Showing posts with label Volkswagen. Show all posts

Saturday, November 3, 2018

2019 Volkswagen Jetta R-Line essentials: Value and moxie

Admin November 03, 2018 0

What is it: The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta is now based off the company’s MQB architecture and only offers a 1.4-liter turbo four. A six-speed manual is still offered, but this one gets the new eight-speed automatic. The base Jetta S starts at $18,545, 200 bucks less than the outgoing car.

Key Competitors: Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra

Base Price: $23,845 As-Tested Price: $23,845

Full review: 2019 Volkswagen Jetta first drive

Highlights: The 2019 Jetta gets a new, more Audi-like face and adds a bunch of optional safety tech for the new year. LED lights are standard. Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, 10-color ambient lighting, panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated seats, and BeatsAudio are optional. The R-Line trim adds 17-inch wheels, a more aggressive rear bumper with dual exhaust, a gloss-black grille, black side mirror caps and R-Line badging.

Inside the 2019 Volkswagen Jetta R-Line

Our Opinion: Starting from the exterior, this gently redsigned Jetta looks great. For a few days in the parking lot I thought it was an Audi. Good on VW then. Everything looks tougher and more chiseled. In back the taillights look better and the exhausts are now integrated into the bumper.

This 1.4-liter turbo feels decent off the line. VW must have tuned it for power down low in the rev range (max torque is at 1,400), but it does fall a little flat when trying to pass on the expressway. Just remember to push the pedal into the floor. The eight-speed is fine, though I’d like to try the six-speed manual to wring every pony out of this thing.

The handling is on the better side of the pack with the right amount of weight in the steering wheel. There’s no feel, nothing has feel these days, but the amount of effort feels right for the car. Between the tires and suspension, most bumps, even big ones, are soaked up before reaching the cabin.

Speaking of, VW upgraded the seats for this model. They’re still “leatherette” but the shape and the padding feel better on my rear end. This one had the small infotainment screen, but everything worked fine. Oh and the air conditioning cranks, something I was pleased with considering it’s been 150 degrees in Michigan lately.

The Jetta falls midpack in sales for the compact segment. It should maybe be a little higher than that. I like leading Honda Civic better, the Mazda 3 and maybe the Hyundai Elantra.

--Jake Lingeman, road test editor

Jake Lingeman - Jake Lingeman is Road Test Editor at Autoweek, reviewing cars, reporting on car news, car tech and the world at large.

ON SALE: Now

BASE PRICE: $23,845

AS TESTED PRICE: $23,845

POWERTRAIN: 1.4-liter turbocharged I4, eight-speed automatic, FWD

OUTPUT: 147 hp @ 5.000 rpm, 184 lb-ft @ 1,400 rpm

FUEL ECONOMY: 30/40/34 mpg(EPA City/Hwy/Combined)

OPTIONS: None

PROS: If you squint, it looks like an Audi

CONS: Passing power is lacking

World premiere of the modular electric drive matrix – Volkswagen launches ELECTRIC FOR ALL campaign

Volkswagen

Admin September 17, 2018 0

World premiere of the modular electric drive matrix (MEB) in Dresden: newly developed technology platform will be the key to the “electric car for all”
Brand Board Member for E-Mobility Thomas Ulbrich: “The MEB is one of the most important projects in the history of Volkswagen – a technological milestone, similar to the transition from the Beetle to the Golf”
10 million electric vehicles across the Group based on the MEB
Brand plans to sell some 150,000 electric cars, including 100,000 ID. models made in Germany, by 2020

Dresden – Volkswagen is driving the transition to e-mobility with a consistency and commitment unlike that of virtually any other automaker. As part of the ELECTRIC FOR ALL campaign launched today, the brand will be putting attractive models at affordable prices on the road, paving the way for the breakthrough of electric vehicles. The electric offensive is based on the modular electric drive matrix (MEB), a technology platform developed specifically for electric vehicles.

Production of the Volkswagen ID., the world’s first series vehicle based on the MEB, will begin in Zwickau at the end of 2019.

At the launch of the ELECTRIC FOR ALL campaign, media representatives from all over the world are being given their first deep insight into the technological basis of the ID. at a media workshop in the Gläserne Manufaktur in Dresden, where Volkswagen is demonstrating the centrepiece of the MEB – the rolling chassis without the bodywork and interior – exactly as it will be used in series models. Volkswagen is also seizing the initiative when it comes to charging infrastructure: a design prototype of the “Volks-Wallbox” is also being premiered in Dresden. This Wallbox is an affordable home system that makes charging the ID. family easy and convenient.

