April Marks the Sixth Straight Month of Year- Over-Year Gains
IRVINE, Calif. (May 2, 2023) – Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today reported total April sales of 32,351 vehicles, an increase of 7.5 percent compared to April 2022. Year-to-date sales totaled 120,735 vehicles; an increase of 7.5 percent compared to the same time last year. With 26 selling days in April, compared to 27 the year prior, the company posted an increase of 11.6 percent on a Daily Selling Rate (DSR) basis.
CPO sales totaled 4,765 vehicles in April, a decrease of 10 percent compared to April 2022.
Sales Highlights
Best April sales since 1994 with 32,351 vehicles sold.
Best-ever April sales of CX-30 with 5,954 vehicles sold.
Best-ever April sales of CX-9 with 3,311 vehicles sold.
Best-ever sales of CX-50 with 4,305 vehicles sold.
Mazda Canada, Inc., (MCI) reported April sales of 4,459 vehicles, a decrease of 25.7 percent compared to April last year. Year-to-date sales total 15,785 vehicles; a decrease of 16.6 percent compared to the same time last year.
Mazda Motor de Mexico (MMdM) reported April sales of 3,777 vehicles, an increase of 609 percent compared to last year. Year-to-date sales totaled 23,040 vehicles; an increase of 94 percent compared to the same time last year.
Mazda Motor de Colombia (MCOL) reported April sales of 1,216 vehicles, a decrease of 34.6 percent compared to last year. Year-to-date sales totaled 5,103 vehicles; a decrease of 2.6 percent compared to the same time last year.
Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, California, and oversees the sales, marketing, parts, and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Colombia through approximately 795 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada Inc. in Richmond Hill, Ontario; operations in Mexico are managed by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City; and operations in Colombia are managed by Mazda de Colombia in Bogota, Colombia. For more information on Mazda vehicles, including photography and B-roll, please visit the online Mazda media center at News.MazdaUSA.com.
For further information: Tamara Mlynarczyk, Mazda North American Operations, media@mazdausa.com; Drew Cary, Mazda North American Operations, media@mazdausa.com
Citroën C4 and ë-C4 have won the ‘Car of the Year’ title in the Driver Power survey 2023.
Citroën C4 and ë-C4 have secured the top spot in the list of 75 most satisfying models to own in the UK.
The model has also been named the ‘Best Compact Family Car’ in this year’s survey.
Citroën ë-C4 can now be purchased with two all-electric powertrains that have a maximum WLTP range of 260 miles.
The Driver Power survey 2023, conducted and published by Auto Express, has crowned Citroën C4 as the most gratifying car to own in the UK. The C4 and ë-C4 have also been declared the ‘Best Compact Family Car’. Auto Express performs the survey each year, and this year more than 60,000 car owners provided their feedback on various aspects, including running costs, performance, and technology. Recognition in the Driver Power survey is valued by industry commentators and media worldwide as a fair and unbiased evaluation of car owners’ opinions.
Citroën C4 and ë-C4 outperformed their competitors according to the scores given by their respective owners. The car owners seemed satisfied with the good MPG or all-electric efficiency, running costs, safety features, and reliability. The quality of ride and handling left an excellent impression on the owners, irrespective of the chosen powertrain.
Both C4 and ë-C4 are beneficiaries of the Citroën Advanced Comfort® Program. Citroën Advanced Comfort® seats are constructed specifically with high-density foam in the core of the seat, providing additional support, along with an additional layer of 15mm memory foam just under the fabric. The Advanced Comfort® suspension system, which is exclusively available in Citroën cars, improves the absorption of imperfections in the road and ensures that passengers experience a comfortable ride, creating a real ‘flying carpet’ consistency. This experience is further enhanced by the serene soundless electric powertrain of ë-C4.
Steve Fowler, auto express editor-in-chief, commented on this achievement, stating that, “We’ve been greatly impressed by this sleek and stylish Citroën from the outset, and it’s clearly making a huge impression on its owners. It’s a remarkable win for the French firm, which has not only transformed its product range in recent years, but has also invested hugely in improvements to quality.”
Citroën C4 is available with a collection of efficient petrol and diesel engines, and the ë-C4 comes with two electric powertrains, one with a 50kW battery that promises a maximum of 222 miles of range (WLTP), and the other with a 54kW battery that ensures up to 260 miles of range (WLTP). Citroën ë-C4 supports 100kW rapid charging, implying that you can charge from 0-80% in only thirty minutes from a public rapid charger.
Citroën UK’s Managing Director, Greg Taylor, commented, “This is a wonderful accolade for everyone at Citroën UK, but much more importantly it’s fabulous news for present and future Citroën customers. An enormous amount of work has gone into our latest products to ensure they’re best in class in terms of quality and ownership experience. And now, the outstanding service delivered by our retailer partners means Citroën can proudly say that we are the maker of the most satisfying car to own in the UK right now.
