Volkswagen commercial see's significant growth wmost models growing in sales, over the January - May period.

• 195,200 vehicles delivered worldwide
• Significant growth of 7.9 per cent in Western Europe
• In Germany the brand delivers 49,700 vehicles
• T model range in double figures with 11.2 per cent growth

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles delivered 195,200 light commercial vehicles to customers from January to May, an increase of 5.7 per cent. In this period, the T model range was the top seller: the Transporter, Caravelle, Multivan and California achieved a worldwide delivery increase of 11.2 per cent at over 81,400 units. 

With a figure of 40,100 units delivered in the single month of May, brand sales were considerably higher than in the same period last year (+8.7 per cent).

Bram Schot, Member of the Board of Management of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles responsible for Sales and Marketing, said: "We are very satisfied with developments in our sales situation in the month of May. This is also due to excellent work undertaken by our dealer network in the past few months. A lot of the feedback from our customers is positive; our product portfolio is well received."

In Germany, 49,700 vehicles (+4.4 per cent) were delivered to customers during the first five months of the year. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles also increased sales in the European volume markets of Spain (+27.4 per cent to 5,600 vehicles), Italy (+26.3 per cent to 4,500 vehicles) and France (+20.1 per cent to 8.000 vehicles). In Eastern Europe the brand reported a rise of 8.2 per cent with 13,900 deliveries.

Outside Europe the following regions reported increases: North America (+19.6 per cent to 3,000 vehicles), South America (+4.0 per cent to 15,500 vehicles) and the Middle East (+1.8 per cent to 14,000 vehicles). Only Brazil (-17.9 per cent to 4,300 vehicles) and the African region (-14.6 per cent to 6,100 vehicles) recorded decreases in vehicle deliveries due to continuing difficulties in the general conditions there.

Deliveries by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles from January to May by model:

• 81,400 vehicles from the T model range (73,200; +11.2 per cent)
• 64,300 vehicles from the Caddy range (61,800; +4.0 per cent)
• 30,300 vehicles from the Amarok range (30,100; +0.9 per cent)
• 19,100 vehicles from the Crafter range (19,400; -1.8 per cent)

Volkswagen Commercial sales grow by an impressive 4.7% during the first four months, not bad considering.

• Worldwide delivery increase of 4.7 per cent
• Clear growth of 7.8 per cent in Western Europe
• In Germany the brand delivers 39,100 vehicles
• Deliveries of the T-series up by 9.4 per cent

In the first four months of the year Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles delivered 154,600 vehicles to customers worldwide – growth of 4.7 per cent. With 41,500 vehicles, the brand's deliveries in April also exceeded the previous year's level (+5.8 per cent). Particularly successful: the T-series with 64,500 Transporter, Caravelle, Multivan and California handed over to customers (+9.4 per cent).

Bram Schot, Member of the Board of Management of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles responsible for Sales and Marketing, says: "Our product offensive and customer-oriented vehicle solutions are becoming increasingly important. We would like to thank our customers for the continued great trust they place in us and our products."

On the German domestic market 39,100 light commercial vehicles were delivered between January and April this year. This corresponds to an increase of 4.0 percent. The brand's sales also increased in the European core markets Italy (+32.5 per cent to 3,700 vehicles), Spain (+25.2 per cent to 4,300 vehicles) and France (+17.9 per cent to 6,400 vehicles). The East European region also recorded a successful four months: 10,900 vehicles delivered here represent an increase of 4.1 per cent.

Outside Europe the markets of Argentina (+9.4 per cent to 7,000 vehicles) and Turkey (+1.2 per cent to 9,900 vehicles) delivered more vehicles than in the same period last year.

Due to the continued difficult situation the markets in Africa (-13.2 per cent to 4,900 vehicles), Asia-Pacific (-7.0 per cent to 6,600 vehicles), the Middle East (-2.6 per cent to 10,800 vehicles) and South America (-0.4 per cent to 12,300 vehicles) recorded a fall in sales.

Deliveries by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles from January to April by model:

• 64,500 vehicles of the T-model series (58,900; +9.4 per cent)
• 50,700 vehicles of the Caddy model series (48,800; +3.9 per cent)
• 24,200 vehicles of the Amarok model series (24,400; -0.9 per cent)
• 15,300 vehicles of the Crafter model series (15,500; -1.8 per cent)

The new VW Amorak, the Premium pickup will be the only model in its segment with a V6 turbodiesel.

• Premium pickup will be the only model in its segment with a high-performance V6 turbodiesel
• Latest generation of six-cylinder engines with up to 224 PS and 550 Nm of torque

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is raising the bar, with its premium pick-up, the Amarok, set to gain a bigger ‘heart’ and enhance its performance potential, thanks to the latest generation of Volkswagen V6 engines. 

