Volkswagen CEO confirms SEAT’s transformation

Huge confusion arose around SEAT after the statements of Thomas Schäfer, CEO of Volkswagen. Last Monday during the Munich Motor Show 2023, the manager said that the future of the Spanish brand is to focus its efforts exclusively on Cupra. Now, however, he clarified his words. The manufacturer does not say goodbye, but transforms.

“We are realizing our vision: state-of-the-art technology from the most sought-after brands at competitive prices. SEAT and CUPRA embody these values. Despite reports in some media, SEAT is stronger than ever” began Schaefer in a statement released via LinkedIn.

In fact, he took advantage of his intervention to share some data confirming the persistence of the manufacturer. “Demand for SEAT remains very strong, with sales up 18% this year to almost 200,000 vehicles sold. Customer orders for the main SEAT models Ibiza, Arona and León are at record levels.” he added.

SEAT is approaching the stage of transformation

The head of Volkswagen has hinted, now yes, that SEAT is transforming into gain a presence in “new forms of mobility”. These include vehicle sharing (car sharing), subscription services and micromobility.

He also said that the three models mentioned above will receive updates in the near future. Either with “super-efficient” combustion engines or electrified variants. As an example, he cited Leon, which already has an e-Hybrid version on the market.

To back up the promise that SEAT isn’t going anywhere, he added that the intention of the Volkswagen Group is to transform the manufacturer’s production facilities into the Zona Franca (Barcelona)..

In connection with Cupra, recognized that it is growing at an outstanding pace, so it is receiving more attention from the parent company. “In 5 years, CUPRA has sold an incredible 400,000 vehicles and this figure continues to grow exponentially. Around 150,000 Cupra have already been delivered worldwide this year, a 60% increase over last year. This makes it one of the fastest growing automotive brands in Europe,” he said.

Schaefer ruined everything

Of course, Schaefer’s statement follows the line that SEAT conveyed hypertext a few days ago.

“Inaccurate information has appeared that the Volkswagen Group will stop producing cars under the SEAT brand. In fact, the SEAT brand is stronger than ever.”

SEAT.

They even included the same growth data and the idea of ​​upgrading the Ibiza, Arona and Leon “to continue to offer low energy hybrid vehicles until the end of the combustion cycle.”

What’s going on here? Well just” Volkswagen CEO ruined everything in an interview in Germany. He chose his words poorly and caused a communication crisis that rocked SEAT. At the moment, the brand will stay with us for a long time, but will also explore other business models, which sooner or later will surely become its biggest support.