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Volkswagen Middle East announces 23% growth for Q1 2013 4/10/13 Volkswagen Middle East has announced a 23% increase in deliveries for Q1 2013 compared to the same period in 2012, with the month of March up 27% on last year in terms of growth. The region has seen its sedan models account for almost 50% of the region’s total deliveries in the first quarter, reinforcing Volkswagen’s sedan strategy, which indicates the need and preference of customers in the Middle East for high standards of safety and design and competitive pricing in the sector. The results from January to March of this year have also indicated a strong start for the new Volkswagen Passat sedan which arrived in the Middle East in 2012 and was awarded best mid-size sedan in the region by the Middle East Motor Awards last year. Also making a mark in the first quarter was the bestselling Volkswagen, Touareg, with a 45% growth. Growth across regional markets also increased with the GCC up 28% on 2012. Volkswagen vehicles were delivered to customers across 12 Middle East markets, with Kuwait and Lebanon leading the way with growth of 113% and 43% respectively. These countries were followed closely in performance by the UAE (30%), Bahrain (27%) and Jordan (24%).
Source: http://www.albawaba.com/business/pr/volkswagen-growth-483544 VOLKSWAGEN REPORTS 3.1 PERCENT INCREASE IN MARCH U.S. SALES
Herndon, VA - Volkswagen of America, Inc. (VWoA) today reported 37,704 units sold in March, a 3.1 percent increase over prior year sales and best March since 1973.
“Last month marked our 31st consecutive month of year-over-year sales increases and our strongest March in 40 years,” said Jonathan Browning, President and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. “While we are cautious in terms of economic outlook, we expect to see continued growth at a moderate pace in the months ahead.”
Jetta sedan, the volume leader for Volkswagen, delivered 12,872 units. Jetta SportWagen closed the month with 2,133 units, up 5.6 percent versus the prior year.
The Chattanooga-built Passat continued to deliver strong results with 9,521 units sold and best year-to-date with 25,909 units delivered. In March, 34 percent of the Passat’s sold were diesel.
The Beetle and Beetle Convertible delivered 2,599 and 1,483 units, respectively, for the month.
The Tiguan saw a significant increase in sales with 3,304 units sold, up 24.3 percent, marking the best March and best year-to-date ever for the vehicle.
Total sales of the Golf (including Golf R and GTI) were 2,854 units. The next-generation “A7” Golf will debut at the New York International Auto Show on March 27. The “A7” Golf is off to a strong start in Europe and received the prestigious European Car of the Year Award. In addition, last week at the New York International Auto Show, the vehicle was also named the World Car of the Year.
Source: www.media.vw.com
The New Golf is ‘World Car of the Year 2013’
3/28/13 New York - The new Golf just keeps on winning: an international expert jury today named the bestseller from Wolfsburg ‘World Car of the Year 2013’. The globally sought-after prize was awarded at the New York International Auto Show. The ‘World Car of the Year’ title is a further milestone in the growing list of awards for the Golf.
Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft, explained: “We at Volkswagen are all delighted that the Golf has been named ‘World Car of the Year’. To win this award again shows that the Golf is and remains in a class of its own all around the world. This car sets new benchmarks again and again, not least in terms of efficiency and environmental credentials. Soon, for instance, the Golf will also be launched as a plug-in hybrid and as a 100% electric car.”
For over 30 years, the Golf has been an established feature of the motoring scene around the globe. For the seventh generation of the bestseller today’s prize represented its 17th award since being launched in November 2012. In giving their reasons for the award, the jury said: “The Golf is just the right size – it’s spacious, practical and comfortable. It has got a fresh, progressive design, a new range of engines, plus an impressive list of equipment and safety systems. If there is a car for everyone, the Golf is it.”
It was only three weeks ago that the compact car from Wolfsburg was crowned European Car of the Year. Further accolades from home and abroad, such as ‘The Best Cars of 2013’, ‘Auto Trophy 2012’ and the ‘Top Gear – All the car you’ll ever need’ award, round off the list of successes.
