More than 600 Volkswagen dealerships have joined together in the U.S. to create a Dealer Response Team that can be utilized to complete tasks aimed at improving communities nationwide. The network consists of over 7,000 vehicles that are typically used as part of a loaner fleet.

“Since this pandemic began, our dealers have been quick to react to support those in need within their local communities,” said Saad Chehab, Volkswagen Senior Vice President of Marketing. “Some dealers already decided to “drive bigger” and start their own pickup and delivery service programs. Today, we are announcing our brand’s financial contribution to those efforts across the entire dealer network and giving them the support to do even more. So if you happen to see a Volkswagen Atlas driving by marked with “Community Driven” on its side, know it’s driving for a great cause.”

Volkswagen will offer a daily stipend per vehicle to dealerships to cover fuel and lease costs, allowing dealers to service their communities at virtually no cost to their business.

Each team consists of a dealership employee as a driver and a vehicle. The team can be called upon for tasks such as delivering food to a local food bank, transporting masks and gowns to an area of critical need, or dropping off necessary items to someone unable to leave their home – all at no cost to the group or person making the request. Only dealership employees will be permitted to drive the vehicles.

All transport requests are subject to dealership approval and availability.

Those looking to enlist the services of the Community-Driven Atlas initiative should contact their local dealer to inquire about availability and assistance.