If VW did opt for an F1 programme, it was unlikely that the company would choose to run under the 'Volkswagen' brand name - meaning it could be as Audi, Bentley, SEAT or even Bugatti.
"There is a difference between the brand Volkswagen and the Volkswagen group," said Nissen. "The VW group has a lot of brands, ten now, with different images. If the group enters Formula 1, they would need to decide which brand, and I personally think that they would decide on another brand than Volkswagen.
"If it was to happen, it would be 'the VW group enters F1' with whatever brand. But I can promise you that there will be at least a couple more Dakars to come before this decision is taken."