Will the next Golf GTI feature 'tuning by Porsche' badges? Probably not, but an agreement by the VW board to rescue the debt-ridden Porsche car business definitely opens up possibilities for close co-operation.
Martin Winterkorn, boss of VW
Talks are due to start immediately between the two companies about how to begin the integration process, says VW, although it has confirmed Porsche will retain its independence and its Stuttgart HQ.
A statement from VW's chairman Martin Winterkorn after yesterday's meeting to approve the takeover, suggests the two companies will be looking carefully at ways to reduce costs.
'The envisaged union of Volkswagen and Porsche follows a compelling industrial logic and offers promising perspectives: it makes two strong companies even stronger. Volkswagen and Porsche have excellent know-how at their disposal and can use their resources even more efficiently by combining them,' he says
Would 'handling by Porsche' badges annoy PHers?
'For this reason, we expect additional growth opportunities, safeguarding existing jobs and creating new ones. At the same time, we can call on our considerable experience in the integration of proud and successful brands rich in tradition.
'Like Audi today, Porsche can also continue its independent development under the aegis of Volkswagen and preserve its own identity. We have great respect for the achievements of the Porsche workforce and are convinced that Porsche can enrich the Volkswagen Group – just as Volkswagen can vice versa enrich Porsche.'