Source: www.media.vw.com
Volkswagen E-Up! Debuts with 93-Mile Range, 81 HP The e-up! has gone from concept to production vehicle, with the first all-electric VW making its debut. The compact four-seater features a driving range of 93 miles and can be recharged to as much as 80 percent within 30 minutes. Powered by an electric motor with 81 hp, it has a maximum torque of 155 lb-ft which is available immediately with the first rev. Acceleration to 62 mph from a standstill is timed at 14 seconds and the e-up! has a top speed of 84 mph. The 18.7-kWh lithium-ion battery is located in the underfloor area with the port for charging hidden behind the “fuel door.” Weighing in at 2,612 pounds, the e-up!’s light weight helps contribute to its impressive range. In addition, the German automaker offers its Combined Charging System (CCS) so the e-up! supports both DC and AC charging, allowing owners to easily charge their vehicles at most charging stations. Distinctive exterior features on the production e-up! include a curved layout of the LED daytime running lights in the front bumper, while the front end, side skirts, and underbody have been aerodynamically optimized. It’ll come with machine-polished 15-inch wheels, VW emblems with blue backgrounds, and an e-up! badge in the rear. The official public premiere of the e-up! will be at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show later this year.
Volkswagen Group achieves key milestones in 2012
3/15/13 Winterkorn: “Volkswagen is approaching the coming months with the necessary realism and great vigilance.”
Wolfsburg, Germany - The Volkswagen Group successfully mastered the challenges posed by a difficult market environment in 2012, again posting record vehicle sales, sales revenue and earnings. “Volkswagen is feeling the headwinds –especially in Europe. Nevertheless we remain guardedly confident”, said Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft, on Thursday during the presentation of the Company’s 2012 financial results.
The Volkswagen Group not only turned in a compelling operational performance in the past fiscal year – it also met its targets for major strategic projects: The Porsche brand has been wholly owned by Volkswagen since August 1, 2012 and Ducati, a legendary motorcycle brand, has now joined the Group family. A leading mobility group needs a strong commercial vehicles business – and the alliance between MAN, Scania and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles means that the groundwork for this has been laid. The launch of the Modular Transverse Toolkit in 2012 ushered in a new era in passenger cars. In addition, Volkswagen became the first carmaker to commit to the CO2 target of 95g/km by 2020.
Source: www.media.vw.com NEW SOCIAL MEDIA APP FROM VOLKSWAGEN AIMS TO MAXIMIZE FUN ON EVERY DRIVE
3/7/13 Herndon, VA and Austin, TX - Volkswagen of America and Google today announced their partnership on “Volkswagen Smileage,” a new social media application built using a suite of Google products and platforms. The app launches later this year and will allow people to record and share how much fun they’re having while on the road, through a new metric called “smileage.” Users can share their road trip experiences dynamically through photos, videos, and social commentary via interactive maps. In addition, Smileage users are rewarded for connecting with others that they encounter along the way, through a re-imagination of the classic “Punch Dub” game.
“Volkswagen owners have demonstrated to us again and again that they are a very active community of fans that love to talk about their cars and the roads they travel,” said Kevin Mayer, Vice President of Marketing, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “Now, thanks to our partnership with Google on building this new social media application, we have a way for them to do so while doing exactly what they enjoy: Being in their cars. Whether they’re taking the kids to soccer camp or setting off with friends on a weekend camping trip, Volkswagen Smileage gives them a way to connect and share their experiences with their friends, family, and others. What’s more, this app will be available to everyone and work with all cars, so everybody can have a little bit of VW in their life, regardless of what car they drive.”
Source: www.media.vw.com
VOLKSWAGEN REPORTS 30TH CONSECUTIVE MONTH OF SALES GROWTH
3/1/13 Herndon, VA - Volkswagen of America, Inc. (VWoA) today reported 31,456 units delivered in February, a 2.9 percent increase over prior year sales and the best February since 1973.
"February's sales results and 30 consecutive months of growth reflects increasing consumer interest in our products," said Jonathan Browning, President and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. “With a full range of fuel-efficient vehicles, seven of which deliver more than 40 mpg on the highway and the best start to a year in 29 years, we anticipate continued strong demand for our vehicles into the spring selling season.”
Jetta sedan, the volume leader for Volkswagen, delivered 10,398 units. Jetta SportWagen closed the month with 1,570 units, up 37.2 percent versus the prior year. The Jetta TDI SportWagen was recently named the 2013 Best Overall Value of the Year in the Compact Crossover/Wagon Class by IntelliChoice.
The Chattanooga-built Passat continued to deliver strong results with 7,532 units sold and 29.6 percent of those were diesel.
The Beetle and Beetle Convertible delivered a combined 2,991 and 705 units, respectively, for the month. Volkswagen recently unveiled the Beetle GSR at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show. The GSR (Gelb Schwarzer Renner or “Yellow Black Racer”), will go on sale this fall and will include an upgraded version of the award-winning EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder TSI® engine that generates 210 horsepower. With this new model, Volkswagen has re-interpreted the 1970s GSR for the modern era. Volkswagen recently announced plans to produce the next generation EA888 engines in a brand-new, $550 million engine plant in Silao, Mexico.
