Magnificent seven for Volkswagen at the 2025 What Car? Awards

The Volkswagen Passat scooped three prestigious accolades at the 2025 What Car? Awards. The ever-popular car – which has been in production for more than half a century – was named Estate of the Year and Tow Car of the Year. It also won the Safety Award, following extensive testing by Thatcham Research, and replicating the success of the all-electric ID.7 at last year’s What Car? awards. What Car? also handed awards to the Volkswagen T-Roc, ID.7 Tourer, Golf GTI and the ID. Buzz with long wheelbase (LWB) – bringing the total on the night to seven for stablemates Volkswagen Passenger Cars and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. The ninth-generation Passat went on sale in the UK in January last year and quickly accumulated awards and plaudits from reviewers. In June it was crowned the overall winner in the What Car? Tow Car Awards. This was followed a few weeks later by a top rating of five stars in Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) tests, and it was named Best Hybrid Estate Car at the What Car? Electric Car Awards. “The Passat has always been a great family estate, and the latest version is the best yet,” said Steve Huntingford, What Car? Editor, after the three latest awards were announced. “It's a comfortable, refined and hugely practical choice with a smart interior, plus it can make a cheap company car if you go for one of the plug-in hybrid versions. In fact, the Passat is such a superb all-rounder that it's not only the best estate on sale, but also the best tow car and one of the safest cars Euro NCAP has ever crash tested.” The latest Passat is one of the most aerodynamic estate models that Volkswagen has produced so far. Its coefficient of drag (Cd) is just 0.25 – lower than many sports cars – making this a particularly economical and cost-effective choice for anyone looking for a modern estate car. It is built on the latest version of Volkswagen Group’s hugely successful modular transverse matrix platform, MQB evo, which allows for a host of new systems to be included and is being used also for the new Tiguan. More than 34 million Volkswagen Passat models have been sold worldwide since the covers came off the first generation in 1973, and the ninth-generation model is continuing this success. Awards also for T-Roc, ID.7 Tourer, Golf GTI and ID. Buzz Four more awards were handed to Volkswagen models at this year’s What Car? Awards: T-Roc named Best Small SUV for Comfort Steve Huntingford said: “Comfort is something the T-Roc does better than any other small SUV. It's among the quietest and most spacious cars of its kind, and has a plush ride that's brilliant at soaking up bumps. What's more, its elevated seating provides easy access and a great view, and finding an ideal driving position is a doddle.” ID.7 Tourer named Best Electric Estate Steve Huntingford said: “Not so long ago, estate buyers after pure electric power had few prospects to pick from, but that's all changed in the past couple of years, making the ID.7 Tourer's win all the more impressive. It is composed and reassuring to drive, offers a longer range than rivals and, of course, delivers all the space and practicality you’d expect.” Golf GTI named Best Hot Hatch for Everyday Usability Steve Huntingford said: “The Golf GTI flows beautifully with bumps and undulations in the road, so is exceptionally comfortable by hot hatch standards. Yet, it still offers the sort of driving fun that will tempt you to take the twisty way home. Combine all this with a practical interior and it's a pleasure to live with day to day.” ID. Buzz LWB named Best Electric Seven-seater Steve Huntingford said: “No rival can match the ID. Buzz LWB for sheer roominess; it's a vehicle that can take seven people and their luggage with ease. And because it uses the same mechanicals as Volkswagen’s other electric vehicles, it has a comfortable ride and handles with real aplomb. It even makes financial sense, thanks to strong predicted resale values.” Article source: www.vwpress.co.uk

