Volkswagen has announced plans to introduce a pickup truck at its São José dos Pinhais plant in Paraná, Brazil, currently dedicated to assembling the T-Cross SUV. This new model, referred to internally as Project Udara, is part of the automaker’s €1 billion investment cycle in the country extending until 2028.
In addition to the pickup, the investment includes the development of two flex-hybrid vehicles, a new SUV, and a new engine, slated for production at the Brazilian assembly lines in São Bernardo do Campo and São Carlos.
The forthcoming pickup, larger than the existing Saveiro model produced in São Bernardo do Campo, is expected to feature a flex-fuel engine, with potential hybrid variants. Project Udara is set to be constructed on the MQB platform, and its launch is expected in early 2026.
Source: Automotive Business Read The Article
PSR Analysis: The move is similar to what GM did in 2023 with its Montana and is an obvious step, given the success seen in Toro’s sales. On the other hand, Stellantis is protecting its market with product diversification with the recently launched RAM Rampage. The medium size pickup trucks already have the heart of Brazilian market, and this market space should increase with broader portfolio offerings that compete with SUVs. PSR
Fabio Ferraresi is Director, Business Development South America, for Power Systems Research
