BERLIN, April 13 (Reuters) - Volkswagen reported a dip in global deliveries at the start of the year, falling 4% year on year in the first three months of 2026, as the German carmaker battles with
Volkswagen's first-quarter deliveries drop 4% on weak China, US
Volkswagen Faces Global Delivery Challenges in Early 2026
By Rachel More
Overview of First-Quarter Performance
BERLIN, April 13 (Reuters) - Volkswagen reported a 4% fall in global deliveries in the first three months of 2026, as weak demand in China and the U.S. weighed on the German automaker.
The group is battling to stem losses in key overseas markets, facing intensifying competition from Chinese rivals such as BYD, and pressure from tariffs and the end of electric vehicle subsidies in the United States.
Regional Breakdown of Deliveries
First-quarter deliveries slumped 15% in China and 20.5% in the U.S., Volkswagen said in a statement.
Executive Commentary
"The first quarter of 2026 was once again characterized by very challenging economic and geopolitical conditions," sales chief Marco Schubert said, adding that the global automotive market was in decline.
Impact on Volkswagen Brands
China's slowdown has also hit Volkswagen brands Porsche and Audi, whose quarterly deliveries in the world's largest auto market fell 21% nL8N40S25L and 12%, respectively.
Competitive Landscape in China
Once a key growth engine for German carmakers, China has become a major challenge for Volkswagen and rivals Mercedes-Benz and BMW, as a cut-throat price war with fast-moving local brands squeezes margins.
Volkswagen's Strategic Response
Plans for Recovery in China
Ahead of the Beijing auto show later this month, Volkswagen is banking on a wave of new EVs developed with local partners to regain ground in China.
European Market Performance
Model launches are also planned for Europe, where the group maintained growth in the first quarter.
Deliveries rose 4% in Western Europe and 8% in Central and Eastern Europe, according to the statement.
(Reporting by Rachel More and Amir Orusov. Editing by Miranda Murray and Mark Potter)
