German automaker Volkswagen has announced that they expect to sell more than 10 million vehicles in 2014, with hopes of overtaking Toyota as the world’s largest automaker in the process.

The prediction was made by group CEO Martin Winterkorn at the group’s presentation of its 2013 financial results in Berlin, Germany, where he also confirmed that the group exceeded its own targets during the 2013 financial year.

VW Group sold 9.72 million vehicles in 2013, which topped General Motors’ 9.71 million, to become the world’s second-largest carmaker. This showed an increase of 2.2% in sales revenue, a rise of 400000 new cars over 2012.

“2013 was an extremely challenging year for European car makers in particular. We weren’t helped either by our home market or by exchange rates. Nevertheless, the group put up a strong showing despite the difficult conditions,” said Winterkorn.

“With rising volume and new models, we will increasingly see positive earnings effects as well,” he added.

The German automaker has already enjoyed a 4.7% increase in sales in the first two months of the year, giving it a good chance to meet the 10 million sales goal it outlined back in 2007 – four years earlier than originally planned.

VW further said deliveries are poised for further growth next year as the company plans to launch over 100 new models and facelifts in 2014 and 2015.

Volkswagen sales in South Africa

Locally, Volkswagen Group South Africa ended 2013 as the market leader of the passenger car segment for the fifth consecutive year with the total sales of 102 962 units (Volkswagen – 83 627 and Audi – 19 335). In the total vehicle market, Volkswagen delivered 111 722 vehicles and gained the market share of 17.2%.

In the passenger car segment, VW delivered 5.93 million vehicles to customers worldwide during the full year. In South Africa, 83 627 units were sold in this segment. The Polo Vivo (35 041) and Polo (27 953) – both locally produced – were the top selling models in the local passenger car market in 2013.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles delivered 551 900 vehicles to customers last year. In South Africa, 8760 light and medium commercial vehicles were sold, with the best sellers being the Amarok (4 767) and Crafter (945).