Volkswagen Launches Virtus Sedan In Ghana Amid Calls For Full Implementation Of Automotive Policy

The launch of the new Volkswagen Virtus in Accra marked a significant milestone for Volkswagen Group Africa and the Ghanaian automotive industry.During the launch event, Martina Biene, Managing Director and Chairperson of Volkswagen Group Africa, emphasized the importance of fully implementing the Ghana Automotive Development Policy (GADP) to unleash Ghana's potential as a leading auto manufacturing hub in West Africa.

Biene, who also heads the African Association of Automobile Manufacturers (AAAM), praised the policy for attracting investments from Volkswagen and other Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to Ghana.

However, she stressed the need for complete execution, especially regarding import duties on used cars and bans on older vehicles aged 10 years and above.Biene's remarks at the Virtus launch highlighted the critical role that full GADP implementation could play in positioning Ghana as a leader in new vehicle manufacturing in West Africa.

She noted that Volkswagen's current investment of $54 million could translate into an annual production capacity of 140,000 cars in Ghana, provided that all aspects of the policy are fully enacted.The launch of the Virtus sedan, the fourth vehicle line assembled at Volkswagen Ghana's Tema facility, was announced by Jeffrey J.O.

Peprah, CEO of Volkswagen Ghana.

She highlighted Volkswagen Ghana's achievement of selling 6,000 vehicles last year and projected that this number could significantly increase to 30,000-50,000 with full implementation of the GADP.The Ghana Automotive Development Policy (GADP) aims to transform Ghana into a competitive auto industry hub in West Africa.

Grace Janet Mason, the South African High Commissioner, commended Volkswagen's commitment to vehicle assembly in Africa and its contribution to establishing Ghana as a key manufacturing destination in the region.

 

 

: Featured Video