieved in 2021 with respect to the key elements of e-mobility, digitalization and new business models. At the same time, the company gave a sustained boost to efficiency in a challenging competitive environment: There was an appreciable increase in sales revenue, return and operating profit in the last fiscal year despite significantly lower unit sales.
Volkswagen Delivers on NEW AUTO Strategy, Laying Basis for 2022
Volkswagen Group delivered on its NEW AUTO Strategy last year, laying the basis for future profitable growth and improving the resilience of its business model in a difficult environment. Volkswagen last year reached the turnaround in key regions of the world, successfully ramped up e-mobility, built up software capabilities and raised efficiency.
Volkswagen and Ford expand collaboration on MEB electric platform
Ford Motor Company and the Volkswagen Group are expanding their e-mobility partnership. Ford plans to produce another electric model for the European market based on the MEB platform. The automaker will also double its planned MEB volume to 1.2 million units over a six-year timeframe. The agreement was signed as part of the strategic alliance between Volkswagen and Ford, which includes e-mobility, commercial vehicles and autonomous driving. Designed as an open vehicle platform, the MEB (Modular Electric Toolkit) allows car manufacturers to electrify their portfolio quickly and cost-effectively.
Volkswagen Group achieves solid results in 2021 and drives forward its transformation to NEW AUTO
The Volkswagen Group proved the robustness of its business model in 2021. The company increased its overall resilience and improved its capabilities to cope with constraints. Overhead costs were successfully reduced, capex discipline was high and the break-even was lowered. At the same time Volkswagen drove its transformation to NEW AUTO forward. A solid profit was achieved despite strong headwinds from semiconductor shortages that led to a decrease in vehicle sales of around 600,000 units compared to 2020. This was 2.4 million fewer units than 2019. Although sales volumes were down 6 percent on prior year, sales revenue increased by 12 percent to EUR 250.2 billion. Operating profit before special items almost doubled compared to 2020 and reached a solid level of EUR 20.0 billion. The operating return on sales before special items also climbed to 8.0 percent after 4.8 percent in prior year. Key to this financial performance was a better mix and favorable pricing. The Automotive Division generated a strong net cash flow of EUR 8.6 billion, a 35 percent year-on-year increase. The Automotive Division’s net liquidity remained almost unchanged compared to the end of 2020, at EUR 26.7 billion. However, this corresponds to an increase of more than EUR 5 billion since the end of 2019, despite the multitude of transformational steps that have been taken in this timeframe, including the acquisition of Navistar. The Board of Management and Supervisory Board are proposing a dividend of EUR 7.50 per ordinary share and EUR 7.56 per preferred share, an increase of 56 percent compared to EUR 4.80 or EUR 4.86, respectively, in the preceding year. This equals to a payout ratio of 25.4 percent. Earnings per ordinary share amounted to EUR 29.59 (16.60) and earnings per preferred share were at EUR 29.65 (16.66).
A Bulli for the all-electric future: World premiere of the new ID. Buzz
Volkswagen Passenger Cars and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles are giving the new ID. Buzz and ID. Buzz Cargo their world premiere today in Hamburg. With Europe's first all-electric bus and transporter range, Volkswagen is providing yet another solution to sustainable and CO2-free mobility. The ID. Buzz comes with the latest ID. software and sets new standards in its segment with the latest systems and functions for safety, comfort and charging.
The ID. Buzz is on its way: only one day to go until the world premiere
It’s getting exciting: on Wednesday, 9 March at 7:00 pm (CET), Volkswagen and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will present the ID. Buzz at a digital world premiere. The ID. Buzz is the most emotional member of the all-electric ID. family to date, taking the DNA of the legendary Volkswagen T1 of 1950 forward into the future with its unique design, innovative technology and progressive sustainability. It is to be launched this year as a five-seater bus and cargo version with zero local emissions.
Volkswagen ID. Buzz: sustainable, with plenty of attention to detail
The official world premiere of the all-electric ID. Buzz is set to take place at 7 p.m on Wednesday, 9 March. It will be launched on the market in two versions – as a bus and as a cargo version. The all-electric edition of the legendary cult-status Microbus has been fully rethought and redesigned. The spacious and versatile interior impresses with its colour scheme, sustainable materials and ingenious ideas.
Go-ahead for new Trinity plant: Milestone for the future of the Wolfsburg production location
Volkswagen has reached another milestone in its transformation journey: A new manufacturing facility for the Trinity electric model is to be built close to the main plant in Wolfsburg, with investment totaling some €2 billion. The Group’s Supervisory Board passed a resolution to this effect today. The new Trinity factory is a key component of the largest modernization program in the history of Volkswagen’s main location. Construction work in the Warmenau district of Wolfsburg is to begin as early as spring 2023 and will take account of building and environmental law. In so doing, the new site will meet high environmental standards. To that end, Volkswagen will engage in an intensive exchange with the relevant authorities as well as with stakeholders. The net carbon-neutral Trinity model, built using the most innovative manufacturing methods, is to roll off the assembly line from 2026. The new facility with its optimized processes will therefore become a model for the gradual transformation of production at the main Wolfsburg plant along with all other Volkswagen manufacturing sites worldwide.
