VW says it's growing

Volkswagen SA has announced a whole raft of export initiatives, which will mean more jobs and a brand-new model to replace the Citi Golf, the Polo Vivo - the previous model Polo now given a new life.

MD David Powels has announced significant developments impacting on the company's global export programme, new jobs and a new parts and accessories distribution centre in Centurion.

The company started to export the new Polo to right-hand drive countries around the world in 2009 and by year end 19 000 had been sent to the United Kingdom, Ireland, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand, Cyprus and Malta.

This RHD market has now been upped to 55 000 units and has also been extended to include LHD bringing the total to 71 500.

"This is a huge vote of confidence on the part of the Volkswagen Group on our manufacturing capability in our Uitenhage Plant", says Powels.

"In addition, Volkswagen of South Africa will be the sole producer of the new Cross Polo announced at the Geneva Motor Show on March 2. During the course of 2010, we will produce approximately 12 000 Cross Polos for markets around the world".

At the same time, Powels announced important engine export contracts to India and China.

"During the course of 2010, we will export in excess 8 500 EA111 engines to India and approximately 30 000 of these engines to China. This development promises significant growth potential in future years".

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