Indian Plant Buzzes with German Excitement, Begins Volkswagen Polo Production

What do Volkswagen and India have in common? Apart from the new Pune plant, we can safely say that absolutely nothing. But since the aforementioned plant was inaugurated on March 31, there's enough reason for us to report that Volkswagen India yesterday commenced pre-series production of the new Polo at the Pune plant.

And who do you need when a new car rolls off the production line? Well, the new Minister for Economics, Labour and Transportation of the German Federal State of Lower Saxony, Dr. Philipp Rösler, of course. Mr. Rösler gave the go ahead for the first welded body of the car. With his blessing and in the presence of the German Consul General, Walter Stechel, the first finished body of the Polo proceeded to the paint shop.

"The Volkswagen Group is one of the world’s largest car manufacturer providing wealth and employment for many. As such, it is a great pleasure for me to see the expansion plans and the long term perception of the Group with its headquarters in Wolfsburg in my home state Lower Saxony. The Volkswagen plant here in Pune is a true example of German excellence meeting Indian spirit and I would like to congratulate the management on the commendable initiative", Minister Dr. Rösler stated.

"We are so proud and delighted with the plant been inaugurated a year ahead of its schedule. This event today marks the next successful step on the entire effort of the team. With the first body of the Polo taking shape today, we are well on our way to fulfilling our commitment," Jörg Müller, President and Managing Director of Volkswagen Group India, said.

Jokes aside, the Pune plant will begin building the Skoda Fabia compact car in May 2009. Production of a hatchback version of the Volkswagen Polo specially developed for the Indian market will be added from 2010.

Moreover, it's worth noting that the 580 million euro investment was the largest made by a German company in the country. The facility has a maximum annual production capacity of 110,000 vehicles destined for delivery to the Indian market.