ELECTRIC FOR ALL stands for the Volkswagen brand’s vision and central promise: to make innovative technologies accessible to as many customers as possible. The MEB is the key to the “electric car for all”: it enables a hitherto unachievable price-service ratio and will be instrumental in transforming the electric vehicle from a niche product into a bestseller. Brand Board Member for E-Mobility Thomas Ulbrich commented: “We will make electric vehicles popular and get as many people as possible excited about electric cars. The MEB is one of the most important projects in the history of Volkswagen – a technological milestone, similar to the transition from the Beetle to the Golf.”

MEB: the technological platform for the electric age

The systematic platform strategy is one of Volkswagen’s unique selling propositions. It testifies to the power the brand and the Group are investing in e-mobility. Thomas Ulbrich said: “We are making optimal use of the possibilities the electric car has to offer and creating massive economies of scale at the same time. Some 10 million vehicles across the Group will be based on this platform in the first wave alone. The MEB is the economic and technological backbone of the electric car for all.”

As Christian Senger, Head of the E-mobility Product Line, explained, the MEB platform brings significant benefits for customers: “The ID. will be a milestone in technological development. It will be the first fully connected electric car with full everyday utility that millions of people will be able to afford.” The MEB will make it possible to install larger batteries, for example. That alone significantly enhances the range. “The car holds the road really well thanks to the flat battery situated in the floorpan and the space inside is much more generous – we are making substantial headway with the sense of spaciousness.”

Furthermore, the MEB bundles Volkswagen’s entire production knowledge: it is not a platform for vehicles with combustion engines that has been retroactively modified, but has from the outset been designed to be

100 percent, uncompromisingly electric. As Ulbrich put it: “Our Modular Transverse Toolkit already proved Volkswagen is one of the most successful platform developers in the auto industry. Now, we’re transferring this know-how and this strategy to the electric age. By the end of 2022, four Group brands will be ramping up 27 MEB models worldwide, ranging from compact cars to the lifestyle Bulli. That is something quite unique.”

All members of the ID. family are designed for fast charging. Using fast charging systems, the battery can be charged 80 percent in about 30 minutes thanks to a completely new, significantly more powerful battery system developed by Volkswagen Group Components. Senger explained: “The use of a new generation of high-performance batteries begins with the ID. models. Thanks to their modular design and the multi-cell format, these batteries can be installed in smaller or larger ID. models.”

ID. family: e-mobility made in Germany

In every respect, the Volkswagen ID. will be an electric car made in Germany. Most of the Volkswagen locations in Germany are involved in the development and production of the first MEB-based electric cars, including the Volkswagen Group Components sites in Braunschweig, Salzgitter and Kassel. The company is investing €1.3 billion of a total €6 billion budgeted for e-mobility at these three sites.

Wolfsburg

The ID. was conceived and developed by the E-mobility Product Line and Research and Development units at the main plant in Wolfsburg. This is also where the pre-series model is currently being built in the pilot hall and will subsequently be put through its paces at the Ehra-Lessien proving grounds.

Zwickau and Dresden

Volkswagen will be building the series production models of the ID. family in Saxony. €1.2 billion is being invested in Zwickau to become the first pure-play MEB plant and the largest competence centre for e-mobility in Europe. The Gläserne Manufaktur began building the Volkswagen e-Golf1 back in April 2017. The plant is evolving into a “Centre of Future Mobility”. Customers and visitors can enjoy an interactive encounter with e-mobility and digitalization to discover more about the future of mobility.

Braunschweig

The Braunschweig plant will manufacture the battery system, the heart of the ID.. This factory with a long history already builds the batteries for the e-up!2, the e-Golf and the Passat GTE3 plug-in hybrid. Braunschweig is today the battery and packaging specialist and has extensive know-how in power electronics, battery cooling systems and software management. The plant is currently being expanded to facilitate capacity to build up to half a million battery systems per year in future.

Salzgitter

The plant starts pre-series production of rotors and stators for the MEB this year. The Battery Cell Centre of Excellence (CoE) is amassing development and manufacturing competence in battery cells and battery module production. This currently includes a lab line to be followed by pilot production with a view to building up production know-how.

Kassel

The Kassel plant has been the competence centre for electric drives for many years. Production of the entirely new MEB drive developed by Group Components for the Volkswagen brand begins at the end of this year. The site is the lead plant for high-quality, cost-efficient electric motors.

