VW’s Diess: Confident We Can Recover in Fourth Quarter

The transcript discusses Volkswagen's handling of chip shortages and their impact on sales, particularly in China. It highlights the company's strategies to manage supply chain constraints due to COVID-19 and the Delta variant. The discussion also covers pricing strategies in response to rising raw material costs and the potential for price stabilization. Additionally, the Europcar acquisition is seen as a strategic move to enhance mobility platforms and profitability.

What was the primary reason for Volkswagen's optimism about recovering from chip shortages?

• They have shifted focus to electric vehicles.

• They have stopped production temporarily.

• They have managed the situation well and expect recovery in Q4.

• They have found a new chip supplier.

How has the resurgence of COVID-19 affected Volkswagen's operations?

• It has increased demand for their vehicles.

• It has led to a complete shutdown of production.

• It has had no impact on their operations.

• It has caused a reversal in return-to-office plans.

What strategy has Volkswagen employed to deal with rising raw material costs?

• They have absorbed all the costs themselves.

• They have passed some of the costs onto consumers.

• They have reduced the quality of their vehicles.

• They have stopped using certain raw materials.

What is Volkswagen's expectation regarding the long-term impact of raw material prices on car costs?

• Cars will become significantly more expensive.

• Prices will stabilize after the economic rebound.

• Raw material prices will continue to rise indefinitely.

• They will stop using raw materials altogether.

How does Volkswagen view the Europcar acquisition in terms of future business strategy?

• As a means to reduce production costs.

• As a way to exit the rental car market.

• As a key starting point for mobility platforms.

• As a temporary investment.