On November 16, the 2012 Volkswagen Passat won the Motor Trend magazine “Car of the Year” award at the the 2011 LA Auto Show. Produced in Chattanooga, Tenn., the Passat incorporates Faurecia technology and design inside, outside and under the vehicle.
Motor Trend cited the sedan’s clean and simple styling, “executed with a precision normally seen on expensive luxury cars.”
“We are delighted that Volkswagen has earned one of the most prestigious awards in our industry,” said Faurecia North America President Mike Heneka, “and we are thrilled to have played an extensive role in the development and production of the 2012 Passat.”
Faurecia Interior Systems supplies the new Passat with instrument panels that feature a foamed, soft-touch skin, while Faurecia Automotive Seating provides manual front seat structures and power front seat backrests for the Passat.
Faurecia Emissions Control Technologies supplies complete exhaust systems for the Passat from a new just-in-time facility in Volkswagen’s Chattanooga supplier park. Faurecia has supported the design and development of unique emissions control packages for three of the engines available for the vehicle.
Faurecia Automotive Exteriors furnishes a lightweight front-end carrier to support the Passat’s grille, headlamps, bumper, fan and other front-end components.
“All four of Faurecia’s business groups are joining Volkswagen in celebrating its Car of the Year Award and are expressing gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to the Passat’s success,” said Heneka. “We appreciate the confidence that Volkswagen has shown in our relationship and the confidence in the 2012 Passat that the Motor Trend panel and auto show visitors have demonstrated by their enthusiasm for this vehicle.”
The Volkswagen Group is Faurecia’s largest customer worldwide, representing 25 percent of the Group’s 2010 sales.