More information on ELECTRIC FOR ALL will be available at our newsroom from 11 a.m.: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com

1) e-Golf - Electrical consumption in kWh/100 km: combined 12.7, CO2 emissions combined in g/km: 0, efficiency class: A+.

2) e-up! - electrical consumption in kWh/100km: 11.7 combined; CO2 emissions in g/km: 0 combined, efficiency class: A+.

3) Passat GTE - fuel consumption in l/100 km: combined 1.8 - 1.7; power consumption in kWh/100 km: combined 13.7 - 13.2; CO2 emissions combined in g/km: 40 - 38; efficiency class: A+.

About the Volkswagen brand: “We make the future real”

The Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand is present in more than 150 markets throughout the world and produces vehicles at over 50 locations in 14 countries. In 2017, Volkswagen delivered 6.23 million vehicles, including bestselling models such as the Golf, Tiguan, Jetta or Passat. Currently, 198,000 people work for Volkswagen across the globe. The brand also has over 7,700 dealerships with 74,000 employees.

Volkswagen is forging ahead consistently with the further development of automobile production

E-mobility, smart mobility and the digital transformation of the brand are the key strategic topics for the future.

Volkswagen announces Beetle Final Edition for 2019

Volkswagen America

Admin September 14, 2018 0

Special models celebrate Beetle’s rich heritage as third-generation is set to end production in 2019

Herndon, VA (September 13, 2018) — Volkswagen of America, Inc. announced today that it will end production of the iconic Beetle in 2019. To celebrate the Beetle’s rich heritage, two special models will join the lineup for its last model year—Final Edition SE and Final Edition SEL.

“The loss of the Beetle after three generations, over nearly seven decades, will evoke a host of emotions from the Beetle’s many devoted fans,” said Hinrich J. Woebcken, President and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. “As we move to being a full-line, family-focused automaker in the U.S. and ramp up our electrification strategy with the MEB platform, there are no immediate plans to replace it. But as we have seen with the I.D. BUZZ—which is the modern and practical interpretation of the legendary Bus—I would also say, ‘Never say never.’ We’re excited to kick off a year of celebrating one of the true icons of the automotive world, with a series of events that will culminate in the end of production in Puebla in July 2019.”

Available in coupe and convertible body styles, the Final Edition models include exclusive equipment and unique upscale décor elements designed to send the Beetle off in style. Models also draw inspiration from the first-generation Beetle’s final run in Mexico, where the vehicle is assembled.

The 2003 Última Edición (last edition) models were only available in two colors—beige and light blue. Today’s Final Edition models will feature two unique colors: Safari Uni—a reinvention of Harvest Moon Beige, a color from the New Beetle—and Stonewashed Blue, a nod to the 1970 Jeans Bug and most recently seen on the 2016 Beetle Denim. Final Edition models are also available in Pure White, Deep Black Pearl, and Platinum Grey. Convertible Final Edition SEL models in every exterior color except Safari Uni are available with a unique Brown soft top.

Final Edition coupe models feature standard chrome treatments like the Última Edición models, in addition to body-color side mirrors, heated washer nozzles (all standard features across the Beetle Convertible lineup), as well as a sunroof. Final Edition SEL models are equipped with Bi-Xenon® headlights with LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), LED taillights, and fog lights. All Final Edition models replace the typical “Turbo” badge on the tailgate with a “Beetle” badge.

Unique wheels complete the exterior transformation of Beetle Final Edition models. Final Edition SE models feature 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with a 15-spoke design. Final Edition SEL models are shod with 18-inch white aluminum-alloy wheels in a disc design that is reminiscent of the Última Edición’s body-colored steel wheels fitted with chrome hubcaps and whitewall tires.

Inside, all Final Edition models are equipped with standard KESSY® keyless access with push-button start, a leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel with unique “Beetle” clip, stainless steel pedal caps, Climatronic® automatic climate control, gloss black center console, a unique Safari Uni color dashpad with the classic kaeferfach glovebox or “Beetle bin” that harkens to the color-matched interior treatments in the Última Edición, and three-color ambient lighting. Final Edition SE models feature cloth and leatherette rhombus-pattern seats, while SEL models offer standard diamond-stitched leather seating surfaces.