Source: www.media.vw.com
VOLKSWAGEN DEBUTS NEW GTI AT THE GENEVA AUTO SHOW
2/26/13 Wolfsburg, Germany - Following tradition, Volkswagen will introduce the latest version of the Golf GTI at the Geneva International Motor Show. For the first time, the iconic hot hatch is available at launch with two power levels: 220 horsepower; or 230 hp with the optional performance pack.
The new GTI is powered by a turbocharged direct-injection gasoline engine (TSI®) that makes 220 hp and 258 pound-feet of torque in standard form. Volkswagen is offering a factory-installed performance pack for the first time, which boosts power to 230 hp and adds bigger brakes and a torque-sensing limited-slip differential. Both versions are equipped with a Stop-Start system, fulfill the EU-6 emissions standard that takes effect in 2014, and attain the same excellent DIN gas mileage figure of 39.2 mpg—which equates to 139 g/km of CO2—when equipped with the six-speed manual transmission. This means that the new GTI offers an 18 percent improvement in fuel economy compared to the previous model. With the optional six-speed DSG® dual-clutch automatic transmission, the 220- and 230-hp GTIs return 36.8 and 36.2 mpg respectively (equivalent to 148 and 150 g/km CO2).
The sporty nature of the Golf GTI is reflected in its red-painted brake calipers, twin chrome tailpipes, and a lowered sport suspension. The exterior of the compact hatchback also scores with 17-inch “Brooklyn” GTI wheels and 225/45 tires, special side skirts, a rear diffuser, and smoked LED taillights with LED license-plate illumination.
Source: www.media.vw.com
VOLKSWAGEN ANNOUNCES LAUNCH OF XL1, THE WORLD’S MOST EFFICIENT PRODUCTION CAR
2/21/13 Wolfsburg, Germany - The XL1 from Volkswagen is the most fuel-efficient production car in the world, with a European combined fuel consumption rating of 261 mpg. Thanks to its plug-in hybrid system, this two-seat vehicle can also cover up to 32 miles as a zero-emissions vehicle in all-electric mode.
The XL1 is an automotive standout that follows pure sports-car design principles: light weight (1753 pounds), exceptional aerodynamics (Cd 0.19), and a low center of gravity. This super-efficient Volkswagen thus has the ability to cruise down the road at a constant 62 mph while using just 8.3 horsepower. In all-electric mode, the XL1 requires less than 0.1 kWh to cover more than a kilometer.
The XL1 emits just 21 g/km of CO2, thanks to its high-tech lightweight design, aerodynamic efficiency, and a plug-in hybrid system consisting of a 47-hp two-cylinder TDI® engine, a 27-hp electric motor, a seven-speed DSG® dual-clutch automatic transmission, and a lithium-ion battery. The 261 mpg fuel consumption figure is a record that has not been achieved by any other vehicle to date, showing that Volkswagen is redefining what is technically feasible in the automotive industry. The XL1 also has a top speed of 99 mph and can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 12.7 seconds.
Conceptually, the XL1 represents the third evolutionary stage of Volkswagen’s 1-liter car strategy. When the new millennium was ushered in, Prof. Dr. Ferdinand Piëch, currently Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Volkswagen AG, formulated the visionary goal of putting into production a practical car that had combined fuel consumption of one liter per 100 km (235 mpg). In the two-seat XL1, this vision has become reality.
Source: www.media.vw.com
NEW VOLKSWAGEN GOLF GTD MAKES ITS WORLD DEBUT AT THE GENEVA SHOW
2/21/12 Wolfsburg, Germany - Over the past three decades, fans of the Golf GTD have been excited by the car’s combination of fuel efficiency and sporty performance and looks. At this year’s Geneva International Motor Show, Volkswagen debuts the latest version of this fuel-sipping sporty compact, which features a 184-hp version of the new EA288 TDI turbocharged, direct-injection, four-cylinder diesel engine that already complies with the challenging EU-6 emissions standard.
The first Golf GTD in 1982 revolutionized the sporty compact segment with its turbodiesel engine, sporty demeanor, and its GTI-style features. This year’s GTD is the most powerful ever and is based on the seventh-generation Golf.