In the year 2000, Suzuki released the DR-Z400S, which was a perfect timing as the motorcycle industry was about to go through significant changes. The four-strokes bikes soon took over the market, and most Japanese two-stroke bikes went out of production. The DR-Z was Japan’s second-best dual-sport bike and was considered the best in its category until the release of the Honda CRF450L in 2019. Even now, the Suzuki sells for $7099, which is approximately $3000 less than the Honda, making it an excellent purchase.
AS TIMES CHANGE Time flows, and although the DR-Z was built in a different era, it wouldn’t be that different if it were built today. Of course, the carburetor would have to go, but the motor is a compact, double-overhead-cam four-valve with electric start and a counterbalancer. It is not much different from most modern four-stroke motocross bikes. The DR-Z uses a shim and buckets to drive the valves directly, and there are other old-school design elements like the “right-side up” fork, steel tank, frame, and handlebar.
The DR-Z soon became the Suzuki off-road race team’s primary weapon out west since there were no Honda CRF450R or serious motocross four-strokes from Suzuki or Kawasaki at the time. Mike Kiedrowski won back-to-back WORCS championships in 2001 and 2002 on a Yoshimura-built DR-Z against a field of Yamaha 426s.
Despite being an exceptional bike, it’s challenging to find a dual-sport version of Kiedrowski’s DR-Z. It’s still possible but would cost a lot and still not match the modern 450s. Today, the Suzuki DR-Z400S is more of a trail bike than a competition bike. It performs reasonably well in its stock form, with only two horsepower less than a Husqvarna FE350S at peak performance.
There is a range of aftermarket parts available for the DR-Z400S, including Keihin FCR carburetors and DOT-approved knobbies. However, the main appeal of the Suzuki is its low price. It’s more effective than one might think, and with decent tires, it can keep up with more modern dual-sport bikes on moderately difficult singletrack. It has great handling and suspension, and the ergonomics are almost modern-like, giving the rider a comfortable experience.
The only significant limitation is the stock Bridgestone Trail Wing tires, which are street-oriented and unsuited for rough terrain. It would be best to equip the Suzuki with aftermarket DOT-approved knobbies, but it’s important to note that they wear out faster than stock tires, which aren’t ideal for mostly pavement riding. It might be a good idea to have an extra set of wheels with knobbies set aside for special off-road occasions.
2022 was an excellent year for the automotive industry. It saw new leaps and bounds for electric and hybrid cars. Some cars had new tech like wireless charging, voice activation, and even air purification systems. And while 2022 was great for new features, the year was not so kind to American car manufacturers. 2022 Consumer Reports had mostly Asian manufacturers in the top spots (Think, Toyota, Honda, and Mazda). Only Lincoln made the top 10, with Buick in the 11th spot.
But just because a car didn’t make it in the top 10 doesn’t mean that it’s not reliable. New technology can be the culprit for a car not being on the list, not necessarily mechanical maladies. So if you’re worrying that your car isn’t in the top 10, don’t fret. There are still many things to love about American cars.
Updated on June 14, 2023: Since 2022 is gone and half of 2023 has been swept under the rug, we have decided to refresh and update this list of reliable American cars. The original 2022 models have been left, so you know what vehicle to look for in a slightly used car. However, we have added some of the top 2023 American models to give you some extra choices.
Three-quarters shot of a 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee Hybrid charging
Jeep has never really been high on reliability lists. In 2022, they ranked 23 out of 24 car manufacturers, almost putting them dead last. The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokeeis the highest on Jeep’s list of reliable cars. The Jeep Grand Cherokee 2022 has been redesigned with better fuel economy, a more luxurious cabin, and more refinement. This car is a great midsize SUV that is predicted to last a long time, but you might be better off with some of its other competitors, such as KIA, Hyundai, or Honda, given Jeep’s overall reliability record.
142022 GMC Yukon: 73/100
GMC
Front and side view of a 2022 GMC Yukon Denali
Placing just two spots above Jeep at 21 out of 24 car manufacturers is GMC. GMC is another one of those companies with average reliability over the years, but the 2022 GMC Yukonis one of GMC’s more reliable cars. This three-row SUV is quiet, comfy, and has excellent towing capacity (7,500 – 7,900 pounds). The newly redesigned independent rear suspension offers a smoother ride and better handling. When maintained, it is predicted to last 200,000 to 250,000 miles, making it a decent choice if you’re looking to buy a new SUV or if you need something to haul your boat and motorcycle around.
132022 Tesla Model Y: 73/100
Tesla
A front 3/4 outdoor shot of a 2022 Tesla Model Y
Tesla has always been at the cutting edge when it comes to new technology in its cars, but they are the relatively new kid on the block and have some things to figure out. The 2022 Tesla Model Y is no exception to this rule. Tesla came in at 19 out of 24 manufacturers, which isn’t the best. Most of the problems come from paint, weatherstripping, rear-hatchback, and its climate system. Many people who buy these cars are thrilled with them, but you can expect to pay more in overall maintenance costs due to new technology. Overall, it is one of the few fully electric vehicles on the market right now, and that alone can save you money in the long term.