Final Edition SE models feature a Composition Media infotainment unit with a 6.3-inch capacitive touchscreen display, Bluetooth® technology for compatible devices, USB multimedia port, SiriusXM® radio (three-month trial subscription), Voice Control, and Volkswagen Car-Net® App-Connect smartphone integration. Final Edition SEL models upgrade to Discover Media infotainment with navigation, Car-Net Security & Service, and Guide & Inform, as well as Fender® Premium Audio.

All 2019 Beetle models, both convertible and coupe, are powered a 2.0 liter TSI® engine that puts out 174 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. All models are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and the EPA-estimated fuel economy rating is 26 mpg city, 33 mpg highway and 29 mpg combined.

To meet the demands of American drivers, all Beetle Final Edition models offer driver-assistance technology. SE models include standard Blind Spot Monitor Rear Traffic Alert. Final Edition SEL models add standard front and rear Park Distance Control.

Pricing for the 2019 Beetle Final Edition coupe starts at $23,045 for SE models and $25,995 for SEL models. Beetle Convertible Final Edition pricing starts at $27,295 for SE models and $29,995 for SEL models. The destination charge for all Beetle models is an additional $895.

The new T-Cross – "I am cool": Volkswagen designers survey the world of compact SUVs

Volkswagen

Admin August 31, 2018 0

The countdown for the launch of the new T-Cross has started: The world première of the most compact Volkswagen SUV ever will be celebrated in autumn. The slogan "I am more" will accompany the launch in spring 2019.
It stands for the four property fields "I am practical", "I am cool", "I am intuitive" and "I am safe". With a trailer for "I am cool", Volkswagen is now showing how the T-Cross designers have surveyed the world again and developed a new, urban generation of the Sport Utility Vehicle.

Exterior example: the T-Cross has a deliberately charismatic and masculine design. The front end, with its bonnet and headlights integrated outside the wide radiator grille, is a dominant design feature. At the side, a sharply cut character line divides the areas. It forms a powerful shoulder section and merges into a new design element at the rear: the reflector strip running across and bordered by black trim.

Colour and trim example: two-colour dash pads link the fresh, sporty style of the interior and the twelve colours of the exterior. The new T-Cross will also be available in different bi-colour paintwork versions as an option when it is launched next year.

Interior example: at an early stage of development, the designers immersed themselves in the spacious interior – virtually using augmented reality. They tested the ergonomics as well as the ambience and experienced the T-Cross of tomorrow live today in order to perfect it further. At the same time, they got a feeling for what it will be like for the first customers when their songs from the smartphone media library or streaming services resound through the interior of the new SUV via the "beats" sound system.

SAIC Volkswagen reveal Tharu's Chinese name at Chengdu Auto Show 2018

Volkswagen Group China

Admin August 31, 2018 0

The new SUV Tharu Chinese name "Tueyue" will be listed in November

In terms of SUV products, the Volkswagen brand unveiled the highly anticipated Chinese name of the new SUV Tharu, “Tueyue” at the Chengdu Motor Show. “Tueyue” means that the journey is like climbing the mountain, demonstrating the brand spirit of “powerful, confident control”. Due to the Chinese name of Tiguan and Tuon, Tuyue will add strength to the popular brand SUV family and provide consumers with more diversified choices.

Since its appearance in Beijing in March this year, Tharu Tuyue has received extensive attention from the media and consumers and won the reputation of “Little Way”. With a tough, courageous, powerful design and comprehensive product strength, Tharu Tuyue will be loved by new generation consumers. It is reported that Tharu Tuyue will become the successor model of the Tiguan Silk Road in the future and is expected to be launched in November this year.

Tiguan OFFROAD edition launched at Moscow International Auto Show 2018

Volkswagen

Admin August 31, 2018 0

Within the framework of the Moscow International Motor Show, the Volkswagen brand represents the best-selling Tiguan in the new OFFROAD version. From October 1, 2018, the model will be available for order in all official dealer centers. Prices for Tiguan OFFROAD will be announced later.

The new Tiguan OFFROAD is offered with a petrol engine of 150 hp. Coupled with a 6-speed manual gearbox or a 6-speed automatic transmission, as well as a gasoline engine of 180 hp. or diesel engine capacity of 150 hp. in combination with a 7-speed automatic transmission. All these versions are equipped with a 4Motion all-wheel drive.

Volkswagen Tiguan in the new version is equipped with off-road bumpers, in particular, the front bumper with an increased angle of entry - 26 degrees, R-Line spoiler, black painted side mirrors, 17-inch Tulsa alloy wheels and adaptive LED headlights (optional), rear LED lanterns with 3-D design.

