Volkswagen is gearing up for the IAA motor show in Munich, which starts next week and will include debuts for the likes of the new Tiguan, the new Passat (estate only, revealed today, and not coming to Ireland), and a new concept car which may reference the Mk1 and Mk2 Golf.
Abilities, needs, and visions
To show off all of that, Volkswagen, of course, needs a stand, and that stand aims to be more welcoming and open than most. Imelda Labbé, a Member of the Board of Management of the Volkswagen Brand responsible for Sales, Marketing and After Sales, said: "People have individual abilities, needs and visions. In spite of all of these differences, we still have one thing in common: the future. It is up to us to shape this future. This is the central message of Volkswagen at IAA Mobility. It is a message that we have summarised under the hashtag #OneFuture."
Volkswagen says that its 'Open Space' stand will adhere to the principles of being 'communicative, inclusive and barrier-free.' The design features lots of open space and uses natural wood and glass to make for a welcoming look.
The stand is designed to be mostly barrier-free, and as well as a route-guidance design built into the floor, there are also stairlifts, ramps and wheelchair-accessible counters for those with mobility issues. The stand staff have been trained in sign language for those with hearing difficulties, while there are 'acoustic instruments' that can act as hearing aids. The stand design has been done in consultation with the German Federation of the Blind, the community of individuals with hearing impairments and the Representative Body for Severely Disabled Employees at Volkswagen.
QR codes for info
QR codes have, of course, been added to the main displays, which allow the stand visitors to view info on the various models on display, all of which is supposed to be written in plain, simple language.
The stand also includes a kind of inside-out display, in that lots of the recycled materials that Volkswagen now uses in its interiors are integrated into the design of the stand and are supposed to be touched and felt.
"The Open Space symbolises Volkswagen's commitment to diversity and inclusion," said Labbé. "After all, the name of our brand encompasses all people. This is why we are committed to removing as many barriers as possible to initiate a dialogue with as many people as possible. This is the only way for us to learn about our customers' interests in areas like vehicle design and operation."
Live shows
As well as the main new vehicle reveals, the stand will also be home to a series of events during the motor show. Those include a series of #OneFuture Talks, in which Volkswagen experts and guests will discuss socially relevant issues. One session will focus on ways that artificial intelligence is changing our lives and ways that social responsibility can be brought to life.
There will also be live music, with artists Ian Hooper, Lauraine and Tom Dibb. Following the shows, fans can have themselves photographed with the artists and get their autographs.
In "Volkswagen up close" powered by Volkswagen Talent Marketing, company employees will share insights into their work. They will also provide visitors with information about entry-level job opportunities at Volkswagen.
During Product Talks, Volkswagen experts will present the highlights of both vehicles displayed on stage and share details about the vehicles' design and development phases. Visitors will also have an opportunity to look over the shoulder of a Volkswagen designer as they work.
The ID. Drivers' Club Talk will be a panel discussion with guests who will delve into various issues related to electromobility and the ID. family. This community of and for ID. drivers have already helped to shape the development of ID. models, says VW.
"My Volkswagen Moment" will be the focus of Community Love Stories. People will talk about their journeys and their life with cars here. Against a visual backdrop, they will describe unforgettable stories, adventures and emotional moments.
It all kicks off in Munich next Tuesday, the 5th of September.