VW Electric Ambition: Targeting #1 European EV Brand in Australia

Volkswagen has marked its 70th anniversary in Australia with a ceremony by Sydney Harbour, announcing its electrified future following a 33,548km endurance test.

At the event, attended by various industry representatives, drivers Rainer Zietlow and Marius Biela received a Guinness World Record certificate for creating the largest GPS image made by a vehicle.

Volkswagen Passenger Vehicles Director Michal Szaniecki stated that the journey's scope reflects the company's electro mobility ambitions.

The ID.4 GTX used for the test combines key aspects of the ID.4 Pro and ID.5 GTX, with which Volkswagen begins its electric roll out in Australia.

Over 42 days, Zietlow and co-driver Marius Biela inscribed "70 years of VeeDub" across remote parts of Australia, covering 23,901km of the total journey. They utilized 132 charging points, often in outback regions where electric vehicles are uncommon.

The ID.4 and ID.5 GTX are enroute to Australia, with pricing to be announced shortly.

Volkswagen's ID.Buzz "electric Kombi" and Buzz Cargo van are also planned for the Australian market.

Volkswagen Group Australia (VGA) Managing Director Karsten Seifert announced that VW aims to be the leading European supplier of electric vehicles in Australia.

VGA, encompassing Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda, and CUPRA, aims to increase its electric vehicle offerings from four to about sixteen models.

VGA's electric vehicle strategy includes a comprehensive ownership package with home charging installation.

Skoda's Enyaq SUV Coupe has recently launched, while Audi's Q4 and CUPRA's Tavascan are expected by year's end.

This event marks the beginning of VGA's next phase in Australia, with a strong focus on electric mobility across all its brands. The company's ambitious plans reflect its commitment to the Australian market and the transition to electric vehicles.

A photographic diary of the Guiness Book of Records drive can be seen at 70 Year Anniversary of Volkswagen.