For the model is available several body colors - white metallic White Silver, white Pure White, black mother of pearl Deep Black and silver metallic Tungsten Silver. The roof of Tiguan OFFROAD can be painted black.

The interior of Tiguan OFFROAD is distinguished by: a special wear-resistant finish, combined from fabric and artificial materials, rubber mats with the logo OFFROAD, light-alloy pedal pads and door sills with the inscription OFFROAD.

Functional equipment Tiguan OFFROAD includes the digital instrument panel Active Info Display, the interface App-Connect (Apple Carplay, Android Auto, Mirrorlink), Composition Media audio system with 8-inch color display, rear-view camera, front and rear parktronics, as well as electric drive tailgate and folding mirrors.

For the Tiguan in a special version, the Innovation package is available, which includes the adaptive cruise control ACC Stop & Go with a distance assist in the plug, adaptive LED lights, KESSY keyless access and start-up system with Safelock locks and the Park Assist semi-automatic parking system. As an option, also available are 18-inch black Sebring alloy wheels and a black roof.

Volkswagen Tiguan is produced on the modular platform MQB of the Volkswagen Group Rus plant in Kaluga. Sales of the second generation of the crossover are steadily growing: since the beginning of 2018, 17,815 Tiguan have been transferred to Russian customers.

Volkswagen R GmbH releases up! R-Line package!

Volkswagen R GmbH

Admin August 30, 2018 0

The up!¹ R-Line. Sporty design right down to the finest details.

The up! impresses with its unmistakeable and fresh design – right down to the finest details. The optional R-Line exterior package for the move up! and high up! offers a striking sporty element. The sporty design of the front bumper leaves a lasting impression, underscored by the R-Line logo on the side panels to the right and left. The R-Line exterior package for the move up! includes front fog lights, which already come fitted as standard in the high up!

Roof and wing mirrors featuring black paintwork add dynamic accents. The athletic and powerful appearance of your up! is further reinforced by the rear side windows and rear window, which absorb up to 65% of light. Thanks to the striking sills in the vehicle colour, the silver trim framing the radiator grille, the black 16-inch Triangle rims and the optional 17-inch Polygon rims, all eyes will be on you. On the roads, in town – everywhere.

Source: https://volkswagen-r.de/en/r-line/up
/

Ambev Brewery will have more than 1/3 of its third-party fleet composed by electric trucks by 2023

Volkswagen Truck and Bus

Admin August 21, 2018 0

• Partnership with Volkswagen Caminhões e Ônibus involves 1,600 clean energy-powered vehicles; this is the biggest announcement of this kind ever made in the world

Ambev, owner of brands such as Skol, Brahma, Antarctica and Guaraná, announced that by 2023, it will use 1,600 electric trucks made by Volkswagen Caminhões e Ônibus to transport beverages. With the partnership, about 35% of the fleet serving the brewery will consist of clean energy-powered vehicles, no longer emitting over 30.4K tons of carbon in its logistic chain per year. The deal is the VWCO’s largest for the cargo segment this year.

The first truck to be part of this fleet will be the VW e-Delivery, which will hit the streets later this year, opening the first test phase to determine the most appropriate technology for Ambev’s operations. The model will be 100% recharged with electric power from clean sources, like wind and solar.

The partnership is a landmark in the history of both companies: it is the biggest announcement of this kind ever made in the world. The teamwork represents an important step towards a less fossil fuel-dependent future, and aims at reducing even more greenhouse gases emissions by the fleet that attends Ambev Brewery. Between 2014 and 2017, the company has already reduced its index by 33.9%.

“Our dream is to bring people together for a better world. For that reason, we are always searching for partners who are engaged with the same causes to offer new technologies and processes that have a positive impact in the environment, like Volkswagen Caminhões e Ônibus. We are sure that this project will greatly contribute to the construction of the sustainable legacy we want to leave for future generations”, says Guilherme Gaia, Director of Logistics and Supply of Ambev.

This is the first 100% electric light truck in Latin America with zero CO2 emission. The solution aligns with the VW Truck & Bus policy of development and promotion of clean technologies, as Volkswagen Caminhões e Ônibus is part of this group.

“Volkswagen Caminhões e Ônibus’ global development center, headquartered in Brazil, investigated and applied the best solutions available in the world and locally to satisfy our customers' needs in low emission vehicles for emerging countries. Thanks to our 20-year long partnership with Ambev, we have been the first to develop commercial vehicles for beverage distribution. And now, once more, we sprint off together to enter the electric era", stresses Roberto Cortes, CEO of VW Caminhões e Ônibus, manufacturer of Volkswagen Caminhões e Ônibus and MAN brands.