Volkswagen realigns Technical Development: shorter product cycles and faster digital offerings
In its drive to become a technology company, Volkswagen is realigning its Technical Development (TD) division in Wolfsburg. This involves turning the Group’s largest engineering unit with 11,500 employees into a pace-setter for the Volkswagen brand’s transformation into a technology company. The main emphasis is on a complete redesign of the development process, making it interdisciplinary, focused squarely on software, customer requirements and SSP, Volkswagen’s electric platform of the future, and centered on functions rather than individual components. This is expected to cut development time by about a quarter, increase the speed of new software releases and also significantly accelerate manufacturing processes in production. TD will thus become an important pillar for the transformation of development for the Group.
Top marks in the Euro NCAP test: five stars for the ID.5, Polo and Taigo
Hat-trick in the renowned Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) safety test: the new Volkswagen models ID.5, Polo and Taigo have each achieved the highest score possible with five out of five stars. The testers gave the all-electric SUV coupé and the two new small cars with combustion engines excellent ratings in all four tested criteria: the protection of adult occupants, children and vulnerable road users and standard assist systems.
Volkswagen stops production of vehicles in Russia and suspends export
The Volkswagen Group has received the news about the war in Ukraine with great dismay and shock. Volkswagen continues to hope for a cessation of hostilities and a return to diplomacy. We are convinced that a sustainable solution to the conflict can only be found on the basis of international law.
The new “Roc stars” among compact SUVs: T-Roc and T-Roc Cabriolet on sale now
As of today, the new T-Roc and the new T-Roc Cabriolet are in the showrooms at Volkswagen dealerships in Germany. Featuring fresh design accentuations on the exterior, significant advances in the areas of operation and connectivity and the very latest generation of assistance systems, the two crossover models build on the success of the previous generation. The interior of the two models also offers a more contemporary style and greater sense of quality than ever before. The standard equipment now includes LED headlights, the Digital Cockpit, an 6.5-inch infotainment display and a redesigned multifunction steering wheel. Assist system highlights include IQ.DRIVE Travel Assist and Predictive ACC. The starting price for the new T-Roc with 1.0 TSI engine is 23,495 euros. The T-Roc Cabriolet is available from 31,850 euros.
Green Mobility Holding continues progress with acquisition of Europcar Mobility Group and welcomes extension to facilitate completion
Green Mobility Holding, a bidder consortium consisting of Volkswagen Group, Attestor Limited and Pon Holdings B.V., today reaffirmed its sustained commitment to the takeover offer for the shares of Europcar Mobility Group.
Volkswagen to start review of Porsche AG IPO
Wolfsburg, February 24, 2022 – Volkswagen AG today announced that it will conduct an assessment on the feasibility of a potential initial public offering of Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG. The Management Board and the Supervisory Board of Volkswagen concluded a framework agreement reflecting the respective discussions between Volkswagen AG and Porsche Automobil Holding SE and providing a basis for the next steps to prepare a potential listing. The Group’s Board of Management believes that a possible IPO of Porsche would be an important next step in the successfully launched transformation of Volkswagen into a vertically integrated mobility group and leading provider of software-based and emission-free mobility. The actual feasibility of an IPO depends on several different parameters as well as general market conditions. No final decisions have been made.
Welcome back: Volkswagen e-up! available for order again
The success story of the e-up! can resume. The all-electric small car can now be ordered once again. For many customers, Volkswagen's successful model served as their entry into e-mobility – not least of all because the city specialist offers extensive standard equipment, space for four people and an impressive range. To date, over 80,000 of this model of vehicle have been sold around the world, and in Germany it was in second place in 2021 for all-electric vehicles with the most new registrations.
Coronavirus premium for Volkswagen AG employees
Volkswagen AG is again paying the employees at its German locations a coronavirus premium in recognition of their great dedication in recent months working under difficult conditions. The regular coronavirus premium of €500 will be paid out at the end of February 2022 with employees’ monthly salary. This was announced today (Tuesday) by the Executive Board and the Works Council.
ID.5 in series production: Volkswagen successfully transforms Zwickau site into an electric vehicle production plant
Volkswagen is driving forward the shift to electric vehicle manufacturing with its ACCELERATE strategy. Today’s official start of production of the ID.5 and ID.5 GTX marks the completion of Volkswagen’s successful transformation of its Zwickau plant into a dedicated electric vehicle production facility. The long-established site in western Saxony is the first large-scale facility of any volume manufacturer worldwide to switch over all production from internal combustion engine vehicles to electric vehicles. Six models from the Volkswagen, Audi and CUPRA brands will now be manufactured in Zwickau based on the modular electric drive matrix (MEB). The plants in Emden (ID.4), Hanover (ID. Buzz) and Chattanooga (USA, ID.4) will be added to the electric vehicle production network this year. The Volkswagen brand has thus laid the foundations for building 1.2 million all-electric-vehicles at its sites in Europe, the USA and China in 2022 based on the MEB.
Volkswagen commemorates the victims of the Holocaust
On the occasion of today’s International Holocaust Memorial Day, Volkswagen commemorated the victims of National Socialism by laying a wreath at the Wolfsburg plant. In accordance with the current Corona regulations, Group Human Resources Director Gunnar Kilian, Plant Manager Dr. Rainer Fessel and Group Works Council Chairwoman Daniela Cavallo laid a wreath at the memorial stone in Südstraße at the Wolfsburg plant on behalf of the workforce.