Drivers of the Amarok can look forward in future to an additional litre of displacement offered by the 3.0-litre engine, while the pick-up will continue to boast impressive on- as well as off-road capability. Its new engine will deliver 550 Nm of torque and has an output of 224 PS.

Robust and reliable: the new agile V6 diesel engine for the Amarok meets the customer requirement for high torque at low engine speeds. The powerful top-of-the-line six-cylinder engine produces its maximum torque at only 1,500 rpm. At 550 Nm, this maximum torque is also 130 Nm higher than in the previous model. The Amarok is thus able to deliver sufficient propulsive power and torque performance in any situation.

The highest gear’s long gear ratio in the manual or 8-speed automatic gearbox reduces revs and fuel consumption during consistently fast driving, and thus helps ensure low noise levels and CO₂ emissions. The combined NEDC fuel consumption of the new Amarok with 224 PS and 8-speed automatic gearbox is expected to be 7.6 litres/100 km (around 37 mpg)*. This corresponds to a new top level of 199 grams CO₂/km *.

The model's engine is designed to be robust and long-lasting. The 3.0-litre TDI engine (2,967 cc) in the new Amarok will be available in three output levels: 120 kW / 163 PS, 150 kW / 204 PS or a top-performing 165 kW / 224 PS. All engines comply with the Euro 6 emissions standard. The most powerful engine variant will be offered first. As early as the end of September 2016, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles customers will thus be able to begin exploring the world of six-cylinder engines. (The new model is expected to go on sale in the UK before the end of 2016.)

Three different drive-system versions will be offered in line with the respective engine variants: a traditional rear-wheel drive, and a 4MOTION version with either rear-wheel drive and an engageable front axle in combination with a manual gearbox, or with a permanent all-wheel drive system and a Torsen differential with the 8-speed automatic gearbox. 

The Servotronic steering system is new in the Amarok and will be available as standard equipment in Europe. This system is one of the reasons why the Amarok can be driven very precisely.

New 17-inch brake discs on the front axle of the 165-kW Amarok and 16-inch discs at the rear ensure that the powerful pickup always comes to a stop quickly and safely. The Automatic Post-Collision Braking System, which has won multiple awards, is also included as standard.

The powerful impression the Amarok makes is underscored by a more athletic-looking front end and an all-new dashboard. Together with new ergonomic seats, these features lend the vehicle a more sophisticated and valuable appearance. In addition, the model's design clearly bears Volkswagen’s DNA. With a length of 5.25 metres and a width of 2.23 metres (mirrors included), the Amarok delivers everything one would expect from a classic pick-up.

The new body-coloured sports bar in the launch model (which will be marketed in Europe as the Amarok Aventura) visually shifts the double cab rearwards and also extends over a small part of the 2.52 m² load platform inside the cargo compartment. Various additional styling bars, covers, cargo area coatings and hardtops are also available for the Amarok cargo compartment.

In addition, the load platform in the four-door Amarok can accommodate a Euro-pallet loaded sideways. A payload capacity of more than one tonne is possible, depending on the equipment features selected. In future, some variants of the new Amarok will also boast a towing capacity of up to 3.5 tonnes.

The wheels in the various equipment levels offered with the Amarok are now larger, which makes for an even more powerful and sporty appearance. The Amarok Aventura features 20-inch alloy wheels and the Park Distance Control parking assistant, which utilises a rear-view camera. The overall impression of the Aventura is made perfect by bi-xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights, LED licence plate lighting and LED-illuminated side sills under the doors. (UK market availability is yet to be confirmed.)

*  provisional figures, depending on the equipment features selected

VW Commercial has marked its return to the CV Show with the announcement of a new Converter Recognition Programme.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has marked its return to the CV Show this year with the announcement of a new Converter Recognition Programme. 

Designed to build upon the brand’s existing and successful ‘Engineered to Go’ and ‘Engineered for You’ programmes, the new scheme not only extends the range of off-the-shelf and bespoke conversions on offer, but also further guaranties the quality of the products available directly from Volkswagen’s dedicated Van Centre network.

Working only with pre-qualified trusted partners, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles continues to offers a range of conversion products manufactured to the highest standards and that comply with the latest commercial and technical requirements. The changes to the programmes see Volkswagen introduce a number of new quality and technical criteria to which converter partners must adhere in order to be part of the conversion offering. The alterations have been developed to improve quality further, simplify the aftersales service and increase customer convenience.   

A new three-tiered approach has been developed to suit the differing converter agreements that Volkswagen operates (Registered Bodybuilder, Integrated Partner and Premium Partner). At each level, converter partners will be required to undergo regular, stringent converter audits to ensure the quality of the products available, as well as deliver minimum type approval certification for each conversion. This dedication to quality means that all Volkswagen-converted vehicles will feature the same aftersales support received by the brand’s standard vehicles.