Developed in Brazil, the vehicles bring state-of-art solutions for green logistics, like smart systems to adjust the battery demand according to the operation and recover power from braking. The trucks may reach up to 200 kilometers of autonomy depending on the vehicle's application and settings. The noise level is extremely low when compared to traditional models, enhancing the comfort of the driver and his/her helpers during operation.

Social-environmental sustainability is a central pillar of Ambev’s businesses. Over the last five years, the company invested over R$ 1 billion in projects turned to this purpose on its operations. The amount contributed to overcome six of the seven goals announced in 2013 to be reached in 2017. Now, the brewery has announced another major step in in this work, with new commitments, which are expected to be met by 2025. The goals, defined globally by AB InBev, are divided into four cores, one of which specifically refers to reducing carbon emissions in its operations and buying power from renewable sources:

Climate Actions: 100% of the power bought by Ambev must come from renewable sources. Also, the company will reduce by 25% the carbon emissions along its value chain.

Recyclable Packaging: 100% of Ambev’s products must be supplied in packaging that is returnable or mainly made of recycled content.

Water Management: expressively improve the availability and quality of the water for 100% of the communities in highly water-stressed areas with which the brewery has a relationship.

Smart Agriculture: 100% of the brewery’s agricultural partners must be trained, connected and financially structured to develop a more and more sustainable cultivation.

About Ambev Brewery

Bringing people together to make a better world. This is what Ambev, a Brazilian company headquartered in São Paulo and represented in 18 countries, dreams of. In Brazil, we are over 32 thousand people who share the same passion for making beer and work together to guarantee celebration and fun moments.

Ambev is an innovative brewery and we have customers at the very center of our decisions and initiatives. Our portfolio includes beers, soft drinks, teas, isotonic drinks, energy drinks and juices with famous brands like Skol, Brahma, Antarctica, Stella Artois, Wäls, Colorado, Guaraná Antarctica, Fusion, do bem and AMA, the mineral water that reverts 100% of its profits for projects that bring access to drinking water to families of the Brazilian semi-arid region.

In the last five years alone, we invested R$ 17.5 billion in the country and left a legacy that goes beyond these investments with our broad sustainability platform. This commitment includes clear goals, which are disclosed to the public, and translate into four pillars: smart consumption, water, zero residue and development. This work is made with a partner network, because we believe that building a new world becomes richer when we do it together.

About VW Caminhões e Ônibus

Manufacturer of the commercial vehicles Volkswagen and MAN, VW Caminhões e Ônibus is one of the biggest truck and bus makers in Latin America. The innovative VW Caminhões e Ônibus will produce the VW e-Delivery along with its partners in the Modular Consortium, at the plant in Resende, Brazil.

Since 1981, when it started it operations, the automaker’s focus has always been reaching the top of the market respecting and satisfying its customers' needs. And that is exactly what it offers its clients: custommade products and an excellent post-sales service.

Its production has already surpassed the milestone of 800 thousand vehicles, with over 100 thousand units exported to more than 30 countries. The company is also a reference in technological innovations. Since 2003, the automaker has been carrying out studies with renewable and alternative fuels, even before they became legal requirements.

VW Caminhões e Ônibus is a pioneer in using biodiesel and developing a truck with diesel-hydraulic hybrid system in Brazil. The company always seeks solutions to reduce environmental impact and help preserving the environment.

For over 35 years, the automaker has been living up to its commitment of developing vehicles that exceed customers’ demands – wherever they drive, be it Brazilian, Latin American or African roads.

SAIC Volkswagen Passat 430 PHEV Leaked! - Hybrid Passat for North America?

Volkswagen America

Admin August 17, 2018 0

SAIC Volkswagen Passat 430 PHEV Leaked! - Hybrid Passat for North America?

Another day and another leak from the Chinese Ministry of Information and IT!

With SAIC Volkswagen's all new Passat in PHEV guise - will it launch in North America?

The Passat will be powered by a 1.4T EA211 150hp / 110kW engine mated with a electric motor. According to Autohome China the fuel consumption will be as low as 1.4L per 100km. No power figures confirmed at time of publication. This PHEV powertrain will also be launched later in the year with SAIC Volkswagen's all new Tiguan L PHEV family.