Volkswagen Passenger Cars again significantly exceeds European CO2 fleet targets for 2021
Based on preliminary figures, Volkswagen Passenger Cars has exceeded the ambitious European CO2 fleet targets for 2021 and produced around 5.5 million grams fewer CO2 than required by law. The passenger car fleet of new vehicles in the European Union achieved average CO2 emissions of 113 g/km – the legal CO2 target for the brand was 119 g/km. In 2021, the realistic WLTP standard replaced the old NEDC. Volkswagen had already over-fulfilled the targets for 2020.
Volkswagen Group drives forward decarbonization and overfulfils the EU’s CO2 fleet target
Volkswagen has made significant progress in decarbonizing its vehicle fleet on its path to becoming a sustainable, software-centric mobility group. In 2021, 472,300 electrified vehicles were delivered in the EU including Norway and Iceland, 64 percent more than in the previous year. The proportion of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) rose to 17.2 percent of total deliveries (2020: 10.1 percent). The Group is thus the clear market leader in the BEV segment in Europe, accounting for a market share of around 25 percent. Based on preliminary figures, the Group achieved average CO2 emissions of 118.5 g/km in 2021 for its new passenger car fleet in the EU, which is around 2 percent below the legal target. The final confirmation by the EU Commission is to follow at a later date. The emissions of Bentley and Lamborghini are measured individually, which is why they are not included in this figure.
Volkswagen and Bosch want to industrialize manufacturing processes for battery cells
The Volkswagen Group and the Bosch Group have signed a memorandum of understanding to explore the establishment of a European battery equipment solution provider. The two companies plan to supply integrated battery production systems as well as on-site ramp-up and maintenance support for battery cell and system manufacturers. The companies are aiming for cost and technology leadership in the industrialization of battery technology and the volume production of sustainable, cutting-edge batteries. Through the “local for local” production approach, this will also be a step towards the objective of carbon-neutral mobility. In Europe alone, the Volkswagen Group plans to build six cell factories by 2030.
Available to order now: the new T-Roc R
The T-Roc R has been the powerful flagship of the compact SUVs from Volkswagen since 2019. Pre-sales of the new edition of this performance model are now underway. The new T-Roc R impresses with a 221 kW (300 PS) 4-cylinder TSI engine, 7-speed DSG gearbox and the intelligent 4MOTION all-wheel drive system. This combination and other technical features ensure exceptional agility, which is reflected in both the dynamic exterior design and the high-quality interior. The dynamic crossover model now also features innovative technologies from higher vehicle classes, including the high-output IQ.LIGHT system, new assist systems and advanced digital services.
Volkswagen Group on course for NEW AUTO: deliveries of battery-electric vehicles doubled in 2021
Volkswagen drove forward its transformation into a sustainable, software-centric mobility group in the year now ended and approximately doubled its BEV deliveries year-on-year to 452,900 units. These now account for 5.1 percent of total deliveries, up from 2.5 percent in the previous year. The Group is the European market leader for battery-electric vehicles by a large margin and achieved the second-largest share of the key US market with about 7.5 percent. In China, 92,700 BEVs were delivered, more than four times the figure for 2020. Sales of plug-in hybrids worldwide also rose significantly to 309,500 units (+61 percent). In total, the Group delivered 8,882,000 vehicles to customers around the world. As forecast, the global semiconductor shortage led to a slight decrease of 4.5 percent versus 2020 despite high customer demand and full order books.
Volkswagen doubles deliveries of all-electric vehicles in 2021
“Volkswagen is continuing to press ahead with the transition to e-mobility despite the limited supply of semiconductors,” said Ralf Brandstätter, CEO of the Volkswagen brand. Last year, the company delivered more electric vehicles worldwide than ever before, handing over more than 369,000 electric cars (+73 percent versus 2020), including approximately 106,000 PHEVs (+33 percent) and 263,000 all-electric vehicles (+97 percent) to customers. Volkswagen thus doubled its BEV deliveries year-on-year. “In a very short time, we have reached a top position for all-electric vehicles in Europe. With our ACCELERATE strategy and the expansion of the model portfolio, we will continue to increase the pace of the e-mobility offensive. Before the end of this year, the ID. BUZZ will represent yet another emotional model in our ID. family,” said Brandstätter.
Brose and Volkswagen launch joint venture Brose Sitech for seat systems
Brose Sitech has been operating on the global market as an independent supplier of seat systems since January 1, 2022. The cooperation partners Brose and Volkswagen each hold a 50 percent stake in the joint venture. The headquarters is Polkowice in Poland. Around 5,000 employees work at a total of eight sites in Poland, Germany, China and the Czech Republic. Brose Sitech expects to double business volume to 2.8 billion euros by 2030. The number of employees is expected to rise to around 7,000.
70th anniversary of UNHCR – Volkswagen donates 70 university scholarships
To commemorate the 70th anniversary of the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), the Volkswagen Group will award 70 young refugees scholarships for a university degree. While according to UNHCR approximately 30 percent of young people around the world have access to higher education, only 5 percent of refugees do. The Volkswagen Group’s new commitment also heralds the start of a longer-term partnership with UNO-Flüchtlingshilfe, the German partner of UNHCR. The Volkswagen Group has been providing assistance to refugees for quite some time, particularly with integration. Its work focuses on preparing them step by step for occupational training and the German labor market.
