Peugoet finished 2013 on a high and looks forward to a better 2014

• Worldwide sales of 1,553,000 vehicles
• International growth

Main Points

• Worldwide sales of 1,553,000 vehicles down 8.7%
• International strategy well underway with sales outside Europe up 10.9 %

o   Percentage of sales outside Europe : 43 %  (39 % in 2012)
o   Sales in China up strongly by 25.8 % : ahead of the market
o   Making progress in Latin America up 5 .8 %

Europe : 879,000 sales , down 7.2 %
o   Strategy to give preference to more profitable channels of distribution
o   Improved performance in the retail market
o   Bounce back during the 4th quarter : registrations up by 3.5%          

• Move up-market strategy confirmed with the successful launches of the 208 GTi and XY, the new 308 and the 2008 Urban Crossover, which benefited from a particularly high level model mix
• Motor Sport: Victory for the 208 at Pikes Peak and at the 24 Hours Nürburgring
• Outlook for 2014 : PEUGEOT will have the youngest range in its history

In 2013, against the background of a generally depressed European market, although now with signs of stabilisation, and overseas markets showing contrasting trends, PEUGEOT recorded 1,553,000 sales worldwide.

Brand strategy for 2014 continues:

Continuation of a dynamic product and launch plan:
o   Expansion of the new PEUGEOT 308 range with a new body style (SW) and new power trains (Blue HDi and Pure Tech plus new automatic gearboxes
o   Renewal in the B1 segment

• Evolution of the  high capacity light commercial vehicle range
• Success of recent launches, 2008, 301, 308, 3008 China, will gain momentum
• Continuation of the Brand’s move up-market strategy
• Recovery expected in the southern European markets, favourable for the weighting of the Brand’s sales in Europe
• PEUGEOT’s continued growth in most emerging markets

Successful launches

2013 saw the PEUGEOT Brand continue the renewal and expansion of its product range.

The PEUGEOT 208 will soon pass 600,000 units produced in Europe and Brazil since its launch in 2012.

In 2013, 208 strengthened its position on the podium in the hotly contested European B2 hatchback segment, particularly in France, Belgium & Luxembourg, Holland, Portugal, and Denmark.

In spring 2013, the 208 range was topped by two new additions, the 208 XY and 208 GTi, which accounted for nearly 9,500 orders by the end of December and nearly a third of 208 customers have chosen the top trim levels (Féline, XY and GTi).

The PEUGEOT 208 also gained success in race car competitions: victory and record broken with the 208 T16 Pikes Peak at the iconic American hill climb race, triple win with the 208 GTi Peugeot Sport in its category in the 24 Hours at Nürburgring and the launches of private racing versions (208 R2, 208 Racing Cup Circuit and 208 T16).

The PEUGEOT 2008 Urban Crossover, with more than 82,000 customer orders since its launch in spring 2013, saw a level of success above its objective in the rapidly expanding CUV category of the B segment.

The strong appeal of the 2008, confirmed by several awards received in Europe, has led to an increase in production capacity at Mulhouse, progressively brought up to 650 units a day.

Qualitative success has also been achieved, with a particularly high trim level mix: 69 % of orders in Europe have been for trim levels 3 & 4 in the 2008 range, against an initial objective of 48 %.

2008’s international development will be realised by its sales launch in China during 2014, then in Brazil in 2015.

At the end of December and after less than three months on sale more than 35,000 orders were received for the new PEUGEOT 308 and that is even before its launch in the UK and various other overseas markets. This latest new car has seen a level of success above the ambitious targets that had been set for it.

With a model mix of more than 50% for trim levels 3 & 4 (Allure & Féline), it also demonstrates that all of the Brand’s models are contributing towards PEUGEOT’s move up-market.

Having already won several awards (France, Switzerland, Spain, Croatia, Slovakia), the new 308 is also one of the 7 finalists for the prestigious 2014 “Car of the Year” Award.

To its many qualities, the new 308 adds safety at the very highest level, as shown by the 5 * rating recently obtained under the new EuroNCAP tests.

In the spring, the new 308 range will expand with a new body style (SW) and new particularly innovative powertrains, such as the 1.6l BlueHDi and the brand new 1.2l THP and a new automatic gearbox.

The new PEUGEOT 301 gave the Brand a new model to conquest in emerging markets (93 % of sales are outside Europe) and with production and sales recently started in China, more than 67,000 examples were sold in 2013.

It made its mark especially in Algeria and Turkey. In 2014, the PEUGEOT 301 will contribute towards the growth of the Brand with a sales volume of 130,000 cars worldwide (of which, 65,000 in China).

PEUGEOT’s move up-market at the heart of the strategy for the brand

In 2013, with 338,000 units, ‘Premium’ vehicles represented 22 % of total sales for the Brand, against 18 % in 2012.

