From Nelson Mandela Bay to the world: Plant Kariega is the beating heart of Polo
Celebrating five decades of the iconic Polo and its various iterations, was shot in and around Nelson Mandela Bay – including, of course, Plant Kariega, the Home of Polo itself.
Image: Supplied
Volkswagen unveiled the exhilarating “50 Years of Polo: Project Drift” video, a stunning tribute to the iconic Polo that has captivated car enthusiasts for half a century.
Showcasing the rich legacy and the vibrant future of the beloved hatchback, the video is a visual feast that was shot in and around the picturesque Nelson Mandela Bay, with Plant Kariega—a site synonymous with Polo production—serving as a significant backdrop.
The video opens with breathtaking scenes of the Port of Gqeberha, seamlessly transitioning into a high-speed journey through the Volkswagen plant where the Polo is assembled. Over the years, the Polo has undergone numerous iterations and variations, and this tribute highlights several standout motorsport models, including the formidable Polo R WRC, the fan-favourite Polo R Supercar in an eye-catching Harlequin livery, the innovative electric Polo RX1e, and the crowd-pleasing Polo GTI, which holds the distinction of being exclusively built in South Africa.
Perhaps the most exciting feature of the video is the surprise unveiling of the ID. Polo. This nearly-production concept car represents the latest evolution of the Polo brand, with its official public debut scheduled for the IAA Mobility in Munich this week.
“In our communications regarding the Polo anniversary, we not only want to look back, but forward too and generate enthusiasm for the Volkswagen brand,” explains Jens Katemann, Head of Communications for the Volkswagen Brand and Brand Group Core.
“This video stands for everything that is quintessential of the Polo: a small car that can do great things and that is geared towards the future.”
The video features seven-time FIA World Rallycross Champion Johan Kristoffersson behind the wheel. Known for his precision driving and spectacular manoeuvres, Kristoffersson took full advantage of the powerful all-wheel-drive vehicles, effortlessly executing drifts in a variety of exhilarating settings.
“The shoot was a huge pleasure for me. It was a great experience to drive the sporty Polo models one after the other and push them to their limits. Their characters are different, but they all performed equally really well,” he shared, reflecting on his thrilling experience.
Plant Kariega has been the heart of Polo manufacturing since July 2024, entrusted with the vital role of exporting the vehicle to both Europe and the Asia-Pacific region.
Having begun Polo production in 1996, the plant has become synonymous with excellence in automotive craftsmanship. Andile Dlamini, Head of Group Communications at Volkswagen Group Africa, expressed pride at Plant Kariega’s role in this landmark project.
“It was an honour for Plant Kariega to be showcased in this globally-released video commemorating the history and future of the Polo,” he stated.
“We are proud to be such a big part of the Polo success story, and this video is a great source of excitement for the employees who build and sell these cars.”
Dlamini also extended gratitude towards Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) and the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA), acknowledging their crucial support that enabled the thrilling opening sequences of the video.
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