Volkswagen launches e-marketplace

NEWS Car manufacturer Volkswagen has launched an online car marketplace to rival the one set up earlier this year by rivals DaimlerChrysler, Ford and General Motors. The company confirmed it has signed a memorandum of understanding with technology partners IBM and security expert i2 Technologies, to create an online supply chain area to streamline trading of indirect goods between the company and its suppliers. In February, DaimlerChrysler, Ford and General Motors announced plans for a similar marketplace to be developed in association with Oracle and ebusiness specialist Commerce One. Jens Newman, the Volkswagen board member responsible for group strategy, legal matters, treasury and organisation, said the company hopes to create a European standard for supply-chain trading and added the marketplace will be open to everybody. Newman said the company's plans for the marketplace will preclude it from any involvement with its rival.