Among those, 89,000 PEUGEOT 508 vehicles were sold, in its internal combustion and HYbrid4 versions, 30 % of which were in China.

The 3008/3008 HYbrid 4 Crossover won 141,000 customers, especially in Europe and in China, while 74,000 examples of the 2008 Urban Crossover have been delivered.

For its part, the RCZ, with the range extended by the radical R version developed by Peugeot Sport, attracted more than 9,200 customers, while the Coupé Cabriolets and the 4008 SUV sold 14,500 and 9,100 units respectively.

Emissions reduction a top priority

PEUGEOT’s environmental commitment can be seen in the figures for 2013: the offering of three HYbrid 4 models, the optimisation of petrol and HDi engines, the extension of the new generation 3-cylinder petrol engines (1.2l VTi) through the range and the wide implementation of Stop & Start e-HDi have allowed the Brand to reduce the weighted average emissions of its European range to 115.2 g/km CO2 (11 months of 2013), against 121.6 g/km CO2 in 2012.

PEUGEOT is continuing its efforts towards the objective of 141.24mpg by 2020: developed in cooperation with TOTAL, the 208 HYbrid FE technology demonstrator explores various solutions and achieves the feat of reducing its emissions to 46 g/km CO2 (123.8mpg).

Europe: PEUGEOT gives preference to profitable sales

Against the background of a European car & light commercial vehicle market that remains competitive on price, down slightly by 1.6 % and on track towards stabilisation during the second half, PEUGEOT adopted a sound commercial approach in 2013 by choosing more profitable channels of distribution.

However, PEUGEOT improved its performance in Europe during 2013 compared to 2012: down by 11.7 % in the first quarter, its registrations then recovered over the year to finish 3.5 % up in the fourth quarter.

The Brand achieved 897,000 registrations (743,000 cars and 154,000 light commercial vehicles), down by 6.1 %, for a market share of 6.5 %, against 6.8 % the year before.

This change reflects an unfavourable market mix, against the background of persistent weakness in the large southern European markets, traditionally the most important for the Brand.

In 2013 the Brand recorded an increased market share for cars & light commercial vehicles in several countries in the area – particularly in France, Portugal and Ireland – and increased volumes in the United Kingdom, Spain and Portugal. It should be noted that in Spain, PEUGEOT shares the leadership of the total overall market and is the undisputed forerunner in the LCV market.

In Central and Eastern Europe, in the context of a market that had stabilised globally, PEUGEOT saw its registrations increase by 6.3 %, with noticeable increases for the main markets in the region (Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia).

In the European LCV market, PEUGEOT maintained its strong position with a quasi-stable market share of 10.5%.

Strong progress in overseas markets

With 673,000 assembled vehicles, the percentage of PEUGEOT’S sales outside Europe jumped from 39 to 43 %, in line with the Brand’s objective of achieving 50 % of its sales outside Europe by 2015.

2013 demonstrated the Brand’s acceleration in nearly all of the major regions in the world showing growth.

In China the biggest vehicle market in the world, PEUGEOT is outperforming with vehicle registrations growth of 25.8 % (+ 19 % for the market), at 272,000 units and a market share of 1.8% (1.7% in 2012).

PEUGEOT is reaping the rewards of an ambitious product policy (two launches in 2014 : 3008 China and 301), the development of its Dealer network (540 Dealers at the end of 2013), its rigorous approach to Chinese customers (Number 1 in the JD Power China classification for after sales service quality) and the development of new power units (e-Power).

In Latin America (Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Mexico) PEUGEOT registrations grew by 4.6% in a market up 2.9% albeit with contrasting results across the region.

In Argentina with 98,300 registrations, an increase of 21.6% - nearly double that of the market - PEUGEOT achieved a new historical record.

The successful launch of the PEUGEOT 208 should be noted in particular, on sale from summer 2013 and already in 2nd place in a B segment (second half), which accounts for 65 % of the Argentine market.

In Chile PEUGEOT’s registrations saw growth of 33.1 %, to 12,000 units, in a market up 10.3 %

In Mexico registrations grew by 33.4 %, to 6,900 units, widely outperforming the increase in the market (+ 7.9 %).

In Brazil on the other hand, in difficult economic circumstances and a very strained vehicle market, the PEUGEOT 208, launched during the year, has not yet made it possible for the Brand to return to growth. PEUGEOT sold 57,500 vehicles, down by 20.2 % in a market itself also slightly down (-1.5 %).

In Russia where the market contracted by 5.4% in 2013, the Brand decided to restrict its sales, profitability being seriously impacted by a very unfavourable Euro-Rouble exchange rate. Against this rather special context, PEUGEOT registrations in Russia reached 33,900 units in 2013, down by 23.8%.

On the other hand, sales were up 26.3% (5,400 units) in Ukraine, in a market that is also down.