With184 horsepower and an impressive 280 pound-feet of torque that’s delivered from just 1750 rpm, the new Golf GTD combines the dual roles of highly efficient long-distance tourer and dynamic backroad performer. When equipped with the six-speed manual transmission, the GTD has an EC combined fuel economy figure of 56 mpg, some feat considering the car can also reach a top speed of 143 mph. This combined fuel consumption figure equates to CO2 emissions of just 109 g/km. With the optional six-speed DSG® dual-clutch automatic transmission, the combined fuel consumption is 50 mpg.
Visually, the Golf GTD makes a statement through smoked LED taillights with LED licence-plate illumination; chrome dual tailpipes;17-inch GTD wheels with 225/45 tires; a lowered sport suspension; and body enhancements that include side skirts, a rear diffuser, and a large roof spoiler.
Source: www.media.vw.com
VOLKSWAGEN UNVEILS THE LIMITED-EDITION BEETLE GSR AT THE CHICAGO AUTO SHOW
2/7/13 Wolfsburg / Chicago., - Forty years ago, the sportiest version of the classic Volkswagen Beetle made its debut. Called the GSR (Gelb Schwarzer Renner or “Yellow Black Racer”), the vehicle was based on a 1303S and was instantly recognizable by its color scheme. Just 3500 units were built and they are now collectors’ items.
Today, at the Chicago Auto Show, Volkswagen of America, Inc. pays homage to that 1970s’ model with the world unveiling of the 2014 Beetle GSR. Striking in yellow and black, just like its predecessor, the GSR also debuts an uprated version of the award-winning EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder TSI® engine that generates 210 horsepower. This engine will be fitted to the Jetta GLI and Beetle Turbo during the 2013 model year, boosting their power by 10 hp.
With this new car, Volkswagen has re-interpreted the 1970s GSR for the modern era. The bodyshell of the 1973 Beetle was painted yellow, while the hood, trunklid, and bumpers were finished in matte black. The look was rounded out by black trim strips underneath the side windows and black rocker panels. Yellow and black link old and new: the body and the R-Line® bumpers on the new GSR are predominantly yellow, the hood is mainly black, and the trunklid, roof, and the exterior mirror caps are all black. The new car has yellow/black stripes with “GSR” lettering above the side skirts and a large rear spoiler to complete the look. The stance of the new car is very different, as it rides on 19-inch “Tornado” aluminum-alloy wheels shod with 235/40 tires, compared with the original GSR’s 15-inch steel wheels and 175-section tires, which were quite common even on sporty cars back then. The new GSR also features silver-painted brake calipers.
Source: media.vw.com
VOLKSWAGEN INTRODUCES PERFORMANCE INSPIRED R-LINE® TRIM ON BEETLE CONVERTIBLE
2/7/13 Herndon, VA / Chicago, - Volkswagen of America, Inc. announced today at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show that it will offer the R-Line trim on another model for the U.S. market. Joining the CC R-Line, Beetle R-Line coupe, and the recently introduced Tiguan R-Line and Touareg R-Line, the Beetle Convertible R-Line will be added to the Volkswagen line-up for model year 2014.
Augmenting the Beetle Convertible Turbo’s impressive list of standard equipment, the Beetle Convertible R-Line adds performance-inspired exterior and interior treatments. On the outside, the R-Line features unique 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels on lower-profile all-season tires. Paired with the Beetle Turbo’s sport-tuned suspension, the combination gives more dynamic driving characteristics. Additional enhancements include an R-Line badge on the front grille and Bi-Xenon headlights with LED DRLs.
Inside, the Beetle Convertible R-Line features “metallic-finish” dash and door trim; a sporty flat-bottom R-Line multi-function leather steering wheel; stainless-steel R-Line scuff plates; aluminum sport pedals; and leather sport seating surfaces. Other interior appointments include the RNS 315 navigation system; Keyless access with push-button start; and the award-winning Fender® Premium Audio System, which delivers rich sound via a 10-channel, 400 watt amplifier with eight speakers and a rear subwoofer. Beetle Convertible R-Line pricing will be announced closer to launch later this year.
Source: www.media.vw.com
VOLKSWAGEN ANNOUNCES LIMITED-EDITION GTI MODELS
2/7/13 Herndon, VA / Chicago, - Volkswagen announced today that it will offer two limited-edition models for the GTI for the 2013 model year. The GTI Wolfsburg Edition and GTI Driver’s Edition will be offered in limited quantities for the final model year of the sixth-generation hot-hatch. The limited-edition models are available in four-door guise only and are offered in three colors—Candy White, Carbon Steel Gray, and Deep Black.
