Porsche sees no signs of downturn in auto industry, aims to sell 200,000 units annually by 2018

While many of us are holding onto our wallets, Porsche is enjoying customers that are willing to spend in this economy. According to CEO Matthian Mueller, Porsche has full order books and sees no signs of a downturn… at least in the automotive industry.

“This doesn’t look like cooling and decline,” Mueller said. He said that the worldwide automotive market would reach 100 million vehicles by 2020, up from an estaimted 62-63 million this year.

Porsche is aiming to increase sales to about 140,000 vehicles next year, up from an estimated 120,000 units in 2011. Sources say that boost in sales will come from the new Porsche 911 and the upcoming Boxster.

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By 2018, Porsche aims to sell 200,000 units on an annual basis and expand its lineup from the current four to seven.

Refresher: Power for the 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera comes from a new 3.4 liter boxer inline 6-cylinder making 350-hp. The 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera S is powered by a 3.8 liter boxer making 400-hp. Mated to a Porsche’s PDK 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, the 911 Carrera runs from 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds and 4.2 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono Package’s Launch Control function. The 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera S with a PDK goes from 0 to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds and 3.9 seconds with the Launch Control function of the optional Sport Chrono Package. Top speed for the 911 Carrera S and 911 Carrera comes in at 188 mph and 179 mph, respectively. Prices start $82,100 for the 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera and $96,400 for the 2012 911 Carrera S.

– By: Omar Rana

Source: Automotive News