Volkswagen's Sustainability Indexes Confirm Progress in Human Resources and Corporate Citizenship

WOLFSBURG – September 30, 2008: Volkswagen has now qualified for two prestigious sustainability indexes: the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index, considered to be the world’s leading sustainability index, and the Dow Jones Sustainability STOXX. Apart from recognizing achievements in highly-efficient technological solutions and environmental protection, the latest evaluation places special emphasis on progress in human resources and corporate citizenship.

Commenting on the results, Dr. Horst Neumann, Member of the Board of Management of Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft for Human Resources, said: "Volkswagen’s strategy of a timely response to changes in economic, ecological and social conditions is proving fruitful. This assessment also confirms that we are moving closer to our goal of becoming the most attractive employer."

Launched in 1999, the indexes track the performance of companies in the field of sustainability and corporate citizenship. Companies must qualify for selection each year. The evaluation covers criteria such as environment management and climate strategy, working conditions, safety and health, supplier management, risk management and corporate citizenship.

Volkswagen achieved a high performance level in all criteria. This year’s evaluation paid particular attention to progress in human resources and in attractiveness as an employer. Volkswagen’s performance in occupational health and safety, corporate citizenship, transparency and commitment was also well above average. The recently introduced "mood barometer", a survey in which each Volkswagen employee can express their opinion on the company and their individual work situation, is singled out for praise.