The changes to the scheme will ensure customers are provided with a ‘one stop shop’ for converted vehicles, meaning that their chosen Van Centre takes care of the whole conversion process. Not only does this increase the convenience for the customer and mean only one invoice will be received when purchased via the Van Centre, but also that when the vehicle is delivered it is ready-for-use straight away.

Nick Axtell, Specialist Sales Manager at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, commented: “The changes to the ‘Engineered to Go’ and Engineered for You’ programmes are another example of how Volkswagen is working together with its customers to develop and evolve our products and service to help meet their business needs. The alterations to the conversions offering will allow us to not only further develop current range of off the shelf solutions we offer, but also help us to deliver an improved customer experience.”

WORLDWIDE SALES - Volkswagen Commercial sees growth in the third month of the year.

• Worldwide delivery increase of 4.3 per cent
• Bram Schot, Board Member for Sales and Marketing: “The renewal of the model range is taking effect”
• Positive development of the brand also expected for coming quarters

In the first three months of the year Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles delivered 113,100 vehicles to customers worldwide – growth of 4.3 per cent. With 46,100 vehicles, the brand's deliveries in March also exceeded those of the previous year (+0.8 per cent).

On the German domestic market the brand delivered 28,000 units, 3.7 per cent more vehicles in the first quarter than in the same period last year (27,100 vehicles). Growth was particularly high in core European markets of Italy (+40.2 per cent to 2,900 vehicles), Spain (+27.7 per cent to 3,100 vehicles) and France (+17.6 per cent to 4,600 vehicles).

Deliveries to Eastern Europe (+2.6 per cent to 8,000 vehicles) and South America (+4.1 per cent to 9,600 vehicles) also developed positively in the first three months of the year. Markets in Africa (-29.7 per cent to 3,000 vehicles), Asia-Pacific (-9.1 per cent to 5,000 vehicles) and the Middle East (-0.5 per cent to 7,900 vehicles) recorded a fall.

Bram Schot, Member of the Board of Management of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles responsible for Sales and Marketing said: "The renewal of the model range with Caddy and T-series in 2015 is taking effect. It will be continued this year and next year with the Amarok and Crafter." Deliveries in Western Europe have seen a pleasing development. He added: “The markets in Southern and Western Europe are also recovering again.” He is expecting “continued positive development of the brand for the whole of 2016”. However, Schot goes on to say that the situation in the regions without such strong national economies remains challenging.

An overview of deliveries of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles by models:

• 46,800 vehicles of the T-model series (43,500; +7.6 per cent)
• 36,700 vehicles of the Caddy model series (35,000; +4.9 per cent)
• 18,800 vehicles of the Amarok model series (18,500; +1.7 per cent)
• 10,900 vehicles of the Crafter model series (11,600; -5.9 per cent)

Volkswagen has opened up it's 2016 Apprenticeship scheme, so if you're interested, apply now.

• Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles launches 2016 apprenticeship applications 
• Comprehensive programme offers mix of class-based and on-the-job training
• Open to 16 to 24 year olds; choice of disciplines to appeal to a variety of applicants
• Apply online via www.volkswagencv-apprenticeships.co.uk website

As the summer school term and exam season approaches, many young people’s thoughts will start to turn to what career route they will take in September.  

For those looking for a career in retail or engineering, a great starting point could be an apprenticeship, and – to that end – Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has now launched its annual search for the next crop of talented young individuals to join the Volkswagen Advanced Apprenticeship Programme.

Designed to train the next generation of Parts and Service Advisors and Technicians, the scheme offers the chance of a two or three-year apprenticeship (two for Parts and Service Advisors and three for Technicians) at one of Volkswagen’s dedicated Van Centres or Authorised Repairers. Open to candidates aged between 16 and 24 years old, the comprehensive apprenticeship programme provides the selected trainees with an exciting and challenging opportunity.

On-the-job training equips the apprentices with the knowledge and experience to achieve a series of formal qualifications while in full-time employment. On completing the course, apprentices will gain VCQ/VRQ Level 3, an IMI Technical Certificate, an Advanced Apprentice-ship Completion Certificate and Key and Core Skills Certificates relevant to their specialist area.

Class-based training takes place at the Volkswagen Group’s state-of-the-art dedicated National Training Centre in Milton Keynes. Training is delivered in one-week blocks throughout the programme and equips the trainees with the knowledge and skills to keep pace with the latest technological advances as well as providing the very best levels of customer service.

