“Allez les Marques”: The stage was cleared for the Volkswagen Group Night in Paris yesterday, when Volkswagen Group brands presented a groundbreaking new fleet on the eve of this year’s “Mondial de l’Automobile”.

Volkswagen, Audi, Bentley, Bugatti, Lamborghini, Porsche, Seat, Škoda and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles not only presented their novelties in a 40-minute show, but also took guests and experts on a journey through the fascinating world of the Group brands. Some 1,500 representatives from national and international media made use of this opportunity for intensive discussions with the specialists on Volkswagen’s innovative strength.

The new Passat was one of the evening’s highlights – both the sedan and the station wagon versions were surrounded by journalists, cameras and photographers. Sustainable technologies combined with an international product strategy, new mobility solutions and the digital world: The Passat will have a definitive impact on the future of the automobile industry and the streetscape.

Although economic conditions remain uncertain and difficult to read, CEO Martin Winterkorn believes the signs for the automotive industry are once again looking good. “As you know, we laid important strategic foundations for the future of Volkswagen in recent months.” These include the integration of Porsche and cooperation with Suzuki as well as the acquisition of a majority shareholding in Italdesign or the new plants, products and modular toolkits. “We are working flat out to make Volkswagen the best and most future-proof automotive group in the world.” In this context, size is a welcome side-effect, but not the objective of the Group’s actions.

In Paris and elsewhere, green technology has been pervading the exhibition halls for several years now. This fall, it’s all about vehicles for the mass market: The spotlight is on affordable sedans and station wagons, not exclusive sports models and exotic microcars. Visitors to the Paris Motor Show can admire the automobile novelties until October 17. Take a look for yourself…