Enhanced power and speed: Volkswagen takes voice control in the Golf to a new level
Faster, more powerful, more stable: Volkswagen optimises infotainment in the current Golf. The new software and hardware now going into series production enhance a wide range of functions. In particular, voice control now responds up to four times faster, taking performance up to the premium level. Numerous customer requests have been incorporated.
Convenient, networked and sustainable: new solutions for charging electric Volkswagen models
Volkswagen is the first high-volume manufacturer to offer its customers a universal and seamless eco-system for charging their electric models. The service with the name We Charge will be enhanced step-by-step to offer higher performance, convenience and sustainability – with new charging solutions for home and mobile charging, new functions in the ID. models and soon also with the technology of bidirectional charging.
Significant CO2 savings possible: latest-generation diesel engines approved for fuels made from residual and recycled materials
Volkswagen plans to reduce the carbon footprint of its fleet in Europe by 40 percent by the year 2030. The company is therefore increasingly focusing on fully and partially electric vehicles. As a further alternative, Volkswagen is now officially approving models with the latest-generation 4-cylinder diesel engines for use with paraffinic fuels. These newly developed diesel fuels containing bio-components permit significant CO2 savings of 70-95 percent compared with conventional diesel. Alongside its accelerated ramp-up efforts in the area of electric mobility, Volkswagen is systematically further developing the existing range with combustion engines. In this way, the company is responding to different customer needs while at the same time taking into account the internationally varying drive system preferences and the respective general conditions.
'Volkswagen Art4ALL' as major element of partnership with Nationalgalerie – Staatliche Museen zu Berlin
The reopened Neue Nationalgalerie introduces the 'Volkswagen Art4ALL' event series as a new visitor experience. The monthly event format was developed as part of the multi-year partnership between Volkswagen and Nationalgalerie – Staatliche Museen zu Berlin with the mutual commitment to create encounters with culture and the arts for as many people as possible. This approach is perfectly put into practice through 'Volkswagen Art4ALL' as it continuously establishes new relations and discourses with visitors.
Volkswagen Group creates European company for its battery business
Volkswagen establishes a European company (Société Européenne) to consolidate activities along the value chain for batteries – from processing raw materials to developing a unified Volkswagen battery to managing the European gigafactories. The company’s scope will include new business models based around reusing discarded car batteries and recycling the valuable raw materials they contain. The Group is thus creating efficient and future-proof structures for the rapidly growing battery business. As part of its NEW AUTO strategy, the Volkswagen Group is aiming to become the world’s leading manufacturer of electric vehicles. To this end, it is expanding its battery-related activities and making these into one of its core competencies.
Planning Round 70: Volkswagen drives forward electrification of its European plants and presents its plan for transforming the Wolfsburg site
Within the framework of Planning Round 70, the Volkswagen Group today resolved to further electrify its European plants in pursuit of its goal of becoming global market leader in electric mobility by 2025. Thus, the Group vigorously drives forward the implementation of its NEW AUTO strategy. The Group headquarters and manufacturing site in Wolfsburg will be transformed and the Group’s competitiveness boosted through higher spending on future technologies. The future-oriented investments, which will be primarily in e-mobility and digitalization, will account for the largest proportion of total investments of EUR 159 billion for the first time, at 56 percent or EUR 89 billion. Volkswagen expects that by 2026 one in four vehicles sold will have a battery-electric drive system.
Volkswagen’s Supervisory Board strengthens Group Board of Management team
Volkswagen AG is strengthening its Group Board of Management to deal with the next phase of the transformation. As part of this, the structure of the management body and its functions will be reorganised to make the company even more effective in tackling the challenges of the years ahead. The Group’s Supervisory Board adopted the corresponding resolutions at its meeting in Wolfsburg on Thursday. The Chairman of the Board of Management, Herbert Diess, will take over responsibility for the automotive software division CARIAD within the Group Board of Management from Markus Duesmann at the beginning of 2022. The CEO of the Volkswagen Passenger Cars Brand, Ralf Brandstätter, will join the Group Board of Management at the same time and will be responsible for the activities of the core brand. Herbert Diess will continue as the Board of Management member with responsibility for the Volume Brand Group. On 1 February 2022, Manfred Döss will take over “Integrity and Legal Affairs” from Hiltrud Werner. Hauke Stars will take up the position of Group Board of Management member responsible for “IT” on the same day. In addition to being the member of the Board of Management of Audi for Sales, Hildegard Wortmann will assume the same role on the Group Board of Management as from 1 February 2022 as well.
Press conference on the Supervisory Board meeting of Volkswagen AG
The press conference on the Supervisory Board meeting of Volkswagen AG will be broad-casted live on Thursday, December 9th 2021, at 02:30pm CET.
