(June 22, 2014) HERNDON, Va. — Volkswagen of America has announced the continuation of its partnership with PeopleForBikes for another two years. Since 2012, Volkswagen’s support has helped PeopleForBikes reach nearly five million riders at 165 bike and lifestyle events across the country, nearly double the number of protected bike lanes in the U.S., and engage more than 800,000 Americans in a movement for better biking.

“VW's exceptional support of PeopleForBikes is important to the future of bicycling,” said PeopleForBikes president Tim Blumenthal. “We greatly appreciate that Volkswagen consistently promotes the concept of transportation choices, and that they recognize the bicycle as an unmatched tool for many short trips.”

In May, Volkswagen sponsored the Ride on Chicago to benefit PeopleForBikes and support National Bike Month. The five-day ride from Kansas City, MO, to Chicago exceeded its fundraising goal of $100,000. In 2011, Volkswagen-sponsored cyclocross athlete, Tim Johnson, founded the annual ride that has now collectively raised hundreds of thousands of dollars and traveled more than 2,000 miles.

“Volkswagen is extremely devoted to environmental sustainability and encouraging healthy lifestyles,” said Vinay Shahani, vice president marketing, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “We’re excited to continue our partnership with PeopleForBikes and encourage our owners to get out and ride safely throughout the year.”

Volkswagen has supplied PeopleForBikes with four vehicles, including two Jetta SportWagens that travel to the various events at both ends of the country. Additionally, Volkswagen has recently begun offering cobranded cycling gear on its DriverGear website.