The first to go on sale is the GTI Wolfsburg Edition, which will be in dealerships during the first quarter of 2013. Featuring the well-equipped GTI’s standard trim, the Wolfsburg Edition adds 18-inch “Laguna” wheels, a retro-themed golf ball shifter knob, and red-stitched carpeted floormats. The Wolfsburg Edition will start at $25,095 for a six-speed manual transmission version or $26,195 when equipped with a six-speed DSG® dual-clutch automatic transmission. There will be a total of 2000 Wolfsburg Edition models.
Arriving early in the second quarter of 2013 is the GTI Driver’s Edition. This takes the GTI Sunroof and Navigation package and adds the 18-inch aluminum-alloy Laguna wheels, a golf ball shifter knob, red-stitched carpeted floormats, and partial leather seat coverings. Just 3000 units will be sold in the U.S., priced from $29,695 with the manual transmission and from $30,795 for the version with the six-speed DSG gearbox.
Source: www.media.vw.com
EPA RECOGNIZES VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA CHATTANOOGA OPERATIONS, LLC AMONG NATION’S LEADING GREEN POWER USERS
2/5/13 Chattanooga, Tenn., - Volkswagen Group of America Chattanooga Operations, LLC announced today that for the first time it appears as No. 11 on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA's) Top 20 On-site list of the largest green power purchasers. Volkswagen Group of America Chattanooga Operations, LLC hosts an on-site solar array, where more than 13 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of green power annually are generated, which is enough green power to meet 12 percent of the organization's electricity use. The Volkswagen Chattanooga Solar Park is the biggest solar installation at any U.S. auto factory.
“This is a huge honor and we are proud to be recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency,” said Frank Fischer, CEO and Chairman of Volkswagen Chattanooga. “Using green power helps our organization to improve our environmental efficiency according to Volkswagen’s Think blue. Factory strategy and confirms our status as the only LEED Platinum certified auto plant in the world.”
Green power is electricity that is generated from environmentally preferable renewable resources, such as wind, solar, geothermal, biogas, biomass, and low-impact hydro. On-site green power is deployed directly at energy users’ facilities rather than at central power plants. Green power electricity generates less pollution than conventional power and produces no net increase in greenhouse gas emissions.
“EPA is excited to welcome Volkswagen Chattanooga as a Green Power Partner and applauds the organization’s impressive use of on-site solar power,” said Blaine Collison, Director of EPA’s Green Power Partnership. “Volkswagen Chattanooga is helping to reduce harmful air pollution and demonstrating that using green power is smart for the environment and for business.”
Source: www.media.vw.com
VOLKSWAGEN CHATTANOOGA POWERS UP LARGEST SOLAR PARK IN TENNESSEE
3/1/13 The solar installation at Volkswagen Chattanooga confirms the awarding of the highly-coveted LEED Platinum certification to VW by the U.S Green Building Council in late 2011. At that time, the Building Council called the Chattanooga manufacturing facility “the world’s greenest auto plant” and noted it was the first automotive manufacturing plant in the world to receive the top LEED certification. Today, the Chattanooga plant remains the only auto plant worldwide to earn the LEED Platinum certification.
The Volkswagen Chattanooga Solar Park occupies 33 acres, or half of the 66-acre land parcel adjacent to VW’s state-of-the-art manufacturing plant. The solar park contains 33,600 solar modules from JA Solar designed to produce 13.1 gigawatt hours of electricity per year -- equivalent to the energy consumed annually by around 1,200 homes in the area.
The electricity produced from the solar park is expected to meet 12.5% of the energy needs of Volkswagen’s Chattanooga manufacturing plant during full production and 100% during non-production periods. The plant covers 1.9 million square feet and employs more than 3,000 people who manufacture the highly-acclaimed Volkswagen Passat sedan. For Volkswagen, the solar park in Chattanooga will rank as the automaker’s largest photovoltaic installation worldwide.
Source: www.media.vw.com
Volkswagen Scores Awards as 2012 Comes to a Close January 18, 2013 by keffervw
Many Volkswagens have been honored as Insurance Institute of Highway Safety Top Safety Picks, and now the IIHS has added a new distinction. Vehicles that pass the new “small overlap test” will be called a “Top Safety Pick+.” This new test simulates what happens when the front corner of a car collides with another vehicle or an object like a tree or utility pole. In the test, 25 percent of a car’s front end on the driver side strikes a five-foot-tall rigid barrier at 40 mph. The Passat scored high enough on the test to receive this new distinction. Also getting new awards before the New Year are the Golf and the GTI. Car and Driver magazine named both vehicles to their 10Best list as a joint entry. Both vehicles have won this award three years running, and for the GTI this is the seventh such honor overall. In their review of the 10Best, Car and Driver called the GTI “… the car that every hatchback would like to be when it grows up.” READ MORE HERE: http://vwnews.net/
VOLKSWAGEN WINS 2012 POLK AUTOMOTIVE LOYALTY AWARD
1/16/13 Herndon, VA - Volkswagen of America, Inc. was presented with the 2012 Polk Automotive Loyalty Award for Most Improved Loyalty to Make at last night’s Automotive News World Congress in Detroit, Michigan.