Volkswagen at the Bremen Classic Motorshow: Celebrating 50 Years of the Polo

A versatile small car for everyone: the Polo has been delighting people for 50 years. With more than 20 million units sold worldwide, it is a true success model. To kick off the 2025 anniversary year, Volkswagen is presenting a duo from the first generation at the Bremen Classic Motorshow: a Polo L from 1975 and a hill climb Polo from 1977. The Volkswagen Classic team has selected two special models from the first Polo generation for the vintage and modern classic car exhibition in northern Germany: the Polo L from 1975 represents the beginnings of the small car from Wolfsburg. Small, functional and with a pared-down design, the model in Oceanic Blue shows how the foundation was laid for the success story of the Polo, which was only 3.50 metres long at the time. With a 0.9-litre engine and an output of 29 kW (40 PS), the Polo with a weight of just 685 kilograms boasts a top speed of 132 km/h. The more upscale, optional L equipment gave the Polo the insignia of a certain luxury – with side trim strips, two-speed blower and carpet. In addition, with its large boot lid and folding rear bench seat, the Polo L could be loaded with a generous 900 litres. "Small size. Large space” was how the sales literature described it at the time. “A solid, reliable and economical Volkswagen, with space for four people and a modern, water-cooled drive system” – a concept that would prove itself. Quality, innovative spirit, versatility, comfort and economy have characterised all six model generations of the Polo right up to the present day – making it a national and international bestseller with 20 million units sold. The anniversary model will be accompanied by an athlete: the hill climb Polo from 1977 impressively demonstrates the model’s sporty DNA. The wider and lowered motorsport vehicle was used as a race car for around 20 years. After around two years of restoration, the overhauled model raced again for the first time in 2022 at the Osnabrück hill climb race as part of the International Hill Climb Cup. The one-off model based on a Polo I in Bali Green with a capacity of 1,300 ccm impressed with an output of 81 kW (110 PS) and a top speed of approx. 150 km/h. It was also equipped with a shorter gear ratio and a safety-relevant rollover cage for use in racing. The key data for a visit. Both Volkswagen Polos will be on display at Stand D08 in Hall 5 at the Bremen Classic Motorshow from 31 January to 2 February 2025. Volkswagen Classic will be present here together with Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Oldtimer, Audi Tradition, Škoda and the Autostadt in Wolfsburg; they will also do their part to make it possible to experience automotive history first-hand. The exhibition is one of the most important events for classic vehicles at the start of the year and traditionally attracts numerous interested visitors from all over Europe. Around 50,000 visitors are expected this year. Article source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com