Front and side view of a 2022 Ram 1500 Longhorn Limited
Placing much higher on Consumer Reports’ list is the 2022 Ram 1500. Ram placed at 16 out of 24 manufacturers, making it a more reliable option than the GMC Yukon. And obviously, this is a truck on a list of cars, but the high-ranking American cars are slim on Consumer Reports lists, so we elected to include it. The 2022 Ram 1500 dropped pounds to improve fuel economy and add more passenger room. It can last anywhere from 200,000 to 300,000 miles depending on your use. And with an average annual repair cost of $691, it won’t break the bank for quite some time.
112022 Ford Maverick 78/100
Ford
Front three-quarter shot of a light blue 2022 Ford Maverick Hybrid speeding in a free highway
Ah, yes, another truck on our list of cars. Unfortunately, the highest-ranking car on Consumer Reports for Ford was a truck. Go figure. Ford ranked 18 out of 24 car manufacturers, putting two spots below RAM. These trucks can last for up to 14 years and 200,000 miles, making them a good choice if you want a truck that will last a long time and has a lot of power. It even has a hybrid option that gives it decent MPG at 42 in the city and 33 on the highway. Outscoring every pickup in its class, the 2022 Ford Maverick is a small truck that can be bought on a budget and can withstand time for years to come.
10Cadillac XT5 2022: 79/100
Cadillac ranked in between Ram and Ford at 17 out of 24 manufacturers. With a nice mix of luxury and reliability, the 2022 Cadillac XT5 is at the top of Cadillac’s most reliable cars for the year. Consumer Reports placed it in its top 10 most reliable cars of the year, with a reliability rating of 89 out of 100. And while it doesn’t have the same appeal or drivability as one of Cadillac’s sedans, it is still a sleeper in terms of comfort and reliability. You won’t get Mercedes-level luxury, but you’ll get a pretty standard SUV that will last you for years to come with proper care and maintenance.
A front 3/4 action shot of a 2023 Chevrolet Traverse
Chevy ranked 20 out of 24 car manufacturers, according to Consumer Reports. The most reliable car out of Chevy’s lineup is the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse. It is a three-row crossover that gives the Ford Explorer and Honda Pilot a run for their money. Consumer Reports gave it a reliability rating of 82 out of 100, making it one of the more reliable cars on this list. It is predicted to last 12 to 17 years and upwards of 200,000 miles. On the road, the 2022 Chevy Traverse offers a smooth ride that you won’t complain about but won’t brag about, either.
82022 Chrysler 300: 83/100
Chrysler
Side view of a Chrysler 300s
Chrysler wasn’t included in 2022’s Consumer Reports since it was acquired by Stellantis in 2021, so we’ll take its 2021 information and see where it ranks. In 2021, Chrysler ranked 12 out of 28 manufacturers. That makes Chrysler, in general, pretty reliable. And one of the most reliable Chrysler cars is the 2022 Chrysler 300. Chrysler’s flagship luxury sedan offers plenty of room and comfort for your average buyer. Reports state that the 2022 Chrysler 300 can last up to 200,000 with minimal repairs needed. This makes it a great choice if you’re looking for luxury and reliability.
72022 Buick Encore: 84/100
Buick
2022 Buick Encore GX parked in front of a building
Coming in at the second-highest spot on the list is Buick. Buick ranked 11 out of 24 manufacturers for 2022. And coming in as one of Buick’s most reliable cars is the 2022 Buick Encore. The 2022 Buick Encore is a subcompact SUV that is a size smaller than the Toyota RAV4 or the Honda CR-V. The 2022 Buick Encore is expected to reach 200,000 miles with regular maintenance and is predicted to be reliable for many years. This car is meant to blend luxury with a small carbon footprint. This car is perfect for a small SUV that is easy on gas and the eyes.
The 2022 Lincoln Corsair came in at 10 out of 24 manufacturers, with a reliability rating of 87 out of 100. The Corsair has plenty of standard features, a silky smooth ride, and a base 250 horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with upgradable options for more power. This is a luxury vehicle, though, which means it comes with new technology that could be prone to breaking down. With a predicted 10-year price of $11,000 in regular maintenance fees, this car could put you back more than others on this list. Either way, if you bought one, it could be a solid choice.
52023 Chrysler 300: 77/100
Chrysler
Shot of the 2023 Chrysler 300s’ rear
The 2023 Chrysler 300 has been improved upon from the previous years (maybe not as much as the 2021 model), giving it the top place for an American car on the list of large cars, ranking number 2/4 overall. The 300 has long been one of those luxury cars that families across the nation have gone to for cross-country trips, which they still do, but with the addition of the smaller 3.6-liter V-6, it is now a very reliable in-town daily driver. One that will not break the bank when it comes to guzzling fuel.
42023 Tesla Model S: 78/100
Tesla
Three-quarter view of the Tesla Model S
Based upon the statistics over the last couple of years, ranking number 4 out of 15 in the luxury compact car segment is a good feat for an American car. Tesla is a company that has grown to success within a couple of years and will continue to grow as long as they offer reliable and safe models. The 2023 Tesla Model S features an electric motor for the front axle, and one for the back, to help accelerate the car from 0 to 60 in under two and a half seconds. The best part; the Tesla Model S has a range of up to 405 miles on a single charge.
