
Volkswagen brand vehicle sales are sliding in the United States, casting doubt on the brand’s goal of selling 800,000 vehicles a year in the market by 2018.

The global boom in SUV sales is driving profits at UK-based supplier GKN Driveline, CEO Andrew Reynolds Smith said.

The Twin-Up has a hybrid powertrain under its hood. At the rear is a lithium ion battery pack and 33-liter fuel tank.

Toyota kept its lead over General Motors and Volkswagen this year, January-September global sales figures showed, as the Japanese carmaker closes in on a record annual profit.

VW introduced electric versions of the Golf compact (left) and Up minicar at the Frankfurt auto show last month.