The Chairman of Volkswagen AG, Dr. Pischetsrieder, again confirmed the decision announced in June 2002 to produce the Microbus in Hanover. The decision made at that time was, of course, taken under different macro-economic conditions. The Microbus, originally intended to be sold primarily in North America, is no longer feasible. Consequently, the successful Multivan minivan is being further developed and, including elements from the upper class, is being positioned in a higher segment. At the same time, an emotional lifestyle product is being developed thanks to the opportunities presented by the T5. The new Microbus will enable Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles to establish a separate vehicle segment. Like the Multivan segment, this will be orientated towards Europe.

An additional vehicle family is also to be built at the Hanover site. This will enable Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, from Hanover, to tap into the segment for robust pick-ups and off-road vehicles, for which there is an ever growing demand worldwide. Hanover forms part of a global strategy, in the context of which these products will be built at various plants in a worldwide supply organisation from 2008 onwards, explained Pischetsrieder.

“We would consider all new product opportunities” said Director of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, Mr Phil Clark. He went on to say “They’re certainly exciting times ahead with the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles brand.”