VW strength more than flower power
Article Abstract:
Volkswagen (VW) has set its eyes on promoting the company's business in the US to become a global car company, despite having the third largest global sales in 1998. VW CEO Ferdinand Piech is leading the company's attempt in grabbing the No. 1 spot through its Beetle, Jetta and Audi luxury brand. Piech initiated the company's platform consolidation strategy that allowed it to double the number of its models, including the New Beetle, redesigned '99 Jetta sedan and Golf Hatchback. Through platform consolidation, or sharing of common engines, transmissions, chassis parts, switches and other parts between the models, the company was able to cut costs for parts.
Comment:
Sets eyes on promoting business in the US to become a global car company, despite having the third largest global sales in 1998
Publication Name: USA Today
Subject: News, opinion and commentary
ISSN: 0734-7456
Year: 1998
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
California may soften electric car mandate
Article Abstract:
California is reconsidering its decision requiring car companies to introduce electric automobiles in the state by 2003 due to consumer resistance on these vehicles, which are costly and have low mileage. The reluctance has been bolstered by a study done by University of California professor Kenneth Train, which said that consumers would buy electric vehicles only if they were $28,000 cheaper than gasoline-powered vehicles. California requires that 10% of new car models to be sold in the state by 2003 be made up of zero-emission vehicles.
Publication Name: USA Today
Subject: News, opinion and commentary
ISSN: 0734-7456
Year: 2000
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
Automakers have designs on wackiness
Article Abstract:
Automakers have launched cars with innovative concepts and designs at the 1999 Tokyo Motor Show in Chiba, Japan. Among the most radically-designed cars are Honda Motor Co Ltd's Fuya-jo, a toaster-shaped car designed for all-night cruising and Spocket sport-utility pocket concept car; Ford Motor Co's 021C plastic-body, front-wheel drive subcompact car; and Mazda's RX-Evolv hybrid sedan/sports car designed for people with kids.
Publication Name: USA Today
Subject: News, opinion and commentary
ISSN: 0734-7456
Year: 1999
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
- Abstracts: Workhorse trucks get cushy touches. Automakers have too many trucks. Nissan to develop full-size trucks
- Abstracts: GM beams up OnStar system to rival automaker Honda. Automaker recruits college students as sellers. Electric-car recharge sparks automaker battle
- Abstracts: Putting Palm and phone in one hand, or pocket. New image technology can drive shadows away. Viruses could have your number
- Abstracts: WB, Fox networks favored by early ad buyers. CBS to join Viacom empire. Advertisers shell out billions for 2001 TV season
- Abstracts: More women diversify ranks of fund industry. After tough year, some closed funds open to new investors. Investors go for funds that trade like stocks