Milestone export for Volkswagen SA

Volkswagen of South Africa (VWSA) has exported its 200 000th five-cylinder TDI engine for export from its plant in Uitenhage. VW announced the R12-billion export contract to supply engines to the Volkswagen Group in 2004. The contract, initially set to run until 2010, has been extended to 2013. VW Communications general manager Bill Stephens says volumes have grown from the first shipment of 27 500 units in 2004, to an anticipated 60 500 units in 2008. The programme is expected to continue. “Volkswagen of SA is currently developing a new engine export strategy that will result in additional export opportunities to major overseas markets. The engine manufacturing plant in Uitenhage is a key factor in the company’s future export strategy,” Stephens concluded.