No hiding under Beetles
The two automakers are set to merge next year, which should make things easier for Porsche since VW's compact cars, like the Golf and New Beetle, could help offset the fuel economy of Porsche's performance cars.
But Porsche doesn't want to take that approach, Von Platen said. Porsche will meet its fuel economy targets in the U.S. on its own, he insisted, regardless of its corporate relationship with VW.
"It is very important that Porsche meet the target set for us on our own," Von Platen said.
It's also very important to Porsche's customers, who are looking for "social acceptance," he said.
"We want clearly to show that we can contribute," Von Platen said.
NEXT: Diesel options