Polk, the worldwide leader in automotive intelligence and solutions, analyzed more than 5.9 million new vehicle owners who bought new vehicles during the 2012 model year to determine the winners.
“Generally speaking, brand growth strategies are focused on conquesting new customers while retaining existing customers,” said Brad Smith, director of Polk’s Loyalty Management Practice. “Volkswagen’s six percentage point increase in owner loyalty is evidence of a strong focus on customer retention in the U.S. market and one that complements their objective of increasing sales globally.”
Loyalty is determined when a household that owns a new vehicle returns to market and purchases or leases another new vehicle of the same model or make.
“Volkswagen has made headlines with historic sales growth in the U.S. market and it begins with the company’s commitment to the consumer,” said Robert Martell, Vice President of Customer Experience at Volkswagen of America, who was on hand to accept the award. “Polk’s Automotive Loyalty Award recognizes our commitment to an industry-leading consumer experience that turns first-time Volkswagen owners into lifelong Volkswagen enthusiasts.”
Source: www.media.vw.com
VOLKSWAGEN’S “THE FORCE” NAMED ONE OF THE TOP 10 AUTO COMMERCIALS OF THE LAST 25 YEARS
1/16/13 Herndon, VA - Volkswagen of America, Inc. was honored by The One Club at the North American International Auto Show in recognition of three of its advertisements, including 2011’s “The Force”, being named within the “Top 10” list of the best automobile commercials from the past 25 years.
The One Club is the world's foremost non-profit organization devoted to elevating creative work in the industry. One of advertising’s most prestigious international awards competitions, the 10 best auto commercials were determined from over 60 award-winning entries, which included past One Club winners, and juried by a panel of over 70 top advertising creatives and journalists.
“’The Force’s’ presence on such a prestigious list is a testament to Volkswagen’s uncompromising devotion to creativity,” said Tim Mahoney, Chief Product and Marketing Officer, Volkswagen of America. “We are honored by this recognition and look forward to building on Volkswagen’s advertising legacy of creating human stories told simply in the years to come.”
“The Force”, which featured the 2012 Passat and mini Darth Vader, became a pop culture phenomenon overnight when it premiered online prior to the Big Game in 2011. Named the top advertisement of 2011 by Adweek, the ad has over 55 million views on YouTube®.
Source: www.media.vw.com
VOLKSWAGEN INTRODUCES PERFORMANCE INSPIRED R-LINE® TRIM ON TOUAREG AND TIGUAN SUVS
1/11/13 Herndon, VA - Volkswagen of America, Inc. announced today it will offer the R-Line derivative on two additional models for the U.S. market. Joining the CC R-Line and recently introduced Beetle R-Line coupe, the Tiguan R-Line and Touareg R-Line will be added to the Volkswagen line-up for model year 2014. Both models will be introduced at the 2013 North American International Auto Show.
The Touareg R-Line and Tiguan R-Line models feature an aggressive appearance package and interior enhancements that provide an all-around dynamic and sporting appearance. Volkswagen R GmbH has developed the R-Line for drivers who want the sporty and aggressive styling of the Volkswagen R models, but without the additional engine performance.
Tiguan R-Line
Enhancing the Tiguan SEL’s impressive list of standard equipment, the Tiguan R-Line adds performance-inspired exterior and interior treatments. The R-Line is available in front-wheel-drive or 4Motion® all-wheel-drive configuration and features the award-winning 2.0-liter TSI® turbocharged four-cylinder engine from the iconic Volkswagen GTI.
On the outside, the R-Line features unique “Mallory” 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels on lower-profile all-season tires. Paired with a sport-tuned suspension, the combination allows for more dynamic driving characteristics. Additional enhancements include body-colored side-skirts featuring chrome trim; wheelarch extensions; R-Line rear spoiler; LED license plate illumination; and a front grille mounted R-Line badge. Bi-xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights are also standard.