In the Mediterranean region, success has been achieved.

In Algeria in a market going through a period of slight consolidation (-1.5 %), PEUGEOT established a new sales record, at 74,400 registrations (+ 12.1 %), a result helped by the success of the new PEUGEOT 301. The Brand, market leader for the first time in ten years, recorded a penetration of 17.0% (15 % in 2012).

Finally, in Turkey thanks also to the warm welcome given to the PEUGEOT 301, the Brand saw its registrations grow by 15.1 % in 2013, to 34,000 units (+ 9.8 % for the market).

VW group posts impressive sales figures for 2013

• Group Board Member for Sales Christian Klingler: “Renewed increase in deliveries is very good achievement by all brands. Market developments in 2014 expected to be similar to 2013.”

The Volkswagen Group reported yet another strong increase in worldwide deliveries for the full year 2013, topping the record set in 2012. “In total, our Group delivered over 9.7 million vehicles to customers last year, ranging from small city cars to heavy trucks – more than ever before,” Group Board Member for Sales Christian Klingler said, commenting on the overall delivery figures which also include estimates for the MAN and Scania brands. Klingler continued: “Across the board, all brands contributed to these very positive results which are a very good achievement in light of the difficult conditions on markets all over the world. As far as the current year is concerned, we expect market developments on a level similar to 2013. Even though the situation in Europe would appear to be stabilising, economic uncertainty will continue and the challenges we will be facing on markets will remain virtually unchanged.”

Excluding the heavy truck brands of MAN and Scania, the Volkswagen Group delivered 9.5 (2012: 9.1; +4.8 per cent)* million vehicles in twelve months. The Group finished the month of December with a 6.3 per cent increase, delivering 833,200 (December 2012: 784,100)* units.

Developments in the various regions and world markets were mixed. Group brands delivered 3.65 (3.67; -0.5 per cent) million vehicles on the overall European market from January to December, of which 1.85 (1.85; +0.1 per cent) million units were handed over in Western Europe (excluding Germany). 1.16 (1.18; -1.4 per cent) million customers chose a new model from the Volkswagen Group in the home market of Germany. Europe’s largest automaker delivered 639,500 (644,300; -0.7 per cent) vehicles in the Central and Eastern Europe region. 303,200 (317,700; -4.6 per cent) vehicles were handed over to customers in the Russian market during the same period.

Deliveries in the North America region from January to December grew 5.6 per cent to 888,800 (841,500) units, of which 611,700 (596,100; +2.6 per cent) were delivered in the United States. In the South America region, the Volkswagen Group handed over 908,000 (1,010,100; -10.1 per cent) million vehicles to customers during the same period, of which 682,200 (780,200; -12.6 per cent) were delivered in Brazil.

The Group recorded very encouraging figures in the Asia-Pacific region, where 3.64 (3.17; +14.7 per cent) million vehicles were delivered to customers in the period to December, of which 3.27 (2.81; +16.2 per cent) million were handed over to customers in China (incl. Hong Kong), the Group’s largest single market. In contrast, deliveries in India declined to 92,600 (114,100; -18.9 per cent) units.

Outline of developments at Group brands

The Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand delivered 5.93 (5.74; +3.4 per cent) million vehicles to customers worldwide during the full year. The brand developed well in the Asia-Pacific region, handing over 2.73 (2.37; +15.0 per cent) million vehicles there. Volkswagen Passenger Cars delivered 1.64 (1.70; -3.7 per cent) million vehicles to customers on the overall European market, where conditions remained difficult, of which 560,100 (586,100; -4.4 per cent) units were handed over in the home market of Germany.

Audi delivered 1.58 (1.46; +8.3 per cent) million vehicles worldwide in 2013. The premium brand from Ingolstadt developed particularly well in the Asia-Pacific region, where customers took possession of 579,100 (478,900; +20.9 per cent) new vehicles. Audi delivered 190,300 (168,800) models in the North America region during the same period, an increase of 12.7 per cent.

The sports car manufacturer Porsche, which became a Volkswagen Group brand on August 1, 2012, recorded full-year deliveries totaling 162,100 vehicles. Demand for vehicles built by the Stuttgart-based carmaker was particularly high in the Asia-Pacific region, where 49,700 units were delivered, and in the North America region, where 46,700 vehicles were handed over to customers.

ŠKODA delivered a total of 920,800 (939,200; -2.0 per cent) vehicles in 2013. The Czech automaker grew deliveries for the full year in Western Europe (excluding Germany), handing over 233,200 (225,900; +3.2 per cent) units. The company delivered 251,800 (261,100; -3.5 per cent) vehicles to customers in the Central and Eastern Europe region.

