The controllers at Volkswagen and Porsche are pushing ahead with a radical realignment. Instead of relying solely on cars, the billionaire families are investing specifically in defense technologies and mobility. This step is intended to reduce dependence on a faltering automotive industry. (berliner-zeitung: 14.08.25).
Reorientation toward the defense industry
Porsche SE plans to invest up to two billion euros in start-ups in the security and defense industry. CEO Hans Dieter Pötsch explained that the core focus would remain on “mobility” and “industrial technology.” Nevertheless, the defense industry should specifically complement these fields. The focus is on satellite surveillance, cyber security, and drone technologies.
The families are thus taking advantage of the strategic moment. While the vehicle market is weakening, the shift to dual technologies is opening up new growth opportunities. Porsche SE also announced a “Defense Day” to attract investors from European family circles for joint investments.
Crisis in the automotive industry worsens
Volkswagen and Porsche are suffering from declining demand. China in particular is showing weak sales figures, while the costs of electromobility are weighing on the balance sheets. Porsche SE’s profit forecasts also had to be revised sharply downward. Write-downs in the billions are weighing on earnings.
The Berliner Zeitung emphasized that the families are expanding their portfolio “dynamically with further investments.” The owners consider focusing solely on cars to be too risky. This realignment is intended to lay the foundation for a more stable future.
New investments complement the portfolio
Funds were already invested in Flixbus, drone manufacturer Quantum Systems, and software for autonomous trucks in the spring. These steps reduce dependence on the traditional automotive business. The realignment also serves as protection against economic risks.
Rumors of a partial sale of Volkswagen common shares were rejected by the owners. Porsche SE stated that a sale was “not planned.” The long-term commitment to Volkswagen remains in place, while new fields are being developed at the same time.