Volkswagen drives expansion of renewable energies with a new wind farm in Sweden
Volkswagen intends to be net carbon neutral by 2050. That is why the company is going well beyond electrification of the car with its holistic decarbonization program “Way to Zero”. Volkswagen is the first car maker to support expansion of renewable energies on an industrial scale – and will drive expansion of European wind farms and solar plants with around €40 million up to 2025. Volkswagen has now signed an agreement with wpd wind farm Onshore Aldermyrberget in Skellefteå, the largest project in its portfolio to date. Volkswagen’s share of the wind farm generates some 100 GWh of electricity, or enough for 27,000 households. As a result, Volkswagen is living up to its responsibility as the market leader for electric vehicles in Sweden. In connection with net carbon neutral manufacturing of its ID. models, Volkswagen is now taking another big step towards its goal of net carbon neutral e-mobility over the entire life cycle.
Volkswagen enters into strategic partnerships for the industrialization of battery technology
The Volkswagen Group has entered into three more strategic partnerships, further strengthening its position in the field of batteries. The new partners are the leading materials technology group Umicore, the battery specialist 24M Technologies, and cleantech company Vulcan Energy Resources Ltd. Although these three partnerships are independent from each other, they share a common goal: The industrialization of battery technology and the volume production of even more sustainable, cutting-edge batteries. The Volkswagen Group is consistently implementing its technology roadmap for the in-house development and production of battery cells, as presented at its Power Day earlier this year. In Europe alone, the Group plans to build six Gigafactories by 2030.
Volkswagen Group ties loan to sustainability target for the first time
The Volkswagen Group has for the first time concluded a loan with terms tied to achieving a sustainability target (sustainability linked loan). The interest rate on the three-year €1.8 billion agreement depends on the Volkswagen Group achieving its CO2 fleet emission targets in Europe. The funds will be used for refinancing and to cover new liquidity requirements. The loan is provided by a consortium of banks comprising Crédit Agricole (coordination), Banco Santander, Bayerische Landesbank, Commerzbank, Intesa Sanpaolo and Société Générale.
All-new Taigo available in dealerships now
With the launch of the Taigo, a totally new model arrives in Volkswagen showrooms – with a sloping roof like a coupé and a slightly elevated seating position. However, its modern character is not only reflected in the elegant shape of its body, but also in the many intelligent comfort, operating and assist systems. On request, the small car can be upgraded with a black roof, large tilting and sliding panoramic sunroof, and technological features like IQ.DRIVE Travel Assist for partly automated driving. The entry price for the all-new Taigo (with 1.0 TSI engine, 70 kW/95 PS, 5-speed) is € 19,350.
Note to editors: New brand communications line-up at Volkswagen
Changes to Volkswagen Communications: The structural separation of Brand and Group Communications that was initiated in July 2020 at the Wolfsburg site has been completed effective December 1. In this connection, key areas of communicating the Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand have been realigned and strengthened. Robin Aschhoff remains Head of Communications.
Science for all: Volkswagen helps phaeno Science Center to launch new communication formats linking scientists and audience
Reaching the public with scientific topics: this goal is set by many modern scientists and research institutions. Launching two new formats, Volkswagen and phaneo, which is among the leading science museums in the world, expand the dialog between experts and audience.
Volkswagen and „Hamburger Bahnhof“ continue successful „Volkswagen Art4ALL” program
„Volkswagen Art4ALL“ was introduced in April 2018 as a result of the joint efforts of Volkswagen and Nationalgalerie – Staatliche Museen zu Berlin. Made possible by Volkswagen, the “Hamburger Bahnhof – Museum für Gegenwart – Berlin” can be visited by everyone for free on the first Thursday of every month. During the late afternoon und early evening hours, guests are invited to explore the current museum program with exhibitions, tours and workshops, and participate in additional events like performances, artist talks or lectures.
Bidder consortium publishes further information on takeover offer for Europcar
Following the approval of the takeover offer of Green Mobility Holding S.A. for the shares of Europcar Mobility Group by the French financial market regulator Autorité des marchés financiers (AMF), the bidder consortium of Volkswagen Group, Attestor Limited and Pon Holdings B.V. has published further information on the takeover offer in accordance with French regulations.
French financial market regulator AMF approves takeover bid for Europcar
The Volkswagen Group, together with its partners Attestor Limited and Pon Holdings B.V., has reached an important milestone in the planned acquisition of Europcar: The French financial market regulator Autorité des marchés financiers (AMF) today approved the takeover offer of Green Mobility Holding S.A. for the shares of Europcar Mobility Group.
Pre-sales launched for the new ID.5: Volkswagen’s first e-SUV coupé available for order now
Pre-sales of Volkswagen’s first ever e-SUV coupé with long distance suitability have now got underway. The top-of-the-range electric model of the ID. family based on the modular electric drive matrix (MEB) is available in Germany from an entry-level price of 46,515 euros. In addition to its expressive design, the ID.5 features an exclusive interior complete with all the latest Infotainment and assist systems. The ID.5 offers full connectivity and can be updated over-the-air.
Volkswagen is developing the chassis of the future
The ACCELERATE strategy is systematically driving the advancement towards becoming a software-oriented mobility provider. Software is also key in the development of chassis and steering systems for the highly automated driving of the future. Volkswagen is currently developing the next generation of a regulated chassis, and a new steering system.