SEAT delivered 355,000 (321,000) vehicles worldwide in 2013, an increase of 10.6 per cent. The Spanish brand benefited in particular from a tailwind in Germany, where deliveries grew 20.3 per cent to 76,600 (63,700) units, as well as in the UK, where the company delivered 45,700 (39,000; +17.0 per cent) units.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles delivered 551,900 (550,200; +0.3 per cent) vehicles to customers last year, of which 159,400 (161,200; -1.1 per cent) units were handed over in Western Europe (excluding Germany). In contrast, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles grew deliveries in the South America region by 8.3 per cent, handing over 160,400 (148,100) vehicles to customer there.

*) including deliveries by the Porsche brand from August 1, 2012; excluding MAN and Scania

Skoda finishes 2013 below 2012 figures, but 2014 will be better.

• ŠKODA delivers 920,800 vehicles to customers in 2013 (2012: 939,200)
• Powerful final sprint with the best December in corporate history: 70,000 deliveries (December 2012: 66,200 deliveries, up 5.8%)
• ŠKODA model campaign proves its strength
• For the first time ŠKODA’s European market share grows to over 4%
• China is once again ŠKODA’s strongest individual market in 2013 with 227,000 sales
• Product campaign continues: a new model every six months on average

ŠKODA AUTO has successfully implemented its international growth strategy in 2013 again, selling 920,800 vehicles worldwide (2012: 939,200). Following the model launches in the first six months, ŠKODA saw significant growth later in the year, and recently achieved the best ever December for ŠKODA.

In the last month of the year, the company delivered 70,000 vehicles to customers, which is an increase of 5.8% over the previous December-record, set in 2012. In the years ahead, ŠKODA plans to grow further. To achieve this continued growth, the manufacturer will be introducing a new or revised model on average every six months until 2016.

“ŠKODA has demonstrated its strength this year. Despite the above-average number of production start-ups and fierce headwinds from some markets, we achieved the second-best sales year in corporate history - This is an excellent result,” says ŠKODA CEO Prof. Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland. “2013 was a record year with more new ŠKODA models than ever before. Eight new or completely revised models show the power of the ŠKODA brand. The winged arrow is shining, and our new cars are being very well received. Our attractrive model range, good flow of incoming orders and increasingly bright future on the European automotive markets make us confident for 2014.”

2013 - the third year of the ŠKODA growth strategy - was both a successful and an intense year for the Czech carmaker. Eight new or revised models, twelve international production start-ups, expansion of capacity in the Czech Republic, as well as in the growth markets of China and Russia, added to this the crisis in some markets: “2013 was really quite a year!” says Dr. Vahland. After the first half of the year had been characterized by the difficult market situation in Europe, as well as the production start-ups and the associated lower production volumes, ŠKODA was back on track in the second half of the year. With the full availability of the new models, sales increased significantly each month from September onwards. “Our model campaign is now showing its full strength. We are growing strongly and expanding our market shares continuously,” says Werner Eichhorn, ŠKODA Board Member for Sales and Marketing.

The new models have been very well received - especially the new ŠKODA Octavia, which is once again proving to be a great hit. In December, ŠKODA Octavia grew once again in Western Europe with high double-digit growth rates: up 52.3% compared to December 2012. In Europe as a whole, the Octavia recorded an increase of 19.1% in December.

In Western Europe, ŠKODA performed significantly better than the overall declining market in 2013. 369,600 vehicles sold represents an increase of 3.1% compared to 2012 (358,400). In December, Western European sales even rose by 17.8% to 31,300 vehicles (December 2012: 26,600). The ŠKODA market share in Western Europe increased for the year as a whole to 3.2% (2012: 3.0%). In the second largest market, Germany, ŠKODA grew to 136,400 deliveries in 2013, which is an increase over the previous year of 2.9% (132,600). The market share rose to 4.6% and ŠKODA continues to build its position as the strongest import brand in Germany.

In the UK, the manufacturer increased deliveries to customers over the past year by 24% to a new record high of 66,000 vehicles (2012: 53,200). The Czech brand also achieved double-digit growth in Denmark, up 40.7 % to 14,600 vehicles (2012: 10,400). Sales in Spain have also seen a positive increase (13,400 vehicles; +3.0%), Italy (12,100 vehicles; +2.0%), Norway (6,800 vehicles; +2.1%) and Sweden (12,300 vehicles, +1.4%).

In Eastern Europe, including Russia, ŠKODA delivered 125,400 vehicles to customers last year (2012: 137,100; -8.5%). ŠKODA’s market share reached 4%. In ŠKODA’s third-largest market, Russia, the manufacturer achieved 87,500 deliveries (2012: 99,100; -11.7%). The new Octavia was introduced there in the second half of the year. The Rapid is to follow in the first six months of 2014. Considerable growth was also seen in Kazakhstan in 2013, where 4,700 customers decided on a new ŠKODA, which is an increase of 145.7% over the previous year (1,900). ŠKODA achieved growth in the Baltic States (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania), where the brand grew by 3.4% to 4,600 vehicles sold in 2013 (2012: 4,500). In Serbia ŠKODA increased deliveries by 12.4% to 4,200 units (2012: 3,700).