A yellow Ford Maverick being driven on a country road
It seems like the same models are repeatedly on the list printed out by Consumer Reports every year unless there has been a significant facelift. The 2023 Ford Maverick Hybrid shows this by again appearing as the number one American small pickup in overall score ratings by Consumer Reports. The Hybrid Maverick Hybrid came in number 1 out of 12 in the compact truck segment, featuring a 2.5-liter engine combined with an electric motor to create a front-wheel-drive truck that produces up to 191 horsepower.
22023 Lincoln Corsair: 84/100
Lincoln
Front 3/4 view of a white 2023 Lincoln Corsair
The 2023 Lincoln Corsair is not as common as the Lincoln Aviator or Navigator, but the data shows that it is a much better buy if you can handle having a compact SUV because it was able to gain a ranking of 5 out of 37. The Corsair has a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine or a plug-in hybrid with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is optional for an added cost.
12023 C8 Chevrolet Corvette: 87/100
Mecum Auctions
A front 3/4 outdoor shot of a 2023 Chevrolet Corvette 3LT Convertible
Not much can be said about the Chevrolet Corvette that you do not already know. If you don’t, you have some significant reading to do. The one thing that may not be common knowledge is that out of all the American vehicles on the market, the Corvette has one of the best overall rankings from the people at Consumer Reports. The C8 also topped the list for the most satisfying car of the year. It received an overall ranking of 87 out of 100, achieving number 1 out of 24 sports cars that they tested. So, what could possibly be better than a fire-breathing sports car that can shoot 0 to 60 in under 3.0 seconds while still giving you the ride expected out of a top-notch sports car?
Nissan has given the eighth-generation Sentra a makeover for the 2024 model year. The latest updates offer a sleeker design and a more fuel-efficient powertrain, although the new fuel economy figures have yet to be revealed.
The 2024 Sentra is set to be available in S, SV, and SR grades when it goes on sale in late summer. The front of each Sentra now sports a fresh V-motion grille paired with a refined bumper design and brand-new headlights. The SV grade will also come equipped with an eight-speaker Bose sound system as part of the new SV Premium Package. Additionally, integrated side-mirror turn signals and Nissan’s Intelligent Around View Monitor are also included. The SV is available with a fresh 16-inch wheel design.
Volkswagen is organizing its first “International Health.Care.Run.” this year, with employees from a total of 21 locations in 11 countries around the world taking part. The initiative is more about supporting a good cause than having a good time, for the proceeds will go to charity.
The event kicked off in mid-May, with some 500 employees taking part at the plant in Bratislava, Slovakia, where Volkswagen produces models such as the Touareg and the up!. As things currently stand, the inter-site series will finish at the end of June with the run in Anchieta, Brazil, where, for example, the Polo is manufactured for the South American market.
“We have three difficult years behind us due to Covid – years in which it was virtually impossible to hold large-scale events,” said Dr. Lars Nachbar, Head of Volkswagen Group Health Care and Occupational Safety. “This is why we are delighted that with the Health.Care.Run. format we can finally organize another shared sporting experience for our employees – one that will be held at all sites.” The team organizing the event expects up to 20,000 people around the world to take part.
The length of the run will vary from plant to plant. In Wolfsburg, where the run will take place on June 17, employees can choose between a 3,300-meter and a 5,800-meter lap. “The fact that the runs will generally take place on the company premises is likely to be an additional motivating factor for many employees,” Nachbar said. “After all, it’s not every day that you get the chance to jog through the plant, possibly even past your own workplace.”
The patron of the international run is the Volkswagen brand Board of Management member for Production Christian Vollmer, himself an enthusiastic athlete. “Sport connects people. Many employees also see it as a chance to unwind from work. This is one of the reasons why I have supported the idea of Health.Care.Run. right from the start. Not to mention that it’s also for a good cause!” added Vollmer, who himself will be taking part in the run at the Wolfsburg headquarters in mid-June. “I hope that many colleagues around the world will do the same and that we will collectively make a very substantial donation.”
Volkswagen will calculate a donation based on the total number of kilometers its employees run during the Health.Care.Run. “That in itself is a good reason to take part in the run and may even motivate colleagues in Wolfsburg to opt for the longer distance,” said Daniela Cavallo, Chair of the Group Works Council. The money will go towards the ‘a chance to play’ project, which helps disadvantaged children and young people close to the Volkswagen plans and focuses on preventing violence as well as providing opportunities for learning and education.
“Children are our future. Projects that help improve their chances of living an independent life free of violence make an important contribution to society. With ‘a chance to play’ we can be certain that our donation will go where it is needed and be put to good use,” Cavallo underlined.
The projects funded by the ‘a chance to play’ initiative have been implemented with local partner organizations for over 20 years through cooperation between the Group Works Council and the international children’s charity Terre des hommes, and meet internationally recognized standards.
