Volkswagen has announced a new global strategy that will focus on electric cars, autonomous driving technology and connected car systems – with 30 new ‘e-vehicles’ due by 2025.
Announced at a press conference today (Thursday 16th June) VW Group CEO Matthias Müller revealed the ‘Together – Strategy 2025’ plans, which will contribute to a forecast electric vehicles sales target of two to three million units a year by 2025.
Similarly ambitious announcements in regards to zero-emission fleets have been made recently from other manufacturing giants. Combined with the increased spotlight on the company in the wake of the emissions scandal, VW is clearly trying to improve customer confidence and future profitability.
Battery technology is highlighted as a particular area of focus for the group’s newly reshuffled portfolio, while it was announced that ‘double-digit billion’ investment in future technologies is projected within the next nine years.
Described my Müller as the biggest change process in Volkswagen history, the CEO went on to say: “Volkswagen has always enriched the lives of millions of people all over the world with its brands and products. Our aspiration is to continue that success story and play a leading role in shaping auto-mobility for future generations, too.
“This will require us – following the serious setback as a result of the diesel issue – to learn from mistakes made, rectify shortcomings and establish a corporate culture that is open, value-driven and rooted in integrity.”
Special emphasis is to be placed on the e-vehicles part of the strategy, with previous expectations of 20+ cars already increased to 30 new electric models. If sales hit forecasts, battery electric vehicles will account for 20-25 per cent of total VW Group unit sales by 2025.
A complete autonomous driving system is expected to be rolled-out by the end of the decade, while mobility services including ride hailing, robotaxis, and car sharing projects are all included in Together – Strategy 2025.
This strategy is only a framework currently, but VW will announce fleshed-out plans in greater detail before the end of the year.
