Wolfgang Bernhard presents Pope Benedict XVI with two ambulances for the Vatican and Africa
Volkswagen Group supports World Youth Daywith 100 vehicles
Cologne/Wolfsburg/Rome, 19 August 2005 - Two specially equipped ambulances were presented to Pope Benedict XVI in Cologne today by the Chairman of the VW brand Board of Management, Dr. Wolfgang Bernhard. The special vehicles were handed over at the Archbishop�'s Residence in Cologne during the World Youth Day. The first vehicle is to be deployed in Rome as the Vatican�'s official ambulance, while the second is to be used at a Catholic mission in Africa.
Volkswagen is supporting the XX World Youth Day with 100 Group vehicles to transport guests and organizers. In total, some one million visitors are expected in Cologne.
"We are delighted to be supporting an important event such as the World Youth Day," said Bernhard. "The young people coming together in Cologne are our future. The message of tolerance, optimism and understanding among nations they are sending all over the world comes from Germany this year, in many ways a valuable sign in itself."
Given the existing extensive fleet, Pope Benedict XVI abstained from commissioning further "Papamobil" vehicles. Volkswagen was, however, pleased to act on a request from the Vatican to build two ambulances instead. "It is meaningful to offer assistance where it is needed," said Bernhard.
The ambulances are LT 35 high roof panel vans manufactured by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles and powered by 158 bhp, 2.8 l diesel engines. The vehicles have been equipped to the Vatican�'s own specification and include extensive medical apparatus.
Photos:
Photos documenting the presentation of the vehicles are available from 6.00 p.m. today at www.volkswagen-media-services.com
and http://www.presseportal.de/story.htx?firmaid=9260&keygroup=bild.
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