Volkswagen Australia launches website to provide stock delay updates

Volkswagen Australia has launched a website for its customers to keep track of which models are affected by the global semi-conductor shortage.

The growing problem associated with a lack of computer chips has hampered stock levels for manufacturers worldwide, with the effects also being felt in Australia – triggering Volkswagen's local arm to launch a website which details the reasons behind delivery delays.

Having already confirmed it was facing setbacks for Australian deliveries of the Golf, Tiguan and Touareg, Volkswagen last week announced its new Arteon Shooting Brake would be affected, with a limited number of the local variants landing on our shores this year.

On the new website, Volkswagen says it currently has a secure supply of Polo, T-Cross, T-Roc and Tiguan Allspace models, as well as expecting deliveries of the updated Caddy to begin this month before Crafter 50 and Amarok shipments also arrive, although the latter model is currently experiencing shortages too.

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Arrivals of the Mk8 Golf have been affected by the chip shortage

Volkswagen Australia Managing Director, Michael Bartsch, says the local supply shortfall is actually less than it has been for regulation-based delays in the past, but admits this particular issue is hampering a wider range of models.

"To place the current semi-conductor issue in context, the brand experienced longer delays on certain models due to the mass re-testing required by the adoption of WLTP fuel consumption testing in Europe," said Bartsch.

"For instance, the full Passat and Arteon ranges are only this year returning to local showrooms after prolonged WLTP related absences.

"Nevertheless, the shortage of this key component is being felt in some ranges. While the supply disposition changes rapidly, even daily, Volkswagen is resolved to provide customers with the latest information possible."

Despite the demand-related dramas, Volkswagen posted a seven per cent increase in sales to the end of June compared to last year, with the Amarok standing as its best-selling model, shifting 3924 units in the first half of 2021.