ŠKODA grew once again in Central Europe in 2013. Deliveries to customers rose by 2.0% to 126,500 vehicles (2012: 124,000). ŠKODA’s market share rose to 19.2%. In December, brand deliveries in Central Europe grew by 13.5% to 11,300 (December 2012: 9,900). In the domestic market - the Czech Republic, ŠKODA sold a total of 60,000 vehicles in 2013, an increase of 0.6% (2012: 59,700). ŠKODA is defending its top position also in Poland. With 38,700 vehicles sold (2012: 36,300), representing an increase of 6.6% over the same period last year, the Czech carmaker remains the undisputed market leader for 2013.

Once again, China was ŠKODA’s strongest individual market in 2013, where the manufacturer delivered a total of 227,000 vehicles to customers (2012: 235,700 units; -3.7 %). The market launch of the new Octavia is on the cards only for the start of 2014. In India ŠKODA achieved a total of 22,600 deliveries in 2013 (2012: 34,300; -34.2%). In 2013 ŠKODA was also particularly successful in Israel (14,400; +11.7%), Turkey (12,800; +23.2%) and Algeria (9,100, +85.3%).

ŠKODA deliveries to customers in 2013 (in units, rounded off, according to model; +/- in % over 2012):

ŠKODA Octavia (359,600; -12.2 %)
ŠKODA Fabia (202,000; -16.0 %)
ŠKODA Superb (94,400; -13.4 %)
ŠKODA Yeti (82,400; -5.7 %)
ŠKODA Roomster (33,300; -12.3 %)
ŠKODA Rapid (103,800; +320.3 %)
ŠKODA Citigo (Only sold in Europe: 45,200; +51.0 %)

ŠKODA deliveries to customers in December 2013 (in units, rounded off, according to model; +/- in % over the same month in 2012):

ŠKODA Octavia (25,400; +3.5 %)
ŠKODA Fabia (14,400; -18.5 %)
ŠKODA Superb (5,100; -18.9 %)
ŠKODA Yeti (6,700; -5.6 %)
ŠKODA Roomster (2,900; +2.1 %)
ŠKODA Rapid (12,400; +312.4 %)
ŠKODA Citigo (only sold in Europe: 3,100; -34.3 %)

SEAT announces worldwide increases to better 2012 by 10.6%

• Following stunning result for SEAT UK, SEAT S.A. announces 10.6% global sales increase for 2013
• 355,000 vehicles delivered is SEAT’s highest for five years
• SEAT is one of the fastest growing brands in Europe
• Double digit increases for Leon (44%) and Mii (43%)

SEAT sales jumped up by 10.6% in 2013, as the Spanish brand delivered 355,000 vehicles worldwide – its highest number for five years, and 34,000 more than 2012’s figure.

In its main area of Western Europe, SEAT’s 9.4% increase puts it among the fastest growing brands in Europe, despite operating in a sector that’s contracted overall. SEAT sold 273,200 vehicles in Western Europe in 2013, 23,500 more than in 2012.

SEAT Chairman Jürgen Stackmann underscores that “the company is having sales momentum, particularly in Europe, where SEAT is growing faster than the competition in a contracting market.”

European success

In its biggest market, Germany, SEAT delivered 76,600 vehicles, a 20.3% increase over the previous year. SEAT was the fastest-growing brand in Germany, and has placed itself amongst the top ten selling brands. In Spain, SEAT returned to positive performance figures and increased sales by 6.0% (58,900 cars), above the market average. In the United Kingdom, its third-largest market, the Spanish brand enjoyed its fifth successive year of growth (16.8%), with more than 45,300 sales the highest that SEAT UK has ever achieved in a year.

SEAT also closed 2013 with record sales in other markets like Switzerland (8,300 units; up 5.2%) and Denmark (6,300; up 37.6%), alongside other European markets.

The key to SEAT’s positive performance in Europe is the Leon, of which more than 102,000 units have been sold worldwide, a 44.4% increase. The new five-door Leon is the best-selling SEAT model in many countries (Germany, United Kingdom, France, Italy, and Turkey, among others). SEAT Sales and Marketing Vice President Dr. Andreas Offermann asserts that “full availability of the Leon family should sustain growth in 2014.”

Growth in North Africa, Middle East and Mexico

SEAT also seized opportunities outside Europe; thanks to 13.0% growth, almost one of every five vehicles SEAT built in 2013 was sold outside of Europe (64,600 units). So, for the first time, SEAT has three non-European countries amongst its top ten: Mexico (5th), Algeria (6th) and Turkey (8th).