1.7 million deliveries in 2024: Audi forges ahead with its model initiative

Audi delivered around 1.7 million vehicles worldwide in 2024. More than 164,000 of those were fully electric models. Reasons for this overall decline of almost 12 percent (8 percent for fully electric models) compared to the previous year included the challenging economic conditions, an intensely competitive market, and limited availability of parts. In addition, the new product portfolio is only gradually having an impact on global sales volumes. “We have a clear vision of how we are redefining Vorsprung durch Technik. Our ongoing model initiative shows the direction Audi is taking. The year 2024 was part of a transitional phase as we move towards our new product portfolio,” says Audi CEO Gernot Döllner. “Global economic uncertainties and intensified competition also shaped the past year. Despite these challenges, we are convinced that we will achieve our long-term goals. With a clear product and technology road map, Audi is systematically rejuvenating its product portfolio with over 20 new models in 2024 and 2025.” Last year, Audi already presented more than half of these, including the new battery-electric vehicles Audi Q6 e-tron and Audi A6 e-tron, plus combustion-engine vehicles such as the Audi A5 and Audi Q5. “In 2025, we will continue our model initiative and renew key model families such as the Audi A7 and the Audi Q3. Customers can look forward to numerous new plug-in hybrids as well.” After a record year in 2023, geopolitical and industrial conditions impacted delivery figures in 2024. A general economic environment characterized by stagnation and structural problems as well as a tense political situation posed major challenges for the entire automotive industry and influenced consumer behavior on an international scale. “From the beginning, 2024 was considered a transitional year. We have strong models entering the markets, but they will only gradually become significant in terms of sales volume. At the same time, some models have been phased out. Challenging economic conditions and the intransparency in terms of government incentive structures are currently causing a certain reluctance to buy affecting the entire industry, especially when it comes to fully electric vehicles,” says Marco Schubert, Board Member for Sales and Marketing. “With our three-pronged approach of electric cars, plug-in hybrids, and combustion-engine vehicles, we are positioned flexibly and robustly for the coming years and offer our customers a diverse range of premium vehicles. With our clear strategy and the strong commitment of our retail partners and international teams, we are setting ourselves up for the future.” Sales performance in Europe, North America, and China Audi delivered more than 164,000 fully electric models to customers worldwide (–8 percent) in 2024. Demand was notably strong for the Audi Q4 e-tron, with almost 108,000 units delivered globally. Since its market launch in the third quarter, the new Audi Q6 e-tron recorded almost 15,000 deliveries. In addition to the all-electric models, the Audi Q5 (298,000 units), the Audi A6 (244,000 units), and the Audi Q3 (215,000 units) sold particularly well. Audi Sport delivered more than 41,000 high-performance vehicles worldwide, a decrease of roughly 14 percent. In the USA, Audi Sport models recorded over 9,000 deliveries – their best result ever (+4 percent). With around 466,000 vehicles, the number of deliveries in Europe (excluding Germany) was almost 6 percent below the previous year. The number of electric vehicles was just below 81,000 units (+6 percent). The most popular models in Europe were the Audi A3 (84,000 units), Audi Q3 (79,000 units), and Audi Q4 e-tron (57,000 units). In Germany, Audi delivered over 198,000 cars (–21 percent). This figure includes roughly 22,000 fully electric vehicles (–33 percent). In the UK, the number of deliveries was around 123,000 units (–11 percent), in France around 48,000 units (–3 percent). For electrically powered models, Audi recorded an increase of 24 percent in France compared to 2023. Audi also showed a solid result in Italy, delivering more than 67,000 units (+1 percent), including roughly 3,000 electric vehicles (+7 percent). In Spain (incl. Canary Islands), Audi delivered over 39,000 units (–4 percent) to customers. In North America, Audi sold just below 241,000 vehicles (–13 percent) in 2024 – almost 29,000 of those were fully electric (–6 percent). In the intensely competitive market of China, Audi delivered a total of more than 649,000 cars to customers. This represents a decline of around 11 percent compared to the previous year. In the overseas and emerging markets, Audi delivered over 116,000 vehicles (–18 percent) in 2024. Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com

Volkswagen delivers around 4.8 million vehicles worldwide in 2024

Despite strong headwinds, Volkswagen delivered around 4.8 million vehicles to customers worldwide last year (1.4 per cent fewer than in the previous year). Volkswagen was again the clear market leader in Germany with a market share of 19.1 per cent, according to the German Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA). Martin Sander, Volkswagen Board Member for Sales, Marketing and After Sales: “Around the globe, 2024 was a difficult year with sluggish economic activity, political challenges and intense competition – particularly in China. Yet, we are beginning the new year with optimism. Not only do we have attractive products, but we are meeting the needs of a wide variety of customer groups with our extensive, diverse model range that covers all drive types.” The brand also boasts a broad range of battery electric vehicles (BEVs). Since launching the ID. family in 2019, Volkswagen has sold over 1.35 million units of the ID. worldwide, including around 500,000 units of the ID.3. Last year, Volkswagen sold 383,100 BEVs. Undisputed market leader in Germany and Europe In 2024, Volkswagen was again the clear market leader in Germany with a KBA market share of 19.1 per cent. The top ten most popular vehicles include as many as five Volkswagen models: the Golf, T-Roc, Tiguan, Passat and Polo. Volkswagen also topped out the German market in the BEV segment. Here, Volkswagen vehicles accounted for 16.3 per cent of new registrations, an increase of 2.8 percentage points on 2023. Delivery figures for the regions around the world: Europe: 1,254,500 deliveries (down 1.7 per cent year-on-year) South America: 479,400 deliveries (up 21.1 per cent year-on-year) North America: 592,300 deliveries (up 18.4 per cent year-on-year) China: 2,198,900 deliveries (down 8.3 per cent year-on-year) SUV trend sustained in 2024 SUVs were in high demand in 2024, both with conventional drive systems and as all-electric variants. These now account for 47 percent of total Volkswagen deliveries – an increase of 1.4 percentage points on 2023. Once again, the Tiguan was the most popular SUV and best-selling model, followed by the T-Roc – ever since the sales launch of the compact crossover model, more than 2 million units have been sold. Volkswagen will launch the next generation of the T-Roc in 2025. The Polo also provides cause for celebration this year – 50 years after its first model generation came on the market. To this day, Volkswagen’s small car remains very popular worldwide, with over 20 million units already delivered. In Brazil, for example, a record-breaking 172,510 units of the Polo were handed over to customers last year. Articles source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com