Employing 883 apprentices across the Volkswagen Group and its associated brands, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles currently employs 90 of these within its 96 Van Centres and Authorised Repairers across the UK. The next crop of apprentices will be recruited during the next few months, with applicants able to apply online via the Volkswagen apprentice website. 

Erica Belsom, People Development Manager at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, commented: “Our apprentice programme continues to be hugely popular with all of our Van Centres taking part in the scheme. Applications are now open and the website is live for applicants to complete the simple online form.

“The scheme offers a great opportunity for those wanting to learn a trade whilst getting paid, learning not only technical skills but also the importance of customer focus, team work and problem solving. Throughout their time on the programme, our apprentices work alongside experienced personnel, learning valuable knowledge and skills to help them in developing their future careers.”

WORLDWIDE SALES - Volkswagen Commercial sees growth in the first two months of the year.

• Global deliveries up 6.7 per cent
• Western European market grows 12.3 per cent
• Deliveries in home German market up 10 per cent

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles delivered 67,000 vehicles to customers in the first two months of the year. This represents growth of 6.7 per cent over the same period in the previous year (62,750). In the high-volume market of Western Europe, the brand recorded double-digit growth.

“We have made a really impressive start to the new year,” explained Bram Schot, Member of the Board of Management of the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles brand responsible for Sales and Marketing. “In February alone, there was a 16.4 per cent increase in deliveries in Germany.” Schot added that these figures proved the popularity of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles to customers.

In Western Europe, the brand delivered 45,300 light commercial vehicles from the Transporter, Caddy, Crafter and Amarok model ranges in January and February. That represents an increase of 12.3 per cent year on year (40,300). In the domestic market of Germany, 17,500 vehicles were handed over to customers (15,900; +10.0 per cent).

Sales in the core markets of France (+15.7 per cent), Italy (+38.8 per cent) and Spain (+24.1 per cent) also greatly increased compared to the previous year. In Eastern Europe, 4,900 units were delivered, 2.2 per cent fewer vehicles than in 2015 (5,000).

In South America, 6,200 vehicles were handed over to customers in the first two months of the year (6,100; +1.2 per cent). In the case of Brazil, this means an increase of 6.8 per cent, and for Argentina a rise of 3.2 per cent. The Middle East region was also above the previous year’s level with 4,600 vehicles delivered (4,500; +3.0 per cent). Of this figure, the Turkish market accounted for 4,100 vehicles (3,900; +5.4 per cent).    

Worldwide deliveries in January and February by model range:  

• 27,100   vehicles from the T model range (24,500; +10.6 per cent)
• 22,200   vehicles from the Caddy range (20,400; +8.7 per cent)
• 11,800   vehicles from the Amarok range (11,500; +2.3 per cent)
•  6,000    vehicles from the Crafter range (6,400; -6.6 per cent)

WORLDWIDE SALES JANUARY - Volkswagen Commercial vehicles saw an upward swing to the start of the year.

• 31,200 vehicles delivered in January
• Deliveries in Western Europe up by 8.0 per cent

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has recorded a positive start to the new year with 31,200 vehicles delivered to customers around the world. This surpasses the result for the same month a year earlier by 2.1 per cent. Deliveries in Western Europe at 21,000 vehicles were significantly above last year’s level (19,500; +8.0 per cent). 

The brand recorded increases in France with 1,200 deliveries (900; +31.5 per cent), Spain with 800 units (600;+29.8 per cent) and Italy with 800 vehicles delivered (600; +24.2 per cent). In Germany, 7,800 lightweight commercial vehicles were delivered in the first month of the year (7,600; +2.8 per cent).

Bram Schot, Member of the Board of Management of the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles brand responsible for Sales and Marketing, said: “The good start in January makes us confident that the demand for our models will also remain steady in the following months. It’s especially pleasing to see the growth in the European core markets.”

In the Middle East with 2,000 deliveries, 26.6 per cent more vehicles were delivered to customers than in the equivalent period last year (1,600). Turkey is the largest sales market here with 1,700 vehicles delivered (1,300; +29.9per cent). Deliveries in Eastern Europe fell up to the end of January by 7.4 per cent to 2,300 vehicles (2,500).

In South America, the number of commercial vehicles delivered by the brand went down by 10.6 per cent to 3,100 (3,500). In Brazil, 1,000 vehicles were delivered (900; +3.2 per cent). The Argentinean market lost per cent with a figure of 1,800 deliveries (2,100).

Worldwide, customer deliveries of the Caddy and T model ranges increased. Below is a summary of the figures:

• 10,200    vehicles from the Caddy range (9,700; +5.8 per cent)
• 12,400    vehicles from the T model range (11,800; +4.9 per cent)
• 5,800    vehicles from the Amarok range (6,000;-4.3 per cent)
• 2,800    vehicles from the Crafter range (3,000; -7.5 per cent)