In Algeria, where SEAT already quadrupled its sales in 2012, it continued to grow last year, by 26.9%, and concluded 2013 with 20,500 units sold. The big novelty for 2013 was Turkey, where sales almost doubled (90.4%) with the brand marketing 11,100 units. SEAT ended 2013 with the highest sales figures in its history for both these countries. In Mexico SEAT grew for the fourth successive year (0.4%), sales totalling 21,200 units.

“In 2014, in spite of the still-persisting difficulties in the economic environment, we intend to continue working hard to make constant progress. We have a fantastic product range which will continue to grow around the Leon family, the heart of the SEAT brand,”declares Chairman Jürgen Stackmann.

Deliveries to customers in 2013 (by models, in units and percentage annual growth)

SEAT Mii (28,900; +43.2%)
SEAT Ibiza (154,100; -7.7%)
SEAT Toledo (19,000; launched in November 2012)
SEAT Leon (102,800; +44.4%)
SEAT Altea (23,700; -19.7%)
SEAT Alhambra (20,000; +4.0%)
SEAT Exeo (6,500; production discontinued in July 2013)

Bentley finished 2013 flying high

• 10,120 cars delivered in 2013
• Results confirm Bentley’s position as world’s most sought after luxury car brand
• Flying start for Flying Spur
• Dealer expansion continues, now includes 54 territories

Bentley Motors has firmly reinforced its position as the leading manufacturer of luxury vehicles in the world after announcing a 19% increase in global deliveries in 2013. 10,120 cars were delivered, the highest figure in Bentley’s 95-year history, against 8,510 in 2012.

The Americas region continued its impressive performance and number one market position, while Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Europe, particularly Germany and the UK, posted substantial gains over the previous year. The global sales network also increased by 11%, to 193 showrooms.

Commenting on the results, Bentley’s Chairman and Chief Executive, Dr Wolfgang Schreiber, said:

“2013 marks our fourth consecutive year of double-digit growth, establishing ourselves as the most sought after luxury car brand in the world. We continue to win new customers and we are confident that 2014 will be another successful year for Bentley. People all over the world love the unique combination of luxury and performance of our cars.”

New models were critical to this success. In 2013 Bentley launched the new Flying Spur, the fastest and most powerful Bentley four-door model ever. In the final four months of 2013, with full availability of the new model, Bentley delivered 2,005 Flying Spurs to customers - a phenomenal reception, considering the average yearly sales of 2,700 cars of its predecessor, the Continental Flying Spur, during its seven year tenure.

Deliveries also commenced for Bentley’s open-top performance flagship, the Continental GT Speed Convertible. The Continental family now has four distinct models, with the recently unveiled GT V8 S added to the range. This gives V8 customers a choice for the first time.

According to the latest figures, Bentley’s full year market share performance in the luxury segment rose by three percentage points, taking it to 25%, a market leading position in a segment that decreased by 6%.  

Bentley’s number one market throughout 2013 was the Americas region, finishing the year delivering 28% (3,140 cars) more cars than 2012 (2,457 cars), and 31% of the total deliveries. China remained the second biggest market, with 2,191 cars delivered in total over the year, against the previous year (2,253 cars).

In Europe, deliveries were up by 11%, with 1,480 cars delivered to customers. Bentley’s home market, the UK, also saw impressive gains, delivering 1,381 cars, a 25% increase on 2012 (1,104 cars). Overall, this means that 86% of Bentley’s cars were shipped abroad.

Bentley’s growing presence in the Middle East and Asia Pacific resulted in deliveries hitting a record high in both markets.

Performance was strengthened in the Middle East by Bentley’s flagship model, the Mulsanne, with model sales up by 38%, and total deliveries increasing by 45% (1,185 cars) on 2012 (815 cars).

In Asia Pacific, deliveries rose by 26% (452 cars) on the previous year (358 cars), driven by success of the two-door Continental GT model line. Finally, Japan saw growth of 53%, delivering 291 cars against a total of 190 cars in 2012.

Bentley’s success was driven by increases across all model lines.

50 years in development, the new Worldwide Mustang takes a bow

• All-new sophisticated design clearly inspired by 50 years of Mustang heritage evolved to attract wider array of customers and expand global market availability
• Mustang now available with three engines offering a broader power of choice – a more powerful 5.0-liter V8, a 3.7-liter V6 and an all-new fuel-efficient 2.3-liter EcoBoost® engine
• Mustang sets new performance and dynamics benchmarks for the brand with world-class handling, more precise steering control and enhanced ride comfort

The next chapter in the life of the iconic pony car begins today as the all-new Ford Mustang – loaded with innovative technologies and delivering world-class levels of performance – is simultaneously revealed around the globe in six cities on four continents.