The new Volkswagen T-Roc: expressive design and innovative technology
World premiere for the new T-Roc: With a fresh design, innovative assist systems and numerous digital services, Volkswagen is continuing the success story of its compact crossover model. A sharpened exterior defines the unmistakable appearance of the new T-Roc, T-Roc R and T-Roc Cabriolet. The interior was refined with high-quality materials, a redesigned Infotainment display and the Digital Cockpit as standard. Innovative technology from higher vehicle classes has now been integrated into the compact SUV model family – in the shape of IQ.Light, with LED matrix headlights, and the assist systems of IQ.Drive with Travel Assist, as well as predictive ACC cruise control. In this way, Volkswagen is making great strides towards becoming a software-oriented mobility provider as part of its ACCELERATE strategy.
New Tiguan Allspace now available from dealerships
The new Tiguan Allspace is now available from dealerships, offering all the most popular strong points of a spacious SUV, space for up to seven people, an updated design and new efficient engines. The long version of Volkswagen’s best-selling SUV model is also available with new technological features, such as IQ.DRIVE Travel Assist for semi-automated driving assistance, We Connect mobile online services and IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights. Customers can choose between five engines, front-wheel or all-wheel drive, and the three equipment packages Life, Elegance and R-Line. The entry price for the new Tiguan Allspace (1.5 l TSI, 110 kW / 150 PS, 6-speed manual gearbox) is 36,900 euros.
Change of leadership at Volkswagen Financial Services – Lars Henner Santelmann leaves, Dr. Christian Dahlheim joins
Lars Henner Santelmann, Chairman of the Board of Europe’s largest automotive financial services provider since September 2015, is leaving the company at his own request as of January 31, 2022, to assume a role in the field of environmental protection and conservation. His successor will be Dr. Christian Dahlheim, currently Head of Group Sales at Volkswagen AG. The Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Volkswagen Financial Services AG, Volkswagen CFO Dr. Arno Antlitz, said: “We would like to thank Lars Henner Santelmann for his many years of service to our company. He has played a key role in its evolution. Among his particular achievements are the organizational realignment and the focus on a new digital business model. Volkswagen Financial Services is a mainstay of our NEW AUTO Group strategy. With his expertise in sales and financial services, Dr. Christian Dahlheim will enable us to continue along this successful path,” continued Antlitz.
Winter tips: Volkswagen’s how-to guide for the cold season
When winter comes around once again, old rules of thumb are dusted off and tips on de-icing, protecting engines and tyres are shared – but many of these are wrong, or misunderstood. Which is why Benjamin Leuchter, racing driver and Volkswagen test and development driver, and the head trainer at Volkswagen Driving Experience, Peter Bunke, are sharing top tips for the cold season.
Digital skills for the future: Volkswagen and CARIAD fund the new coding school ‘42 Berlin’
As a founding partner of ‘42 Wolfsburg’, Volkswagen recognized at an early stage the powerful role that the innovative coding school ‘42’ could play in the company’s transformation to a software-focused technology company. The non-profit coding academy opened its doors last spring and is being strategically and financially supported by Volkswagen in the company’s role as lead partner. Volkswagen is now drawing on this positive experience with ‘42 Wolfsburg’ to expand this commitment to IT training even further. The automaker has now joined forces with its software subsidiary, CARIAD, and such companies as Bayer, Microsoft, SAP and T-Systems to set up a second coding academy in the German capital of Berlin. The first students are scheduled to begin their studies at ‘42 Berlin’ next summer.
Volkswagen to invest some €1 billion by 2026 – South America region to be geared to sustained profitability
Despite the continuing challenges of the corona pandemic and the worldwide semiconductor shortage, Volkswagen expects to report a positive result in Latin America for the first time since 2013. Volkswagen is to invest some €1 billion over the next five years to further strengthen its competitive situation in this important market and be geared to sustained profitability. In addition to further local vehicle projects, in particular digitalization and decarbonization in South America are to be given an additional boost. This includes a research center for biofuels as a bridging technology for this market to complement Volkswagen’s global electrification offensive.
Symbolising an entire industrial region: Heidersberger’s photography “Kraftwerk der Volkswagen AG” turns 50
In the 1960s, photographer Heinrich Heidersberger had captured the atmosphere in the Wolfsburg region with its people, places and production sites in a number of outstanding and timeless images. Providing different impressions of the young industrial city of Wolfsburg, his series of black and white photography includes “Kraftwerk der Volkswagen AG” which Heidersberger took in 1971. It has become not only an artistic icon but also plays a key role for Heidersberger’s body of work and for Volkswagen.
FIVA honors former Volkswagen CEO Prof. Dr. Carl H. Hahn
Prof. Dr. Carl H. Hahn, former Chairman of the Volkswagen Board of Management, has received the highest recognition for his contribution to the international development history of the automobile. Tiddo Bresters, President of FIVA (Fédération Internationale des Véhicules Anciens) presented the Heritage Hall of Fame award in the Zeithaus at Autostadt.
The successful ID family continues to grow: the new ID.5 is the first electric SUV coupé from Volkswagen
On the “Way to ZERO”: The new ID.5 does more than just expand the successful ID. family; the new Volkswagen launch moves the electrification of its new car fleet forward and into a new market segment. The elegant, expressive E-SUV coupé is equipped with the new ID. software version 3.0, which includes improved charging performance and voice control among other features. With the use of swarm data and latest-generation driver assistance systems, Volkswagen is also taking the next step towards automated driving.
