With the head of the Volkswagen brand in Russia, we were able to talk at the Moscow International Motor Show, where the public was first introduced Polo Sedan, developed specially for Russia. This car has become a central theme of our conversation. In addition, Mr. Wittemann told about the fate of rulers Up, about his attitude protective duties, GLONASS, and how he lives in Russia. - Are you satisfied with interest the Russians to the new model Polo Sedan? - We are very pleased with the early results, interest from our customers and the number of orders received on this machine. The car is already in showrooms all our Russian dealers, and I must say that before the end of the year we have already sold out. - There are any numbers? - Yes, of course. Until the end of the year we put about 10 thousand cars. - Will the company in the wake of the success of Volkswagen Polo Sedan is designed specifically for Russian cars A and B class? - I must say that Russia - a European country, so the tastes and preferences of Russian clients are the same as that of all Europeans. Most of the cars in our model line, for example, Tiguan and Touareg, has a lot of demand. But in the compact class, we just lacked a car like Polo Sedan. Him, we have developed specially for Russia, with the participation of Russian specialists and produce it, too, in your country. Adapted for the bad roads, cold weather, large luggage compartment, plenty of space for rear passengers - have it all Polo Sedan. - I would like to know about the line Up. Do you plan to run it in production? - It must go in the series, but whether it will come to Russia, depends solely on the development of the local market and its needs. - Polo Sedan got a list of cars involved in the recycling program. Shortly before the start of the program you spoke quite critical of it, believing that the jackpot goes wrong, first of all, AvtoVAZ and Russian producers. Now you have not changed their views? - The first wave has passed, and while it was sold 200,000 vouchers. Now, after the start of the second wave has sold 50,000 of vouchers. Thus, there are about 150 thousand. We just connect to this program. But I'm on his word not refuse. All this started a program specifically for Russian manufacturers. 90% of the vouchers are gone in favor of AvtoVAZ. But we must realize that if these vouchers will be purchased cars, for example, "VAZ-2107" - is unlikely to help the development of the Russian automobile industry. Unfortunately, this is a big problem. As for our 10 thousand cars, we sell them in any way that this program, without it. - Volkswagen made the list of strategic enterprises in Russia. How important is it for your company? - We produce Polo Sedan completely in Russia, and, no doubt, satisfy all the requirements that apply for inclusion in this list. In addition, investments in Kaluga plant of more than $ 1 billion, we are the largest investor in the Russian automotive industry. Therefore, I believe that we are to a large extent the Russian automaker. - At the moment, Russia is preparing a law that would somehow encourage foreign companies operating in Russia, to increase the localization of production. Nevertheless, nearly all automakers say the quality of Russian suppliers - is low. How Volkswagen is going to solve this problem? - The production Polo Sedan degree of localization of production already exceeds 40%. This is a very serious figure, but we shall not stop here. Maybe we will invite Russia to our foreign partners who can adjust their production here. But there is a chance that we will work with Russian suppliers. Of course, in the event that their products will meet our quality standards. - In Russia remain high protective duties on imports of foreign cars. How much do you think, justified the move, and bring it any good Russian car industry? - On the one hand, it helps Russian automakers, on the other side - it reduces competition, and without it there is no growth and development. Volkswagen was in favor of free competition. - Since we are talking about freedom of competition, I would like to know your views on the active "pushing" on the market of the GLONASS system, which, according to some reports, may be required to be installed on all cars produced in Russia. - We have a very good system for GPS-navigation, which, incidentally, Russified. And, of course, any change in this matter, would have cost us a lot of money. Therefore, we can not say that this situation we really like. - You are working in Russia for more than two years. How do you feel in our country, as far as you comfortable here? - I do not live in Moscow and the Moscow region, enjoying the fresh snow and fresh air. It seems to me that people in Russia are very kind and nice to talk to. At least with foreigners. I have some problems with the Russian language. Thought that after two years I'll be able to speak fluent on it, but most of what I managed to achieve - is to speak Russian a little. Other problems that I see here, they are typical for any of the giant metropolis. I'm talking primarily about traffic jams. This, of course, a disaster.
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