Source: www.media.vw.com Click to read the entire article
VOLKSWAGEN REPORTS 35.1 PERCENT INCREASE IN 2012 U.S. SALES
1/3/13 Herndon, VA - Volkswagen of America, Inc. (VWoA) today reported 438,133 units delivered in 2012, a 35.1 percent increase over prior year sales. December deliveries totaled 44,005, up 35.4 percent over 2011, marking the best December since 1970.
“2012 marked another successful year of growth for Volkswagen of America,” said Jonathan Browning, President and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. “The Volkswagen brand delivered another important step in our long-term growth plan. 2012 marked the third consecutive year of significant double-digit growth rates and we more than doubled our volume of 2009. With the addition of the all-new Jetta Turbo Hybrid, Beetle Convertible and our strong dealer network, we expect to continue to outpace the industry in 2013.”
The Chattanooga-built Volkswagen Passat, continues to demonstrate its strong appeal in the market with 14,462 units sold in December and 117,023 for the year, marking its best sales ever.
Jetta sedan sales totaled in 13,102 in December and 146,478 for the year, demonstrating that affordable German Engineering is a key selling point for the brand. The Jetta Turbo Hybrid, which received EPA ratings of 42 mpg city, 48 mpg highway for a combined mileage of 45 mpg, was added to the Jetta line-up in December.
The Beetle sold 29,174 units for the year and 3,182 for the month of December. Golf sales increased 15.9 percent for the year and 4.7 percent increase in December sales. The Tiguan sold 3,310 units in December and 31,731 units for the year marking its best December and year ever. The Touareg saw an increase in sales of 40.1 percent for the year and 26.1 percent for December. The only affordable four-door coupe, the Volkswagen CC, sold 2,196 units in December.
Volkswagen’s high-mileage, TDI® Clean Diesel models account for 20.6 percent of sales in 2012 and 16.7 percent in December.
Source: http://media.vw.com/pressrelease/1330/110/volkswagen-reports-35.1-percent-increase-2012-u.s-sales
2013 Volkswagen Beetle TDI Convertible
VOLKSWAGEN CLAIMS BEST HIGHWAY FUEL EFFICIENCY, WITH SEVEN MODELS THAT ACHIEVE MORE THAN 40 MPG
12/31/12 Want proof that diesel is finally taking hold in North America? Look no further than this 2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible. For a while now, it's become easier to understand why more automakers are opting to pair their large-volume models with diesel, but it's only when a given technology or feature starts to infiltrate the industry's smaller segments that we can argue that something has truly taken hold. After an agonizingly slow buildup, we're prepared to say that the high-mileage fuel has finally come of age here, and the evidence is right under this VW's bulbous hood.
Consider this: Diesel has become so viable that it's trickled down to this car, a niche-within-a-niche-within-a-niche model. Niche number one? The Beetle is a retro-styled spinoff of VW's volume hatchback, the Golf. Niche number two? It's a convertible. It isn't until we get to niche number three that we even discuss its oil-burning nature. In fact, if you want to get even more stratified, the Tornado Red tester seen before you has a manual transmission, itself a lamentably narrow sliver of the marketplace. Yes, the outgoing New Beetle was offered here with TDI power, but its convertible variant never was. We've watched for years as Europe has played host to a whole mess of diesel droptops, but we simply can't remember the last time one was offered here.
That Volkswagen is bringing this triple-specific model to its North American dealers not only says a lot about the confidence it has in its TDI powertrains, it also says something about the company's relentless drive for volume, a fever pitch that seemingly cannot abide any white space left unfulfilled.
Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/03/2013-volkswagen-beetle-tdi-convertible-first-drive-review/ Beetle R-Line coming to America, orders now being accepted 12/28/12 Volkswagen has jilted American enthusiasts once, by denying them the chance to pilot the Scirocco in the US. In September, it seemed like the German automaker was going to take the same course of action with the sporty Beetle R-Line. Now, comes word that the R-Line bug may be headed our way after all. This news comes from AskAVWSalesGuy.com. As you may have guessed, it is a blog written by a Volkswagen salesperson. According to the recent post, Volkswagen is now taking orders for the new Beetle R-Line, with delivery set for February or early March.
We've reached out to Volkswagen and it has been confirmed that the R-Line version of the Beetle will he coming to the US. In fact, it was brought to our attention that this news broke back in November, but may have been overshadowed by the buzz around the Beetle Convertible.