Visually the Passat 430 PHEV is distinguished by Volkswagen's LED C-lighting for electric / hybrid vehicles (Phideon PHEV, Tiguan L PHEV, Passat GTE, e-Golf & e-up). Which starts at the fog light housing and continues with a chrome like trim running along the front bumper. The side & rear views are not that much different from the standard Passat - apart from the PHEV nameplates of course!

More on the Passat 430 PHEV as it comes to hand!

More on the 2nd generation NMS Passat https://vwnewsblog.blogspot.com/2018/06/all-new-mqb-volkswagen-passat-for-china.html

Source

https://www.autohome.com.cn/news/201808/921108.html#pvareaid=102624

The new T-Cross – “I am practical”: Small SUV stands out with high level of variability

Volkswagen

Admin August 14, 2018 0

Wolfsburg (D) – It is Volkswagen’s smallest SUV and yet it has what it takes to become a great one: the new T-Cross1. It is still under wraps, but the development to series production is running at full speed. The world première will take place this autumn and the launch will follow in spring 2019. Until then, Volkswagen will give more and more details about the new small but great SUV. Just like now with the clip in which professional players from the “Grizzlys Wolfsburg” ice hockey team throw all their equipment into the T-Cross which easily fits the equipment plus players.

“I am more” – this is the slogan for the introduction of the T-Cross. This slogan reflects the philosophy behind the SUV: to offer more than others. But without costing more. The slogan is clustered in four characteristic areas of the T-Cross: “I am practical” – more space and variability; “I am cool” – masculine design and maximum individuality; “I am intuitive“ – digital and connected; “I am safe” – one of the safest cars in its class. Naturally the professionals of “Grizzlys Wolfsburg” address the topic "I am practical". Because they need space. A lot of space. And the new T-Cross provides this.

The modular transverse matrix, or MQB for short, is one of the reasons for this. This is the technical basis of the T-Cross. The front axle moves far to the front, thereby lengthening the wheelbase, creating more space in the interior and increasing the available stowage space. The latter is also variable: Depending on the situation, the rear seat bench can be adjusted lengthwise as standard. For more legroom or - as in the case of “Grizzlys Wolfsburg” - for more space in the luggage compartment (385 to 455 litres). The maximum cargo volume represents the leading value in the segment. The back of the rear seat can also be divided (60:40) or completely folded down. This creates a flat loading area and thus even more space (1,281 litres) for the ice hockey equipment or bikes and boards. The fold-down front passenger seat backrest offers additional flexibility.

The high seating position in the T-Cross is typical for an SUV: 597 mm at the front and 652 mm at the three seats at the rear; the elevated view from the T-Cross is realised via higher ground clearance and the seat system. Big guys like the two professionals from “Grizzly Wolfsburg” in the clip for the T-Cross also appreciate the sitting position: the American Jeff Likens (32) and the German Armin Wurm (29). Jeff was already world champion with the U20 team of the USA; since 2015 he is the deputy captain of the Wolfsburg team. Armin is one of the best defensive specialists in the country; he defends the “Grizzlys Wolfsburg” goal. The professional from Lower Saxony not only plays for the first division team from the German motor city, but also for the German national ice hockey team. One thing is certain: Jeff and Armin are very impressed with the versatility of the cargo hold concept in the T-Cross. It is not unlikely that the new Volkswagen will increasingly appear in front of the “Wolfsburg Ice Arena” from next spring - no longer under wraps, of course.

Redefining Mid-Price Luxury: The 2018 Volkswagen Passat V6 SEL Premium

Volkswagen

Admin August 13, 2018 0

The 2018 Volkswagen Passat V6 SEL Premium.

Around 1980, Los Angeles Magazine did a comparison chart of old money versus new money, where people would live, what kind of watch they would own, what car they would drive, etc. "New Money" was a red Mercedes-Benz 450 SL. "Old Money" was a midnight blue four-door Honda Accord.

I was reminded of that chart during my week in the 2018 Volkswagen Passat V6 SEL Premium, because, to me, it's the perfect blend of the virtues of a 1980 Benz (though not the SL) and the early Honda Accords.

2018 Volkswagen Passat V6 SEL Premium.

The Passat V6 SEL Premium is luxurious without being ostentatious...luxurious in the old Benz sense of everything is well-made, of good materials, comfortable and logical in terms of layout. Best of all, like the Accords of today and yesterday, it's a one-price deal. Choose the trim level you want and there are no extras.