For a carbon-neutral mobility - Volkswagen enters into a strategic partnership with EIT InnoEnergy
EIT InnoEnergy, the world’s leading innovation engine for sustainable energy, and Volkswagen AG have announced a strategic partnership. Both companies are planning joint innovation and investment activities designed to help innovative technologies and business models achieve economic breakthroughs which will contribute to the decarbonisation of the transport sector and accelerate the shift to electromobility. The partnership involves Volkswagen becoming a new shareholder of EIT InnoEnergy.
Volkswagen Q3 earnings impacted by massive semiconductor shortage – nine-month performance up on the prior year
Despite the ongoing structural shortage of semiconductors throughout the industry, Volkswagen delivered around 3.8 million vehicles to customers worldwide in the first nine months (+3.3% compared with the prior-year period). During the reporting period, sales revenue grew to EUR 55.5 billion (+18%) and the operating profit increased by EUR 2.6 billion year on year to EUR 1.6 billion (operating return on sales: +2.9%). The net operating cash flow before special items stood at EUR -0.7 billion after nine months, due especially to the increased inventories of unfinished vehicles, battery cells, and raw materials, auxiliaries and consumables that resulted from supply issues. As expected, the third quarter was impacted by the difficult semiconductor situation. During this period, Volkswagen delivered around 1.1 million vehicles (-26%). The operating profit in the third quarter was EUR -184 million. The company already anticipates a return to a significantly positive performance in the current fourth quarter.
Volkswagen Group’s Q3 result down year-on-year due to semiconductor bottlenecks – profitability target for 2021 confirmed
The global semiconductor bottlenecks particularly impacted on the business performance of the Volkswagen Group in the third quarter. Operating profit before special items came to EUR 2.8 (3.2) billion in the period from July to September, a drop compared with the first two quarters of this year and the pandemic-related weak prior-year period. The operating return on sales before special items declined to 4.9 (5.4) percent in the third quarter. The volume brands were affected most in this period, recording operating losses in spite of having full order books. Owing to the semiconductor shortage, the high level of customer demand in China could also not be met. In the first nine months of the year, the Group’s brands lifted deliveries to customers by 6.9 percent to 7.0 (6.5) million vehicles. Sales revenue saw a more significant increase, rising by 20.0 percent in the same period to EUR 187 (155) billion. Due to the strong first half, operating profit before special items, which stood at EUR 14.2 (2.4) billion after nine months, remained at a solid level and exceeded the pandemic-related weak prior-year figure. The operating return on sales was 7.6 (1.5) percent. The Automotive Division achieved an adjusted net cash flow of EUR 12.4 (4.5) billion by the end of September, thus contributing substantially to the financing of the Group’s transformation. Despite the impact on working capital caused by the semiconductor shortage, adjusted net cash flow for the third quarter was slightly positive at EUR 33 million. Net liquidity in the Automotive Division fell by EUR 9.4 billion compared with the first six months to a still robust level of EUR 25.6 billion. Here, the Navistar transaction completed by July had a perceptible effect of around EUR 6 billion. In addition, a dividend of EUR 2.4 billion was distributed to Volkswagen shareholders in the third quarter. The Volkswagen Group confirmed its outlook for the operating return on sales for full year 2021 of 6.0 to 7.5 percent.
Volkswagen tests 5G for production on its way to smart factories
Volkswagen is taking a further step in the direction of fully networked factories. A local 5G standalone network (“campus network”) is now available at its main plant in Wolfsburg that initially covers the main production development center and the pilot hall. The pilot project will test whether the 5G technology meets the demanding requirements of vehicle production with a view to developing this for industrial series production in the future. A dedicated 5G radio frequency will be used to safeguard secure, delay-free transmission of data. The Transparent Factory in Dresden has also put a so-called “5G island” into operation. Volkswagen undertakes setup and operation of the 5G infrastructure itself in a move designed to build up competitive expertise in using this important technology of the future and ensure data security.
Volkswagen Group doubles deliveries of pure e-vehicles in third quarter
The Volkswagen Group successfully continued its global electric offensive in the third quarter of 2021. Despite a shortage of semiconductors, 122,100 BEVs were delivered to customers from July to September, an increase of 109 percent compared with the prior-year quarter. Particularly the market ramp-up in China accelerated significantly in Q3, where 28,900 BEVs were delivered, compared with 18,300 in the first half of the year. The BEV share of total deliveries rose to more than 6 percent in Q3. A total of 293,100 BEVs were delivered worldwide by the end of September, more than twice as many as in the prior-year period (+138 percent). There also continued to be strong demand for vehicles with a plug-in hybrid drive (PHEVs). A total of 246.000 PHEVs were delivered in the first nine months, more than twice as many as in the prior-year period (+133 percent).
Volkswagen to Combine Group Functions Treasury and Investor Relations
Volkswagen will combine the Group functions Treasury and Investor Relations, effective December 1, 2021, to further strengthen the relationship to its banking partners and other capital markets participants. Dr. Jörg Boche, Head of Group Treasury at Volkswagen AG, will end his career after 15 years and retire at the end of 2021. Rolf Woller, Head of Treasury and Investor Relations at Volkswagen subsidiary TRATON SE, will move to Volkswagen AG effective December 1 to take over the newly formed Group function.