If you recall, the R-Line is the latest in what is becoming a growing family of Volkswagen Beetle variants. The package includes revised bodywork, 19-inch alloy wheels, bi-xenon headlights, LED running lights and LED license plate lights. Inside the R-Line receives leather seating surfaces and a navigation system. In Europe, the exterior package alone will cost 1,290 euros (about $1,665) and both the exterior and interior combined will set you back 1,675 euros ($2,162). European customers can select this package with either the 1.4 TSI Beetle or the TDI model. US pricing for this package has not yet been announced, but it is worth noting that the R-Line will be offered only on the Beetle Turbo.
Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/beetle-r-line-coming-to-america-orders-now-being-accepted/ Volkswagen Group of America Dedicated to Helping Those Devastated by Hurricane Sandy 10/31/12 Herndon, VA - The Volkswagen of America Foundation, on behalf of the Volkswagen Group of America, announced today that it will make an immediate donation of $500,000 to the American Red Cross for Hurricane Sandy relief to provide support for affected areas across the Northeast. "Given the scale of the storm and its severity in several states throughout the Northeast, the Volkswagen of America Foundation has decided to provide resources to the American Red Cross, who can then allocate the resources where needed," said Jonathan Browning, President and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. "It is our hope that this donation will provide some relief to those affected and help them rebuild their communities and their lives." The donation will help cover costs of shelter, food, recovery and other assistance to families affected by the storm. Volkswagen would like to express their thoughts and concern for all of its customers, dealers, employees and their families who have been affected by the storm. Additionally, Volkswagen will provide matching funds to any employee donations made to the American Red Cross or the organization of their choosing. The Volkswagen of America Foundation was formed by the Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. to make grants to organizations that provide disaster relief.
Source: www.vw.com
Wolfsburg, Germany - The Volkswagen Group successfully mastered the challenges posed by a difficult market environment in 2012, again posting record vehicle sales, sales revenue and earnings. “Volkswagen is feeling the headwinds –especially in Europe. Nevertheless we remain guardedly confident”, said Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft, on Thursday during the presentation of the Company’s 2012 financial results.
The Volkswagen Group not only turned in a compelling operational performance in the past fiscal year – it also met its targets for major strategic projects: The Porsche brand has been wholly owned by Volkswagen since August 1, 2012 and Ducati, a legendary motorcycle brand, has now joined the Group family. A leading mobility group needs a strong commercial vehicles business – and the alliance between MAN, Scania and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles means that the groundwork for this has been laid. The launch of the Modular Transverse Toolkit in 2012 ushered in a new era in passenger cars. In addition, Volkswagen became the first carmaker to commit to the CO2 target of 95g/km by 2020.
Source: www.media.vw.com
VOLKSWAGEN ANNOUNCES PRODUCTION OF THE GOLF IN MEXICO
1/25/13 Puebla, Mexico / Herndon, VA - Volkswagen announced today that it will begin to produce the next-generation Golf at its Volkswagen de México manufacturing facility in Puebla, Mexico. Production of the seventh-generation Golf will commence at the company’s plant in Mexico in the first quarter of 2014.
Localization has become increasingly important in automotive manufacturing as a way to safeguard against currency fluctuations and to be closer to the market in which the manufacturer sells. Golf models made at Volkswagen de México’s plant will be supplied to the North and South American markets.
“The Puebla, Mexico plant offers an excellent economic basis for Volkswagen production operations and is a well-established automotive manufacturing facility with a record of efficiency and high quality,” said Hubert Waltl, Member of the Board of Management of the Volkswagen Passenger Cars Brand with responsibility for Production. “With its existing infrastructure, competitive cost structures and free trade agreements, Mexico is the ideal location to produce the Golf for the American market.”
The decision to produce the Golf in Mexico builds on Volkswagen’s strategy for the North American market. Investments of more than $5 billion are planned in the U.S. and Mexico in the next three years, thereby laying the foundation for further growth in the North American market. Key investments are the opening of new plants in Silao, Mexico, for the 1.8- and 2.0-liter turbocharged EA888 engines and the planned Audi production facility in San José Chiapa, Mexico.
Source: www.media.vw.com
Volkswagen Chattanooga Powers Up Largest Solar Park in Tennessee
1/23/13 Chattanooga, Tenn - Volkswagen today “powered up” the largest single solar installation at an automotive manufacturing facility in the United States and the biggest solar installation in the state of Tennessee. At a dedication ceremony here, dignitaries today flipped a giant light switch to signal the official opening of the “Volkswagen Chattanooga Solar Park”, built on Volkswagen’s compound in Chattanooga.
This is the third time that a Volkswagen has been declared the “World Car of the Year”. The Volkswagen Polo won the honour in 2010 and the Golf VI won the title in 2009 making it two consecutive years in a row.
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