Problems with PPE and SSP
The development of new EV platforms remains a headache for the Volkswagen Group. The introduction of the electric Audi Q6 e-tron is reportedly further delayed, the planned SSP base is being overhauled and VW’s software division is being swept.
We initially expected the fully electric Audi Q6 e-tron and its Porsche cousin, the electric Macan, this year. However, a year ago it was announced that Porsche would not make it. Not surprisingly, the introduction of the Audi Q6 e-tron also took a little longer. Yet, given the many teasers recently (the interior has even been completely shown), it was expected that it would still be presented this year. That doesn’t seem to be happening anyway.
Automobilwoche understands that the introduction has been postponed to March 2024. The reason according to that medium: months of delay in the development of the PPE base. That’s actually just the tip of the iceberg, it seems. There are according to Manager Magazine namely also problems with the development of the SSP basis, which will soon be widely used throughout the Volkswagen Group. This new architecture is planned for 2025, but would be completely overhauled. Whether that period is still feasible…
The fuss surrounding the platforms is inextricably linked to setbacks at Cariad, the software division of the Volkswagen Group. Last July there were also rumors that problems at Cariad would cause delays for various EVs (including the Q6 e-tron and electric Macan). At Cariad, the problems are said to have piled up to such an extent that it cost former CEO Herbert Diess his job. Now it is said that around 2,000 jobs at Cariad itself are also at risk, although it is questionable whether this is the result of problems or whether work can simply continue with less manpower.
– Thanks for information from Autoweek.nl