Skoda Superb MkII

Czech Automakers To Raise Production

While most of major European automakers such as Ford, Opel, BMW, and Daimler are cutting production in response to low demand determined by the ubiquitous economic crisis, their Czech colleagues are intending to increase production numbers as more and more Europeans prefer small and more fuel-effective budget vehicles.

Martin Jahn, a representative of Škoda, the largest Czech producer which is part of VW group, said: "Car production will grow by 4 to 5% percent this year, against a previously expected 8%. The growth in 2009 will also be slower." But he optimistically added that the situation should return to normal by 2010.

TPCA, a Toyota-Peugeot-Citroen joint venture whose plant is located near Prague, is also planning to raise output in the next year up to 340.000 in comparison with current 320.000. Its vice-president Jiří Černý said that their plans are backed by steady growth of demand for the concern’s models on most Western European markets.

Photo: by Thomas doerfer (wikimedia.org)

Date: 16/10/2008