Free iPad customer magazine download in iTunes Store coming soon

Internet version available end of June

Wolfsburg/Dubai, 14 June 2010 - Volkswagen, Europe's largest car manufacturer, has established itself as the first automaker to develop a digital customer magazine 'app' application programme especially for the iPad.

In anticipation of a Middle East iPad launch, an internet version of the innovative app, called 'DAS.' - Digital Automotive Space will be available from the end of June. The announcement of DAS., which will initially be available in five languages, also coincides with the forthcoming European launch of the revolutionary Apple iPad.

"DAS. is an important building block in Volkswagen's digital marketing strategy and gives us the opportunity for an interactive dialog with our customers. Our goal is to transmit the fascination of the brand and its products in a new digital dimension, creating a global experience," said Luca de Meo, Head of Marketing at the Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand, at the launch of the iPad app.

With each issue containing five chapters detailing the Volkswagen world, the specially developed iPad app allows users to enjoy the magazine's themes in an innovative virtual reality, using the familiar functions of the iPhone.

Volkswagen makes comprehensive use of the iPad's digital potential. The 360° images, for example, give the user a realistic impression of technical features on the Volkswagen Touareg such as "Area View". By the end of this month, it will also be possible to integrate content in social networks such as Facebook.

DAS. may be Volkswagen's first iPad innovation, but it certainly isn't its first app, and if its recent successes are any indication of how the new app will be received, then DAS. is sure to be an overwhelming hit.

Despite being launched just last month, the new Volkswagen e-Game, "Touareg Challenge", has already been downloaded by over 1 million fans with iPhones and iPods. Volkswagen has made the app game available for download free of charge in the App Store.

Stefan Mecha, Manager Director of Volkswagen Middle East, said, "The new Volkswagen Touareg will be available in the Middle East later this year, but judging by the massive amount of e-Game downloads, it appears our regional customers really can't wait that long for a test drive."

To transform the virtual driving experience into a real one, there is an integrated search function directing users to the nearest Volkswagen dealer. This function can also be used to request product brochures and test drives. Buttons to Facebook, Twitter and e-mail enable users to connect with friends all over the world and describe what it's like to drive the Touareg or find out whose car was the fastest or most fuel-efficient.

Six separate on and off-road routes, including an ocean drive and an off-road adventure, give users the opportunity to experience the Touareg's inherent versatility. The game features both the Touareg V6 TDI BlueMotion Technology and the Touareg Hybrid. Inspired by rally racing, the routes' stages are timed and must be mastered under various weather and road conditions.

The unique aspect of this game is that users who choose the Touareg Hybrid are awarded additional points if they exhibit a fuel-efficient driving style. Once users have completed a route, they automatically receive access to additional paint jobs and new rims in the game's car configurator.

Realistic driving graphics, dynamic lighting effects and individualised control deliver even more driving thrills. Background music to fit the on-screen action pushes virtual driving excitement to the max, with a choice of three bands from the Volkswagen Sound Foundation: Tonbandgerät, jona:S and Jupiter Jones.

-Ends-

For more information, please contact:
Mona El-Mahdi
Public Relations Manager
Volkswagen Middle East
Tel: +971-4-204 5888
Fax: +971-4-204 5898
E-mail: mona.elmahdi@volkswagen.avme.ae

Nick Langmead
Consultant
Impact Porter Novelli
Tel: +971-4-330 4030
Fax: +971-4-330 4031
E-mail: n.langmead@ipn.ae

Please also register on the Volkswagen international press website at www.volkswagen-media-services.com

And follow us on twitter at @VWMiddleEast

© Press Release 2010