Those that know me are aware that I am an optimist by nature. Even though 2021 was not the year we were expecting, with Covid-19 and the semiconductor shortage impacting our production capacity and financial results, demand for SEAT and CUPRA products returned to pre-pandemic levels. In fact, we closed 2021 with 470,500 vehicles delivered to customers, more than 10% higher compared to 2020.
2021 was the year where we began a necessary transformation that looks to the future.
Last year also provided us with several other highlights. One of the most important ones, and my personal favourite, was the launch of our first 100% electric vehicle, the CUPRA Born. A tribute to one of our home city’s most emblematic neighbourhoods, it proved once again that CUPRA continues to inspire the world from Barcelona. We also confirmed the arrival of the CUPRA Tavascan in 2024 and presented the UrbanRebel concept, the most radical interpretation of the urban electric car to date.
2021 was also the year of the definitive take-off of SEAT S.A.’s electrification. We developed our Future: Fast Forward plan, a project which we are entirely committed to. If the necessary conditions are met, and with the support of the public administrations, Future: Fast Forward would be a boost for the transformation of the Spanish automotive industry. Because we aim to democratise electric mobility, making it accessible and affordable for all.
All in all, 2021 was the year where we began a necessary transformation that looks to the future. And SEAT S.A. has a bright future ahead: we have two complementary brands that play a key role within the Volkswagen Group. The consolidation of CUPRA in the market is a reality; and SEAT has a solid and attractive range of products with a focus on hybridisation and high-efficient ICE.
We will continue to face each challenge with the will to come out stronger.
If there is something we’ve learnt over the past couple of years, it’s that the only certainty is that nothing is certain. As we move through 2022, we face new challenges, not only in our industry, but also on a global level. We are following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine with great concern and hope for a quick end to hostilities.
However, through our hard work and determination, we will continue to face each challenge with the will to come out stronger. I am confident we can do this and that nothing can hold back our #UNSTOPPABLEIMPULSE.