The Volkswagen Group made a solid start to fiscal year 2023. Despite the challenging global environment, operating profit before negative valuation effects, mainly from commodity hedging activities saw a strong increase in the first quarter.
Sales revenue grew by 22 percent to EUR 76 billion primarily driven by a recovery in sales volumes in Europe and North America. In addition, improved pricing had a positive effect.
Operating profit before valuation effects from commodity hedging increased by 35 percent to EUR 7.1 billion. The corresponding margin increased to 9.3 percent, and was therefore above the forecast target corridor for the Volkswagen Group of 7.5 to 8.5 percent.
Operating profit decreased year-on-year from EUR 8.3 billion to EUR 5.7 billion due to negative non-cash effects mainly from commodity hedging outside hedge accounting of EUR 1.3 billion in Q1 2023. In the prior-year quarter, operating profit had benefited from positive non-cash effects from commodity hedging of EUR 3.2 billion. Operating return on sales was 7.5 percent in the first quarter.
The Automotive Division generated net cash of EUR 2.2 billion in Q1 2023. Working capital suffered from continuing disruptions in the supply chains increased by EUR 1.9 billion year-on-year. Net cash flow also contained EUR 0.4 billion cash out from M&A transactions in the quarter.
Net liquidity in the automotive business decreased to EUR 38.4 billion, as expected in the first quarter due to the payment of the special dividend- in connection with the Porsche AG IPO. However, this decline was smaller than the special dividend distributed to shareholders.
The Group continued to systematically implement its BEV strategy, with a 42 percent year-on-year increase in deliveries in Q1. Deliveries totaled 141,000 BEV vehicles, representing a share of around 7 percent of total deliveries.
Overall deliveries continued to recover and were up 7.5 percent year-on-year. In March 2023, global deliveries increased significantly by 23.9 percent year-on-year. Deliveries in China fell by 14.5 percent in the first quarter, but the Group is confident that due to the expanded model range and China-specific technology, deliveries in this region will recover during the remainder of the year. With a high order book of 1.8 million vehicles in Western Europe, including 260,000 BEVs, customer demand for Volkswagen Group vehicles remained strong.
Based on the solid figures, Volkswagen Group confirms its outlook for the 2023 fiscal year issued on March 3, 2023.
Arno Antlitz, CFO, Volkswagen Group, said: “Volkswagen Group has made an encouraging start to 2023 with strong growth in revenues and operating profit before negative valuation effects from commodity hedging transactions. Based on this solid performance and an order book of 1.8 million vehicles at the end of Q1, we confirm our financial outlook for 2023.”
“Volkswagen is committed to investing in its global key growth regions. In Q1, we announced plans for a new factory in the US for the iconic Scout brand in the highly attractive rugged SUV and pick-up segment. We also announced the Group’s first overseas battery cell factory in Canada and launched the all-new ID.7 at the Auto Shanghai.”
Continued expansion into the Chinese and North American markets
Led by the “In China, for China” approach, the Group has introduced the new ‘100%TechCo’ project, which combines vehicle and component R&D and procurement. This is expected reduce development times for new products and technologies by around 30 percent. The Group plans to invest EUR 1 billion to establish a new center for innovation for fully connected electric cars, headquartered in Hefei. Volkswagen continues to work with on-ground partners, such as the joint venture between CARIAD and Horizon Robotics, to accelerate the development of automated driving in China and enable faster software development of China-specific technology concepts. The Group also unveiled the ID.7 in China, a further milestone on the path to a purely electric model range.
In North America, the Group is ramping up its global battery business with the Group’s first overseas battery cell factory in Canada. New BEV models like the ID. Buzz will further enlarge our portfolio of full-electric vehicles in the US. The Group is also driving the “Electrify America Boost Plan”, doubling the number of charging points by 2026 to 8.000. By electrifying the iconic “Scout” brand, the Group is entering the highly attractive truck and rugged SUVs segment. Therefore, plans to expand US charging capabilities are complemented by those to build a factory capable of producing 200,000 EVs a year in South Carolina.
Brand Groups Results
In the brand group Volume, vehicle sales increased by 36 percent compared to the prior period, even more than deliveries at 30 percent. Operating profit came in at EUR 1.7 billion. Operating margin increased by 1.7 percentage points to 5.3 percent.
The Premium brand group recorded a solid performance, with an operating profit of EUR 1.8 billion and an operating margin of 10.8 percent. Negative effects from fair value valuation of EUR 0.4 billion impacted operating profit in the first quarter of 2023. Net cash flow was impacted by investments in BEV production capacities and a build-up of working capital.
In Brand Group Sport & Luxury, Porsche’s operating margin remained stable in Q1 at 18.5 percent thanks to higher volumes, improved pricing, and better product mix. The automotive net cash flow is up from solid prior year level.
TRATON
TRATON reported a unit sales increase by 25 percent, with overall sales revenues up 31 percent driven by strong volume growth, positive price-mix effects and vehicle services. Operating margin was 8 percent (4 percent in, Q1 2022) due to better capacity utilization and positive price/mix compensating for higher input costs. Net cash flow recorded a strong increase despite a further build-up of working capital as a result of the improved operating performance and proceeds from the intragroup sale of Scania Finance Russia. Because of the solid start TRATON increased its margin guidance for FY 2023 for return on sales to a range of 7 to 8% (before 6 to 7%).