All-new Kodiaq wins prestigious 4x4 of the Year

The all-new Škoda Kodiaq is rounding off a remarkable year by winning another key industry accolade. Having already scooped a number of awards in 2024, the Czech SUV has been named 4x4 of the Year by the judging panel at Overlander 4x4 magazine. In addition to winning the overall award, the new, second-generation Kodiaq was crowned Best Medium SUV by the title. The judging panel, made up of 4x4 experts and motoring journalists, praised the new Kodiaq’s all-round ability and exceptional practicality. Despite only arriving in the UK earlier this year, the second-generation Kodiaq has already inherited its predecessor’s winning streak. Earlier this year it was named Family Car of the Year in the Scottish Car of the Award, Best Large Family Car 2025 by Carbuyer and was Highly Commended in the Carwow Awards and Parkers New Car Awards. The previous model, launched in 2016, won more than 120 industry titles during its production run. Škoda has also posted a string of strong performances in the Scottish Car of the Year Awards, with the Enyaq taking the overall Car of the Year title in 2021. Available in both seven- and five-seater forms, the new Kodiaq is the first to be offered with an advanced plug-in hybrid drivetrain that is capable of driving up to 74 miles in pure electric mode. Article source: www.skoda.co.uk

Audi F1 Project strengthened by investment from QIA

Audi and Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) team up to accelerate the preparation for the Formula 1 entry of the four rings in 2026. QIA, the sovereign wealth fund of the State of Qatar, has signed definitive agreements to acquire a significant minority stake in Sauber Holding AG, the future factory team of Audi. With this strategic investment QIA will enter the Audi Formula 1 project as a long-term investor and partner. QIA’s investment will provide a substantial capital injection and pave the way for increasing infrastructure and team buildout, positioning the team for long-term success in Formula 1. The investment is consistent with QIA’s focus on investments with long-term growth potential. Formula 1 is a fast-growing sport with significant upside potential through continued global expansion, deeper fan engagement and significant commercialisation potential. Audi will officially enter Formula 1 with a factory team with the change of the technical regulations in 2026. Both facilities in Neuburg and Hinwil are further ramping up to meet the standards needed on the road to success. With the recent announcement of Gabriel Bortoleto (20) who will race alongside Nico Hülkenberg (37), the program has taken the next important step. The announcement of the complete takeover of Sauber in March and the appointment of Mattia Binotto as CTO and COO of the project and Jonathan Wheatley as team principal from the middle of next year are expressions of the determination of the Audi brand. The investment will add to a list of important milestones in the near future. Gernot Döllner, CEO of AUDI AG and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Sauber Motorsport AG: “The investment by QIA reflects the trust and confidence the Audi F1 Project has already garnered, underscoring unwavering commitment of Audi to the initiative. This additional capital will accelerate the team’s growth and is yet another milestone on our long-term strategy. QIA’s involvement further energizes the dedicated efforts at both the Hinwil and Neuburg facilities as they work towards the entry of Audi in 2026.” Mohammed Al-Sowaidi, CEO of QIA: “Audi is a premium partner of choice with a rich motorsport legacy. As a long-standing investor in the Volkswagen Group, we believe in Audi’s vision and direction when entering Formula 1 and our investment will support the realization of this goal. QIA believes that Formula 1 is a sport with significant untapped investment potential. The increasing commercialization of professional sports as an entertainment offering globally, and the increasingly global popularity of Formula 1, has made for an exciting opportunity for our first major motorsports investment.” The transaction is subject to customary regulatory approvals. Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com

