Volkswagen Group China CEO Stephan Woellenstein

Q1, What are your expectations for the auto show?

A1: Among our brands’ highlights, the China Premiere of the eighth-generation Volkswagen Golf has been a symbol of Volkswagen since its debut in 1974.

Q2, With the pandemic slowing down, China’s automotive market has started to recover in the second quarter. What do you predict for China's auto market in the near future? The current recovery trend shows a “V” shape in sales, what do you think would be in the next stage? A “√” shape, a “W” shape, an “M” shape, or a “√¯” shape?

A2: The automotive industry has become increasingly challenging since 2018.

There are two important reasons. First is the trade issue with the United States, placing a greater burden on suppliers than manufacturers, and already resulting in losses and job cuts. Market pressure has been further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Second is the most major industry paradigm shift since the invention of the car, the move toward e-mobility and ICV.

This is likely to cause an industry shake-up among the 100-plus automotive brands in this market. Strong brands, however, will be resistant and see a renaissance.

With the Volkswagen Group’s 35 years of success in China and a portfolio of exceptionally strong brands, we have earned the trust of our customers. During challenging times, Volkswagen Group has outperformed the total market and gained market share.

Our long-term confidence in China’s automotive market remains unchanged. China’s vehicle density is three times lower than that of Germany and has room to grow. China is still the coming powerhouse of the automobile world.

Q3, Can you use a few keywords to describe your predictions for the Chinese and global automotive industries in the next five years?

A3: The industry has undergone a change toward e-mobility and digitalization since the invention of the car. China is at the forefront of this change, and thanks to government support and increased interest from Chinese consumers, e-mobility and the fully connected car with automated driving functions are developing faster here than anywhere.

Q4, The virus has drastically affected people's lives. It has also caused people to rethink many aspects of life, including their way of traveling, and business management. From your perspective, what are the most important lessons we can take away from this pandemic? Can you also use a few keywords to summarize the impact?

A4: The pandemic will have a catalyst-like effect in pushing the long-term trend toward digitalization of sales, services and marketing. We must connect with customers and become a part of their everyday digital ecosystem.

Q5, What do you think about the social responsibilities that the automotive companies have taken during the epidemic?

A5: The health and safety of employees is our top priority. Under the government’s guidance before the restart, comprehensive measures were in place to ensure the lowest risk for staff when at work or commuting.

Q6, In the post-epidemic era, how will China's position and role be affected in the global automotive industry? What do you think the players should do next?

A6: Volkswagen Group, similar to the entire automotive industry, is undergoing a huge transformation. We are becoming an integrated sustainable mobility provider, with our future being electric, fully connected and carbon dioxide neutral. With the upcoming Volkswagen brand ID.4 for China, we will further strengthen our existing product portfolio, which includes Audi e-tron. Vehicles are becoming complex online devices on wheels, and autonomous driving is key to our strategic core business transformation.