VOLKSWAGEN GETS BIGGER AND BIGGER

The Volkswagen Group reported a further rise in global deliveries from January to May this year. For the first time, deliveries to customers during this period topped the three million mark, running at 3.37 million units. Over the corresponding period last year, the Company sold 2.94 million units, equating to a 14.6% increase.

Europe’s largest automaker therefore once again performed noticeably better than the world market, which averaged a 6.8% increase.

“We are very pleased with developments during the first five months of this year. The Volkswagen Group with its very convincing model range is benefiting from brisk demand on global automobile markets,” said Group Board Member for Sales Christian Klingler.

Locally, Volkswagen Group South Africa improved its January to May sales from 28 317 in 2010 to 39 218 in 2011 – an increase of some 38%. This was also substantially above the South Africa total market increase of 16% in the Passenger and LCV/MCV markets.

The Volkswagen Brand achieved sales of 29 037 units during the first five months of 2011, up 23% on the 22 989 figure over the corresponding period last year. The Audi Brand increased its sales figures from 4 501 units in 2010 to 7 126 in 2011 – some 58% more. The Commercial Vehicles Brand enjoyed the most significant growth once again – 269% – in the period from January to May, having sold 827 units last year compared to 3 055 this year.

Volkswagen Communications General Manager, Matt Gennrich, said, “An attractive product range coupled with a strong dealer network offering good service, backed by strong brands and a powerful Group gives consumers confidence even in difficult times which is reflected in our results.”

STORY BY VW