Volkswagen Group UK has been awarded the prestigious title of ‘OEM of the Year’ at the annual EVIE Awards, in recognition of the Group’s industry-leading activities, products and commitments in the rapidly expanding world of e-mobility.
The prize, presented at a glittering event in London, was judged by a panel of industry experts, with the nominees primarily scored on the suite of electric cars they currently offer. A strong focus was also placed on the wider electrification strategy, with particular emphasis on consumer engagement, partnerships with charging manufacturers and supply chain sustainability.
During this decade, Volkswagen Group intends to launch approximately 70 all-electric models, many of which are based on the innovative ‘MEB’ modular platform – a pure electric platform offering superior efficiency and significant economies of scale. This platform was first revealed at the 2016 Paris Motor Show with the unveiling of the Volkswagen I.D. concept, and has since become the foundation for an award-winning array of models covering a wide customer audience.
Since 2020, Volkswagen has introduced the family hatch-sized ID.3, the compact SUV-sized ID. 4, the ID.5 SUV-coupe, and the iconic ID. Buzz. The aim is to eventually provide a fully electric vehicle option for any size or budget – as is only appropriate for the ‘People’s Car’.
Other Volkswagen Group UK brands have also launched critically acclaimed EVs as part of the company’s move to electric, such as the CUPRA Born, ŠKODA Enyaq iV, plus the Audi Q4 e-tron and e-tron GT.
In its award notes, the judging panel explained that the Group had a “clear strategy beyond the vehicle” and highlighted the work carried out on sustainability at every point in the product lifecycle, as well as the efforts made to increase infrastructure in the UK. Particular reference to the “positive partnership with Tesco to boost the charging infrastructure and the leading application in terms of supply chain sustainability” was cited, referring to the 500 charge points installed nationwide as part of a partnership with Tesco and Pod Point, offering sustainable electric charging to drivers of ALL electrified vehicles.
The Group’s approach to production, and eventually recycling, was also a clear deciding factor for the judges. Many models, for example, are built net-carbon neutral (as certified independently by TÜV NORD), with Volkswagen Group production facilities, such as Zwickau in Germany and Chattanooga in the USA, being converted into pure EV producing sites. Significant expenditure on R&D for battery and material recycling are also core pillars of the Group’s ‘NEW AUTO’ strategy.
Alex Smith, Managing Director of Volkswagen Group UK, commented: “We are very pleased to receive this important award. It’s great recognition of the work we are doing as a Group to not only drive electrification, but also to help create sustainable mobility for generations to come. The fantastic products we offer, along with our initiatives, partnerships and strategies, put us in a leading position for e-mobility.”
The award arrives as Volkswagen Group globally plans to spend EUR 89 billion on electrification, hybrid powertrains and digital technology over the next five years. That ambitious level of financial expenditure makes Volkswagen Group one of the biggest investors in electro-mobility in the world and reaffirms the Group’s commitment to become climate neutral by 2050, in line with the Paris Climate Accord.