“Ford Mustang inspires passion like no other car,” said Raj Nair, Ford group vice president, global product development. “The visceral look, sound and performance of Mustang resonates with people, even if they’ve never driven one. Mustang is definitely more than just a car – it is the heart and soul of Ford.”

Mustang’s impact goes well beyond the 9 million-plus cars sold in its 50 years of continuous production. It has made thousands of appearances in film, television, music and video games, and is the world’s most-liked vehicle on Facebook. For the first time ever, Ford will bring Mustang to customers in key parts of Europe and Asia.

“We crafted this car with the goal of creating a contemporary interpretation of Mustang – an American automotive icon that symbolizes optimism and freedom for millions of people around the world,” said Jim Farley, executive vice president of Ford global marketing, sales and service and Lincoln.

All-new shape, yet unmistakably Mustang
The clean-sheet design of both Mustang fastback and convertible evokes the essential character of the brand, retaining key design elements – including the long sculpted hood and short rear deck – with contemporary execution.

“You only get one chance to make a first impression, and when you see this car you immediately see a Mustang strong and true,” said Moray Callum, Ford executive director, design, The Americas.

Several key design features define the all-new Mustang, including:

• A lower, wider stance with a reduction in roof height, and wider rear fenders and track
• The return of Mustang fastback with a sleeker profile enabled by more steeply sloped windshield and rear glass
• Three-dimensional, tri-bar taillamps with sequential turn signals
• Contemporary execution of the signature shark-bite front fascia and trapezoidal grille

Mustang convertible drivers will appreciate the standard multilayer insulated cloth top that gives the car a more upscale appearance and a quieter cabin. The new top lowers twice as fast as before, and has a sleeker profile when folded for open-air motoring.

The information and controls an active driver needs are all readily accessible in the aviation-inspired cockpit, which is executed with the highest degree of craftsmanship ever found in a Mustang. Large, clear instrumentation puts vehicle information right in front of the driver in the roomier cabin, while improved ergonomics and tactile switches and knobs provide better control. The added width and a new rear suspension contribute to improved shoulder and hip room for passengers, and a more usefully shaped trunk can accommodate two golf bags.

The Mustang experience
The way Mustang looks, drives and sounds is key to the visceral experience that makes drivers just want to get in and hit the road. With more options to choose from, there is a Mustang to fit any lifestyle. The upgraded V6 and V8 are joined by an all-new 2.3-liter EcoBoost® engine that brings state-of-the-art technology to Mustang.

Mustang GT continues with the latest edition of the throaty 5.0-liter V8, now featuring an upgraded valvetrain and cylinder heads that yield more than 420 horsepower and 390 lb.-ft. of torque. A new intake manifold improves low-speed breathing for better fuel economy, idle stability and emissions.

“This EcoBoost engine delivers where a Mustang driver expects it to, with a broad, flat torque curve that pours out when you stand on it for easy passing or hustling down a twisty road,” said Dave Pericak, Ford Mustang chief engineer.

The Mustang EcoBoost engine uses direct injection, variable cam timing and turbocharging to deliver plenty of usable performance and projected segment-leading fuel efficiency. A unique intake manifold and turbocharger housing enable it to deliver the performance Mustang drivers expect with output projected at more than 305 horsepower and 300 lb.-ft. of torque.

With at least 300 horsepower and 270 lb.-ft. of torque on tap from the standard 3.7-liter V6, even the most accessible Mustang delivers the performance customers expect.

Drivers will appreciate smoother shifts from the updated manual gearbox, while a reworked automatic transmission features new steering wheel-mounted shift paddles for drivers who want the choice between convenience and control.

Most nimble pony ever
When life throws drivers a curve, the all-new Mustang sets new handling benchmarks for the brand, delivering world-class dynamics and ride quality.

“We already set a very high standard for Mustang’s dynamics with Boss 302, and our goal was to go above and beyond that with this new car,” said Pericak.

Mustang features all-new front and rear suspension systems. At the front, a new perimeter subframe helps to stiffen the structure while reducing mass, providing a better foundation for more predictable wheel control that benefits handling, steering and ride.

The new double-ball-joint front MacPherson strut system also enables the use of larger, more powerful brakes. This is expected to be the best stopping Mustang yet, with three available brake packages.

At the rear is an all-new integral-link independent rear suspension. The geometry, springs, dampers and bushings all have been specifically modified and tuned for this high-performance application. New aluminum rear knuckles help reduce unsprung mass for improved ride and handling.

Smarter than your average pony
The all-new Mustang features a significant amount of innovative technologies providing drivers with enhanced information, control and connectivity when they want it. From Intelligent Access with push-button start to SYNC® and MyKey® in every Mustang built, plus available Track Apps, MyColor gauges and new Shaker Pro audio system, drivers will be able to customize their time behind the wheel.

