First up for this year’s SOP line is the T-Cross. The vehicle, which is produced at the Navarra plant in Spain, was the first model from this year’s SOP range to go on tour. It will visit the plants in Wolfsburg, Osnabrück, Emden, Zwickau, Bratislava, Palmela, and Pamplona. “Volkswagen – you know what it is you’re getting. The T-Cross is a very good example of this. Take a look at its design: it’s sporty yet feminine. I really like that.” “We’re Looking at Every Last Detail” Mission X: Interview with Matthias Rabe and Dirk Große-Loheide about the cost reduction program at Volkswagen Lowering costs with the drive shaft After intensive competitive comparisons, several supplier workshops, and detailed cost analyses, a team comprising Procurement, Development, Competitive Analysis, and Value Engineering staff succeeded in drafting a concept for a cost-optimized drive shaft. The new component will reduce vehicle weight by up to four kilograms and will reduce materials costs by at least 25 percent. Wall thickness is being reduced thanks to optimized requirements. The design of various components is being simplified to streamline the manufacturing process. Current SOP models are presented live to the Production team T-Cross Roadshow: On Tour at our Production Plant Patrícia Ramos, Final Inspection, Quality, Palmela. “The design of the T-Cross really does draw the eye. It’s a super sporty little car that can’t be missed when it’s out on the road. I was happy to take advantage of the opportunity to see the T-Cross at the plant. I’m curious about the models we’ll be seeing as part of the roadshow.” Ján Braniš, Production Employee, Body Shop, Bratislava. In Palmela: the new T-Cross puts the team in a good mood. In Bratislava: The T-Cross pays a visit to Slovakia.