Volkswagen and documenta fifteen: fostering sustainability
For the fifth time Volkswagen supports documenta. The largest exhibition for contemporary art takes place in Kassel which is also home of one of Volkswagen’s production sites. As a leading partner, the company stands behind the joint approach of documenta and Museum Fridericianium gGmbH in improving the environmental footprint of the international art event. Documenta fifteen is going to be curated by the Indonesian artist collective ruangrupa using lumbung, a practice based on collectivity, resource building and sustainable exchange. Between June 18 and September 25, 2022 the exhibition will invite visitors on more than 100 days to experience artworks from all over the world.
Award-winning! – Volkswagen’s electric platform wins renowned TU Wien prize
Big award for Volkswagen: today, Thomas Ulbrich, member of Volkswagen brand Board of Management, “Technical Development” division, accepted the 22nd Porsche Prize awarded by the Vienna University of Technology (TU Wien) for the development of the modular electric drive matrix (MEB). With the MEB, Volkswagen has brought the platform concept into a new era of mobility: through its systematic focus on pure electric drive and usability for vehicles of different classes, the MEB enables huge economies of scale, reduces the cost of e-mobility and accelerates the transition to zero-emission mobility. The internationally renowned “Porsche Prize” has been awarded for pioneering research and development in automotive engineering since 1977.
Volkswagen Group drives forward intelligent mobility solutions
The Volkswagen Group will present solutions for the efficient, sustainable, safe and convenient movement of people and goods at the ITS World Congress in Hamburg, the world’s largest industry event for intelligent transportation systems, from October 11 to 15, 2021. The focus will be on autonomous driving, the intelligent use of vehicle data and the integration of electric vehicles into the power grid. Together with its Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, MOIA, CARIAD, Elli and MAN Truck & Bus brands, the Group will provide a forum for interested parties and experts with live demonstrations of pioneering pilot projects, discussion panels, lectures and expert talks.
Volkswagen gains some 70,000 new customers with best-selling ID.3 in the first year
Strong performance of the all-electric Volkswagen ID.3 after its first year in the European market: “The car is an absolute hit. It appeals to customers and has shot from zero to take top positions among new registrations in a large number of countries,” says Klaus Zellmer, Board Member for Sales, Marketing and After Sales at Volkswagen. By the end of September, the car had already been ordered around 144,000 times in Europe – 50 percent of buyers had not driven a Volkswagen before and were new to the brand, found a study commissioned by the company. “The ID.3 has tapped into an above-average number of new buyer groups for Volkswagen. Some 70,000 new customers are strong proof that we are exactly on the right track with this vehicle and our electric mobility strategy,” continues Zellmer.
Second life or recycling? BattMan rescues batteries from a needlessly short lifespan!
The question is on the minds of everyone who is interested in e-mobility: What happens to the battery when an e-vehicle has reached the end of its service life? The answer is simple: The new analysis software BattMan ReLife checks their state of health in just a few minutes. Starting immediately, the quick check system will be used as a means of initial diagnosis in battery recycling at the pilot plant that Volkswagen Group Components has been operating in Salzgitter since the beginning of the year.
Powerful estate with all-round talent – the new Golf R Estate
The new Golf R Estate is Volkswagen’s most powerful and dynamic Golf Estate so far. Sportiness meets everyday practicality. Top performance meets flexibility, with a spacious interior. The 235-kW (320-PS) Golf R Estate remains true to the tradition of its predecessors: a flexible all-rounder, comfortable leisure and family estate, and a sporty companion with impressive dynamics – thanks in part to the 4MOTION all-wheel drive system, including R Performance torque vectoring with wheel-selective torque control on the rear axle.
Volkswagen Group China builds battery system factory in Anhui to strengthen BEV value chain
Volkswagen Group China is commencing construction of a battery system production factory in Hefei (Anhui province). VW Anhui Components Company is the first battery system plant to be wholly owned by the Group in China. Its initial annual capacity will be 150,000 to 180,000 high-voltage battery systems for Volkswagen Anhui’s all-electric vehicles based on the Group’s Modular Electric Drive Toolkit (MEB platform). With an area of over 45,000 square meters, the plant will be located next to the production facilities of Volkswagen Anhui, Volkswagen’s first majority-owned joint venture for all-electric vehicles. Volkswagen Group China is investing over EUR 140 million until 2025 in the new plant and its facilities, with the start of production (SOP) targeted for the second half of 2023.
E.ON and Volkswagen launch fast charger with storage battery
E.ON Board Member for Customer Solutions Patrick Lammers and Volkswagen Group Board Member for Technology Thomas Schmall put in operation the first E.ON Drive Booster in Essen. The innovative product makes fast charging easier and more affordable for operators and customers. As a flexible fast charger, it requires no civil engineering work or adjustments to the grid connection and can charge two electric vehicles simultaneously with 150 kW. This means the expansion of a dense public network of fast-charging stations – as is essential for the future success of e-mobility – can become a reality much sooner than was previously assumed.
Consortium of Volkswagen Group, Attestor Limited and Pon Holdings B.V. files takeover offer for Europcar
The consortium of Volkswagen Group, Attestor Limited and Pon Holdings B.V., together acting as Green Mobility Holding S.A., has filed its proposed tender offer for the shares of Europcar Mobility Group with the French Autorité des marchés financiers (AMF) today.