It has been a rough couple of weeks for Germany’s leading car manufacture Volkswagen as the company is deep in the middle of an embarrassing emissions scandal. There is no doubt that the company will be taking a major hit to both their sales and brand as a result, but in October, the first full month since the scandal surfaced, Volkswagen managed to see a sales increase in the U.S.
Sales for Volkswagen vehicles were up 0.24 percent year over year in the United States, and while the small increase is better than a loss, the number may not be as good of a sign when put into perspective.
After the emissions scandal hit the media, Volkswagen of America began offering steep discounts on their non-diesel vehicles to help keep sales afloat. Also, when compared to some of the other leading car manufacturers, many of which saw double-digit gains in October, Volkswagen clearly still has a rough road ahead.
Volkswagen knows the future isn’t looking too bright, but they are counting on their brand loyalty to hold things together until things smooth over.
“We would like to again thank our customers for their patience and loyalty,” said Mark McNabb, chief operating officer, Volkswagen of America. “Volkswagen is committed to making things right and actively working to restore trust.”
Sources: Volkswagen, BBC News
Photo: Rob Brewer [Flickr]