CARIAD
CARIAD saw sales revenues improve by 53 percent, driven by license revenues with brand groups. Operating profit was stable with EUR -0.4 billion, in addition investments in software platforms were made.
Capital markets day on June 21
On Capital Markets Day, the Volkswagen Group will provide a strategy update. The presentation will focus on the new team, the new entrepreneurial spirit, our strong technology platforms and how our brand groups will benefit from it, our regional strategies and our future financial targets.
Key Figures
Volkswagen Group
Q1
2023
20221
%
Volume Data2 in thousands
Deliveries to customers (units)
2,041
1,898
+ 7.5
Vehicle sales (units)
2,124
1,995
+ 6.5
Production (units)
2,273
2,044
+ 11.2
Employees (on March 31, 2023/Dec. 31, 2022)
676.9
675.8
+ 0.2
Financial Data (IFRSs), € million
Sales revenue
76,198
62,711
+ 21.5
Operating result before special items
5,747
8,458
–32.1
Operating return on sales before special items (%)
7.5
13.5
Special items
0
–130
x
Operating result
5,747
8,328
–31.0
Operating return on sales (%)
7.5
13.3
Earnings before tax
6,453
8,916
–27.6
Return on sales before tax (%)
8.5
14.2
Earnings after tax
4,730
6,743
–29.9
Automotive Division3
Total research and development costs
5,071
4,359
+ 16.3
R&D ratio (%)
8.0
8.5
Cash flows from operating activities
7,576
5,800
+ 30.6
Cash flows from investing activities attributable to operating activities4
5,332
4,309
+ 23.7
of which: capex
2,458
1,703
+ 44.3
capex/sales revenue (%)
3.9
3.3
Net cash flow
2,244
1,491
+ 50.5
Net liquidity at March 31
38,441
31,065
+ 23.7
1Prior-year figures adjusted (see disclosures on IFRS 17).
2Volume data including the unconsolidated Chinese joint ventures. These companies are accounted for using the equity method. Prior-year deliveries have been updated to reflect subsequent statistical trends.
2Including allocation of consolidation adjustments between the Automotive and Financial Services divisions.
3Excluding acquisition and disposal of equity investments: Q1 €4,954 (3,848) million.
Key Figures by brand groups and business fields fromJanuary 1 to March 31
Vehicle sales
Sales revenue
Operating result
Thousand vehicles/€ million
2023
2022
2023
20221
2023
20221
Volume brand group
1,193
918
33,163
24,361
1,742
877
Premium brand group (Audi)
323
244
16,883
14,282
1,816
3,535
Sport & Luxury brand group (Porsche Automotive2)
85
66
9,333
7,317
1,727
1,359
CARIAD
–
–
168
110
–429
–416
Battery
–
–
0
0
–72
–6
TRATON Commercial Vehicles
85
68
10,938
8,353
875
331
MAN Energy Solutions
–
–
901
761
101
55
Equity-accounted companies in China3
609
765
–
–
–
–
Volkswagen Financial Services
–
–
11,980
10,876
985
1,501
Other4
–171
–67
–7,168
–3,348
–997
1,222
Volkswagen Group before special items
–
–
–
–
5,747
8,458
Special items
–
–
–
–
–
–130
Volkswagen Group
2,124
1,995
76,198
62,711
5,747
8,328
Automotive Division5
2,124
1,995
63,463
51,210
4,583
6,784
of which: Passenger Cars Business Area
2,039
1,927
51,623
42,096
3,611
6,400
Commercial Vehicles Business Area
85
68
10,938
8,353
872
330
Power Engineering Business Area
–
–
901
761
100
54
Financial Services Division
–
–
12,736
11,502
1,164
1,544
1Prior-year figures adjusted (see disclosures on IFRS 17).
3The sales revenue and operating result of the equity-accounted companies in China are not included in the consolidated figures; the share of the operating result generated by these companies amounted to €625 (824) million.
4In the operating result, mainly intragroup items recognized in profit or loss, in particular from the elimination of intercompany profits; the figure includes depreciation and amortization of identifiable assets as part of purchase price allocation, as well as companies not allocated to the brands.
5Including allocation of consolidation adjustments between the Automotive and Financial Services divisions.
We’re getting ready for a fundamental change in how we do business and 2023 will be an important year for us. This year, our commercial transformation gathers pace as we evolve what we sell, how we sell and where we sell.
This transformation is crucial to our long-term ambitions and growth as a company. We will be fully electric by 2030, introduce new ways to access a Volvo car, roll out a seamless online and physical retail experience, and create a lot more direct relationships with our ever-growing consumer base around the world.
Europe, our largest sales region and furthest along in the move towards full electrification, is spearheading this transformation – already in 2022, online and direct sales represented 11 per cent of the total sales in our top five European markets.