The feeling of freedom and confidence Mustang instills in its drivers is amplified when they can take control of how the car behaves. On a twisty back road or a weekend track day, the driver can tap the toggle switches on the console to quickly adjust steering effort, engine response, and transmission and electronic stability control settings using the available Selectable Drive Modes to create the perfect Mustang at any time.

The advanced new Ford-developed stability control system is tuned to maximize Mustang’s dynamic capabilities. When the time comes to turn up the wick at the track, Mustang GT includes standard launch control that enables drivers to achieve smooth, consistent starts every time.

When it’s time to back off and relax for the drive home, available advanced driver-assist features including Blind Spot Information System with cross-traffic alert and adaptive cruise control can help ease the load, while SYNC AppLink™ lets drivers control their smartphone apps to listen to their favorite form of entertainment.

50 years of Mustang
April 17, 2014, marks the 50th anniversary of the introduction of the original Ford Mustang and each 2015 model celebrates the milestone with a badge on the instrument panel that includes the galloping pony logo and the words “Mustang – Since 1964.” Mustang will continue to be built in the United States at Flat Rock Assembly Plant.

“From day one, we knew if we were going to build a new Mustang, we had to do it right,” said Pericak. “We built a new Mustang from the ground up that is quicker, better-looking, more refined and more efficient, without losing any of the raw appeal that people have associated with Mustang for half a century.”

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LATEST NEWS - Volkswagen issues recall on 1.68 million vehicles worldwide.

Volkswagen recalls Tiguan for fuse exchange

• Some of the vehicle lights could fail on the Tiguan

• Gearbox oil change with vehicles with DQ200 gearboxes

Within the framework of the continuous monitoring of vehicles in the field, Quality Assurance at Volkswagen AG has found that, in isolated cases, a fuse may trip in the Tiguan, thus resulting in failure of one of the two vehicle light circuits. This in turn causes individual light functions to fail. However, the vehicle's electric circuitry ensures that some lights remain on all around the vehicle. The driver is immediately informed of this on the instrument cluster. Replacing the fuse with one with a tougher surface coating only takes a few minutes. Approximately 800,000 vehicles, which includes 147.000 vehicles in the German market, built between the beginning of 2008 and the middle of 2011, are affected by this global campaign. The relevant vehicle owners will be informed by Volkswagen accordingly.

Within the framework of further quality monitoring in China and Southeast Asia, it has been discovered that, with vehicles with a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox (DQ200), electric malfunctions could occur in the gearbox power supply if synthetic gearbox oil is used. This applies in particular if the vehicle is subject to a hot and humid climate, coupled with a high proportion of stop & go driving.

Studies have established that using of mineral oil will rectify this problem. To continue to ensure customer satisfaction amongst DSG, Volkswagen has decided to launch global voluntary campaign and to request all customers with a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox (DQ200) filled with synthetic oil to visit a workshop for an oil exchange. The vehicle owners will be informed by Volkswagen accordingly.

Volkswagen increases worldwide sales for nine months to end of September.

Europe’s largest automaker delivered 4.36 (January-September 2012: 4.21; +3.6 per cent) million vehicles from January to September. The passenger cars brand handed over 526,300 (September 2012: 492,800; +6.8 per cent) vehicles to customers in the month of September. “Volkswagen Passenger Cars has held its own well on world markets despite the challenging situation and continued to grow in China in particular,” Christian Klingler, Board Member for Sales and Marketing for the Volkswagen Group and the Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand, commented.

The brand recorded a 16.5 per cent rise from January to September in the Asia-Pacific region, handing over 1.95 (1.68) million units there, of which 1.79 (1.51; +18.2 per cent) million vehicles were delivered in China (excluding Hong Kong), the region’s largest single market. In contrast, deliveries in India declined to 45,900 (51,000; -10.0 per cent) units.

In the North America region, Volkswagen Passenger Cars grew deliveries by 2.1 per cent to 466,000 (456,500) vehicles, of which 314,800 (323,100; -2.6 per cent) models were handed over to customers in the United States. In the South America region, deliveries from January to September declined by 13.4 per cent to 542,500 (626,500) units, of which 407,400 (486,800; -16.3 per cent) vehicles were handed over in Brazil.

Volkswagen Passenger Cars delivered 1.23 (1.30; -5.7 per cent) million vehicles on the overall European market in the first three quarters, of which 616,400 (653,300; -5.6 per cent) units were handed over in Western Europe (excluding Germany). In the home market of Germany, delivery delays due to the bad weather in Wolfsburg which caused hailstorm damage to several thousand vehicles continued. As a result, deliveries to customers from January to September were down 8.2 per cent to 410,300 (447,000) units. Volkswagen Passenger Cars handed over 198,900 (199,800; -0.5 per cent) vehicles to customers in Central and Eastern Europe in the period to September, of which 117,200 (123,000; -4.7 per cent) units were delivered in Russia.