DESPITE the uncertainty in the economy brought about by the raging Covid-19 pandemic, which doesn’t show any signs of slowing down soon, the people at Volkswagen Philippines seem unfazed.
In a well-attended zoom conference, that is the norm nowadays, the company presented the direction that it will take in the future wherein it describes it as energetic, vibrant and electric but still firmly rooted to the company’s origins. Calling it as the historic crossroads for Volkswagen, the company charges into the future by employing groundbreaking automotive and digital technology on its future offerings to make the brand sustainable, inclusive and interactive for its customers.
The company’s executives, led by its charismatic president Felipe Estrella III, expressed that they’re ready to tackle the next phase of global mobility. Adhering closely to its theme “Crossing paths anew with Volkswagen,” that seems to be a reintroduction of the brand that by the way now exudes a more youthful energy that’s clearly reflected on the new design of its logo, which now symbolizes the flexibility, versatility, and the digital first quality of the brand.
An important aspect of Volkswagens’ worldwide thrust, to be more energetic, vibrant and electric, is already a reality with the introduction of its initial models from the ID family. Its offering of full electric vehicle is now in full swing as it prepares to introduce six more EV models in the next three years. This is in line with the company’s compliance with the Paris Agreement as it aims to be carbon neutral by the year 2050. Meanwhile, the company’s plan to introduce these models to the country is now becoming clearer.
The global refresh of the Volkswagen brand comes at the most opportune time as the world slowly gets back on its feet from the crippling effects of the Covid-19 pandemic last year. As the local automotive market recovers from the devastating 40 percent loss in sales last year, Volkswagen shares the enthusiasm of other manufacturers in the eventual recovery of the market in the coming months.
The lively discussion also touched on Volkswagen Philippines drive to enhance its aftersales service as embodied on its campaign, “Keep your Volkswagen running like a Volkswagen,” as it aims to provide optimum enjoyment and convenience to VW owners and would-be buyers alike by the following assurances, a once-a-year pms on all its vehicles which equate to 20 percent less cost of ownership when compared to its competitors, 3 months stock on parts, enhancements on service quality via Express service, free 24/7 emergency roadside assistance (ERA), and employing technicians trained globally by certified trainers back by on-site and virtual diagnostic support.
But wait there’s more, to usher in 2021 VW will be bringing in its highly successful T-Cross subcompact SUV which according to the company’s executive may be happening in next few months. The T-Cross is Volkswagen’s first sub-compact SUV and is produced in three key facilities worldwide namely in Brazil, China and Germany. Globally, it has been launched simultaneously in Amsterdam, Netherlands, Sao Paulo, Brazil and Shanghai, China and was well received based on its 300,000 sales last year.
The T-Cross exemplifies the automakers point that “only a Volkswagen can build a Volkswagen.” As regardless where that T-Cross came from, it follows the same global standard for each vehicle that rolls out of its production facility which is engineered and designed under Volkswagen highly strict standard for quality and safety in order to preserve the company’s integrity when it comes to quality of its products.
Aside from the T-Cross, Volkswagen announce that they’ll be introducing two more models within the year. All proudly bearing the company’s global standard for design and engineering.
Volkswagen has indeed set its sight on future mobility defined by technology, sustainability, connectivity and inclusivity. A seat has been reserved for VW Philippines on this exciting ride and the nice thing about it is we Filipinos are getting the best view on the next moves of the automotive giant.
To learn more about Volkswagen Philippines’s plan for 2021, its current line up cars and services as well, you may log on www.volkswagen.com.ph.
Image credits: Patrick P. Tulfo