In the United Kingdom the change is already well under way, with many direct sales channels already operational. Since 2019, it has been possible to order a Volvo car online in the UK. The subsequent launch of the Care by Volvo subscription service in September 2020 offered a new, flexible alternative to traditional car ownership. To date, more than 12,000 new cars have been sold by this direct channel.
In early 2022 we were the first manufacturer in the UK to launch an online direct sales platform for approved-used cars. We then provided a new solution for Fleet and Business consumers with a tool for SMEs to order and manage their company cars directly with us online.
In June this year we’ll be taking the next important step as the UK becomes our first 100 per cent direct market when we close the UK wholesale channel. It is important to note that we are not closing the Volvo Cars retailers. They continue to be an important part of a seamless online and physical consumer experience. Sweden will be the next market to switch to this model, while other markets in Europe will follow as they become ready.
Getting a new Volvo: you’re in the driver’s seat
In the UK, our new approach to getting a Volvo car is designed around flexibility for the consumer. You decide how you access a new Volvo model: through subscription, leasing, Personal Contract Purchase (PCP), Volvo Loan or outright purchase.
Regardless of whether you visit one of our retailer partners, walk into our urban studio, head to our website or use the Volvo Cars app, everyone should get the same outstanding and meaningful experience.
“Evolving consumer needs are the driving force behind this change. We want to provide the best possible experience for our consumers, whatever their buying preferences. The transformation is being undertaken in close collaboration with our retailer partners and we are confident it will deliver an industry-leading buying process,” says Kristian Elvefors, Volvo Car UK Managing Director. “It’s exciting to see the progress we’ve already made as we transition our business and continue the roll out of this new sales model. So far this year, 17% of our sales have been online and direct, and they continue to grow as we move towards the completion of this transformation.”
This simple and smooth buying process will be underpinned by our online store, volvocars.com. Transparent and national online pricing without haggling or hidden fees, as well as an easy-to-understand offer, makes ordering a new Volvo car a breeze.
Consumers can complete an order in a few simple steps and follow their car through every phase of the delivery process via the Volvo Cars app. Here, they also find all car-related services and functionalities in a user-friendly, seamless interface.
Apart from simplifying our offer and introducing more transparent pricing, we’re also investing in a centralised digital inventory system that will allow us to see all cars that are available across the country at any given time. That allows us to locate and deliver cars faster.
While online consumer relationships will play an increasingly important role, our physical retailers will always be a key component of our success. Not only will they deliver and service cars, they will remain responsible for a lot of everyday contact with consumers, such as providing test drives and assisting them through the new sales process.
“We are really looking forward to continuing our strong relationship with Volvo Car UK as we undergo this huge transformation,” says Chris Carr, Managing Director and owner of Volvo Cars Shrewsbury, who was among the first to sign the new partner agreement. “Volvo has shown willingness to listen to retailers throughout this journey and demonstrated openness. This collaboration leaves us, as retailers, in a really positive place to drive our businesses forward, while securing a fundamental role in the future of Volvo’s first direct sales market.”
Together with our retailer partners, we’ll also keep investing in advanced data analytics capabilities. By analysing how customers use our platforms, interact with our brand and use our products, we can understand them even better: what they want and how we can make their lives easier.
Vauxhall takes home the title of ‘Fleet Manufacturer of the Year’ at the Great British Fleet Awards 2023
Vauxhall Corsa was also awarded the ‘Best Fleet Supermini’, Vauxhall Astra was named ‘Best Lower Medium Fleet Car’, and Vauxhall Vivaro took ‘Medium Van of the Year’ at the awards
Vauxhall is one of the few brands able to offer fleets a fully electric van across its entire LCV line-up
By 2028, Vauxhall’s entire car and van range will be fully electric – seven years ahead of the Government deadline
Vauxhall has been awarded the title of ‘Fleet Manufacturer of the Year’, at last night’s Great British Fleet Awards 2023 in Milton Keynes organised by Fleet World. The Vauxhall Astra, Corsa and Vivaro were also celebrated, taking home the ‘Best Lower Medium Fleet Car’, ‘Best Fleet Supermini’, and ‘Medium Van of the Year’ titles, respectively.
The ‘Fleet Manufacturer of the Year’ title reflects Vauxhall’s position as one of the UK’s most versatile fleet operators. Across its Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) segment, it is one of the few manufacturers in the country able to offer fleets an electrified variant across its entire model line-up, alongside diesel versions. Vauxhall has been the UK’s best-selling e-LCV manufacturer for the past two years running.
Vauxhall’s passenger vehicle range has also grown significantly over the course of the past 12 months, with the brand now selling electrified variants across every model with the exception of the Crossland. By 2028 it will be an electric-only manufacturer, seven years ahead of the UK Government deadline. Vauxhall’s commitment to electrification, and its versatile product range is making it easier for businesses to go green.
