Volkswagen Routan Not Dead Yet, Just On A Long Hiatus

Despite rumors of its impending demise, the Volkswagen Routan will apparently resume production in summer 2013. But the big question is why Volkswagen will have halted production of the Chrysler-based minivan for nearly a year? Automotive News spoke to VW's Scott Vazin regarding the Routan, with the news outlet reporting that VW plans "to offer the 2013 model year Routan" without changes and that it will continue to be assembled in Windsor. There is no set schedule for production of the Routan to restart, but it's "a safe bet" to happen by summer, he said. While inventory numbers were not available for the Routan, the vehicle hasn't been produced since July, and sales were down 17 percent year over year. The year-long gap in production is puzzling to say the least, but the missing inventory numbers are a giant "X' factor in the rationale behind VW's decision to suspend production. A 7-12 month supply of Routans is unlikely, but if demand is so poor as to suspend production for that long, why bother carrying on with the vehicle? Only 8,882 Routans have been built in 2012, a 38 percent drop compared to 2011. Manufacturing professionals in the commentariat – we know you're out there – please feel free to chime in with your expertise. from The Truth About Cars http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com

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