Volkswagen and PowerCo make strategic investment in North American lithium company Patriot Battery Metals

PowerCo SE, Volkswagen Group’s battery company, and Patriot Battery Metals Inc. (TSX: PMET | ASX: PMT | OTCQX: PMETF | FSE: R9GA) today announced they have entered into a strategic partnership. This is the first investment for PowerCo and Volkswagen in the lithium supply chain, underlining PowerCo’s ambition to execute on its vertical integration strategy – from mine to battery. The partnership ensures the long-term supply of lithium raw materials through a binding offtake commitment. Additionally, the companies will jointly explore further strategic opportunities such as a downstream lithium supply chain with a focus on cost competitiveness, high ESG standards and long-term security. The Volkswagen Group invests US$48 million to acquire 9.9 per cent of Patriot’s issued and outstanding common shares. The binding offtake commitment covers the supply of 100,000 tonnes of spodumene concentrate per year for a period of 10 years as soon as the Shaakichiuwaanaan Project starts production. The lithium-bearing mineral is key for the production of battery-grade lithium chemicals. The offtake represents a key strategic milestone in ramping-up PowerCo’s cell production activities in Europe and North America, including its gigafactory in St. Thomas, Canada. St.Thomas will be PowerCo’s largest cell factory with a capacity of up to 90 GWh. The strategic partnership also includes ongoing support for the development of Patriot’s Shaakichiuwaanaan Lithium Project. The project is advancing rapidly and currently ranks as one of the largest lithium pegmatite resources in the Americas, and the eighth largest lithium pegmatite resource in the world. The high-grade deposit has the potential to provide long-term security to PowerCo’s battery cell factories. Furthermore, the strategic partnership involves PowerCo and Patriot working together to establish industry best practice for ESG standards across all of their joint activities. This includes, for example, waste disposal measures, water management, First Nations community engagement and implementing actions to meet PowerCo’s and Patriot’s carbon emission targets. On the basis of a non-binding, non-exclusive Memorandum of Understanding, both companies will additionally explore collaboration opportunities to establish a sustainable, cost-competitive and ESG- compliant battery-grade lithium chemicals supply chain model. Thomas Schmall, Volkswagen Group Board Member for Technology, said: “This investment represents a milestone in our journey toward a fully electric future. By collaborating with Patriot Battery Metals, we are not only securing key raw materials for cutting-edge, sustainable battery technology but also reinforcing our commitment to North America. Together with partners, we are building a dedicated e-mobility ecosystem in North America, ranging from battery technology to software and specific vehicle architectures.” Jörg Teichmann, Chief Procurement Officer of PowerCo, said: “This is the next step in PowerCo’s mission to become a global battery player with roots in Europe and North America. By building a North American supply chain for EV batteries together with partners, we are strengthening our footprint in the region and driving forward the development of a resilient, sustainable battery industry. We are very pleased to have found such a partner in Patriot Battery Metals and to support the team in becoming one of the global lithium leaders and key supplier of lithium raw materials to the emerging North American and European EV ecosystem.“ Ken Brinsden, CEO & Managing Director of Patriot Battery Metals, said: “The partnership with PowerCo and the investment of Volkswagen Group is a great testament to the performance and quality of our team. At the same time, it emphasises the world-class status of the Shaakichiuwaanaan Lithium Project and the excellent prospects for Patriot Battery Metals' future role in the promising global EV supply chain.”The transaction is subject to approval from the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX). More information on the investment can be found in Patriot Battery Metals’ press release: patriotbatterymetals.com Article source: www.vwpress.co.uk