The Vauxhall Vivaro was named the ‘Medium Van Of the Year’ at last night’s awards. The award winning Vivaro has been the UK’s best-selling electric light commercial vehicle for two consecutive years. Available with a 50kWh or a 75kWh battery, the Vivaro Electric achieves a WLTP range of up to 205 miles from a single charge and comes with a maximum payload of up to 1,226kg. The Vivaro Electric is joined by the Combo Electric and Movano Electric.
The Fleet World judges named the Vauxhall Corsa as their ‘Best Fleet Supermini’, a fitting title for the UK’s best-selling supermini of 2022, while the Astra took home the award for ‘Best Lower Medium Fleet Car’.
Both Corsa and Astra continue to be popular options for both private and fleet buyers. Astra offers efficient petrol and diesel variants as well as a highly efficient Plug-in Hybrid model capable of travelling up to 43 miles (WLTP, EAER) on electric power alone. Corsa has been available as a fully electric variant since 2020. The latest Corsa Electric provides up to 222 miles of range (WLTP) from its 50kWh battery, while a 0-80% charge takes just 30 minutes to complete from a 100kW rapid charger. The Astra Electric and Astra Sports Tourer Electric will be joining the Vauxhall range later this year, providing even more electric vehicle options for fleet customers.
John Challen, Editor, Fleet World, said: “Vauxhall has always been committed to the demands of fleet drivers and the latest Astra is just one example of how it still has its eye on the ball. The arrival of plug-in hybrid and electric versions of its core fleet models ensures that the brand will remain a popular choice as the market moves away from diesel and petrol power.”
James Taylor, Managing Director, Vauxhall, said: “I’m delighted to see that Fleet World has recognised Vauxhall as ‘Fleet Manufacturer of the Year’. It is a true indication of Vauxhall’s commitments to fleet users and how the latest Vauxhall range continues to adapt to meet the needs of today’s drivers as we move towards a fully electric car and van range from 2028.”
With the recent launch of the Astra GSe and the Astra Sports Tourer GSe, fleet users can now enjoy uprated electrified drivetrains and improved handling thanks to suspension and steering upgrades. Astra GSe and Astra Sports Tourer GSe are both eligible for a Benefit-in-Kind rate of just 8% and 12%, respectively.
After unveiling the game-changing 9X8 Hypercar last year, Team Peugeot TotalEnergies has embraced a new engineering challenge – recreating the new hybrid Le Mans Hypercar in LEGO® Technic™ form. The result is the LEGO® Technic™ PEUGEOT 9X8 24H Le Mans Hybrid Hypercar – a 1,775-piece 1:10 scale version of the race car.
In a new feat of engineering excellence, the design teams from LEGO Group and Peugeot Sport have created a precise 1:10 scale version of the pioneering 9X8 Hypercar. From the sleek silhouette down to the lime flashes on the livery, this new LEGO Technic model brings the Allure of the 9X8 to life in block form.
The 9X8 demonstrates PEUGEOT’s pursuit of electrification and embodies the brand’s commitment to competition at the highest level. The real-life four-wheel drive Hypercar’s seven-speed sequential transmission has been replicated in precise scale in this new model, which also features interpretations of the Hypercar’s unique doors, 952PS hybrid powertrain system, its novel suspension, combining a pushrod setup on the front axle with a pull rod system on the rear, and elegant profile. Details such as the V6 engine and glow-in-the-dark light elements are also evident.
Speaking about the 1,775-piece kit, Kasper René Hansen, Designer at the LEGO Group said: “Our two brands have come together to create a product that celebrates a new era of hybrid racing and engineering. Recreating the shapes and details of such an elegant car using LEGO Technic elements wasn’t an easy feat, but it’s been an honour to work so creatively with the Team Peugeot TotalEnergies on this one and I’m proud that together we have been able to build the Hypercar for real in LEGO Technic form.”
Olivier Jansonnie, PEUGEOT Sport Technical Director, said: “Our technical cooperation with the LEGO Group started in January 2022, five months before the PEUGEOT 9X8 reveal. It took one year to fully develop the project with the technical and design teams, allowing us to directly transpose the technical details of the PEUGEOT 9X8 to the LEGO Technic model. It was very important for both brands to create a model that is as realistic as possible. PEUGEOT, PEUGEOT Sport and the LEGO teams had numerous meetings about the development of the suspension and hybrid systems that cannot be replicated from photos. We thank the LEGO Group for this project, we are very proud and impressed by the final result which is more than we could have imagined.”
This latest addition to the LEGO Technic series measures over 13 cm high, 22 cm wide and 50 cm long when completed, and is sure to provide a challenge for PEUGEOT fans and LEGO enthusiasts alike.
The LEGO version of the innovative 9X8 Le Mans Hypercar was revealed at the first FIA World Endurance Championship race in Portugal – the 2023 6 Hours of Portimão. The championship will move to Spa-Francorchamps later in April, before the 9X8 makes its highly anticipated appearance at the Le Mans 24 Hour race on June 10th-11th.
The LEGO® Technic™ PEUGEOT 9X8 24H Le Mans Hybrid Hypercar set will be available via LEGO Stores and www.LEGO.com and through the PEUGEOT retailer network from 01 May priced at £169.99.
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