$34,650 buys you the Passat V6 SEL Premium Add another $850 for destination charge and the price out the door is $35,500. For that money, you get a 3.6-liter, 24-valve V6 making 280 horsepower, mated to a six-speed DSG automatic transmission with Tiptronic and sport mode. The EPA says it's good for 19 city/28 highway. We hovered right around 25 mpg in a mix of city street and urban freeway driving.

Also standard: 18-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires, automatic LED headlights, LED daytime running lights, LED taillights, halogen front fog lights with low-speed cornering lights, heated, foldable, power-adjustable side mirrors with position memory, rain-sensing variable-speed intermittent wipers, a power tilting and sliding moonroof, rear camera system, parking steering assist and park distance control, forward collision warning and autonomous emergency braking, blind spot monitor and rear traffic alert, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, remote engine start, keyless access, pushbutton start, and a hands-free easy open trunk lid release.

2018 Volkswagen Passat V6 SEL Premium interior.

Inside, there's VW's Car-Net, which brings smartphone integration, including Apple CarPlay, navigation, security and service and infotainment, as well as dual-zone climate control, a leather-wrapped, three-spoke multi-function steering wheel with shift paddles, heated, six-way power front seats with power lumbar support, heated 60/40 split-folding rear seat with armrest, storage and trunk pass-through, leather seating surfaces, ambient interior lighting and footwell lights and a self-dimming interior rearview mirror.

Flashy? No. Well-equipped? Yes. Luxurious in the classic sense? Yes. And at a price that's slightly below the average new car price in the United States in 2018...two or three-thousand dollars less than a comparably-equipped Honda Accord or Toyota Camry. If Los Angeles Magazine were doing its chart today (now, of course, it would be a clickbait online slideshow), the 2018 Volkswagen Passat V6 SEL Premium would be the obvious "old money" choice.

Volkswagen reveals first details on all new Grand California

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles

Admin August 07, 2018 0

Grand California: Beginning of a new dimension

Premiere at the Caravan-Salon
Campervan based on the Crafter
New model in six-metre class with bathroom and sleeping area in the rear

Hannover, 7 August 2018 – Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is giving a world premiere at the Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf (24 August to 2 September) to the Grand California. The completely new motorhome is based on the ultra-modern Crafter. With the Grand California Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is extending its range of campervans by adding a model in the six-metre class, complete with bathroom. In addition to the large sleeping area in the rear, the Grand California will be available with a high bunk bed for children. The launch of the new campervan will be in early 2019.

First unveiled in 1988, the Bulli-based California is the world's most successful campervan, with sales of over 160,000. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has utilised the experience gained from this iconic camper to create the new Grand California on the Crafter's technical platform. Both California product lines will from now on be offered in parallel.

With its fresh clarity and cleverly thought-out details, the interior reflects the qualities that made the California a best seller. The cabinet trim in the Grand California is generally in white. This colour scheme creates a bright, spacious atmosphere, as do the pop-open camper windows both at the back and on the sides and the large skylights above the double bed in the rear and the living area. All camper windows are fitted with cassette blinds and flyscreens. For the driver's cab there is a new blackout concept.

Further standard features include, in addition to the kitchen and spacious bathroom (840 x 800 mm), details such as external lighting above the sliding door. Fitted (as standard) with a connection at the back for an external shower (with adjustable water temperature) makes life on the campsite just perfect. An electrically powered step, which moves out in front of the sliding door, makes getting in and out easier, while a two-part mosquito net in the door is likewise part of the standard specification. One innovative feature is the option to control the loudspeakers in the living area via Bluetooth. This makes it possible to listen to music independently of the infotainment system using a smartphone, tablet or laptop.

The Grand California is fitted with swivel seats at the front and a double bench seat in the living area. Families with small children will appreciate the ISOFIX anchor points complete with top tether in the rear bench seat. A large dining table provides ample room for four people to sit down to eat together. The kitchen fittings include a pull-out 70-litre fridge with freezer compartment (accessible from outside as well as via the sliding door), a twin-hob gas cooker, a sink and diverse drawers, pull-out storage compartments and tip-up shelves.

A key feature of the Grand California that differentiates it from the California 'T6' is its bathroom. In addition to toilet and shower its fittings include a fold-out wash basin, shelves with holders for toiletries, a cupboard with integrated toilet paper holder (protects it from getting damp), towel holders and a skylight for ventilation. The Grand California can carry 110 litres of water. There are no light switches to be found in the bathroom – the lights come on automatically via motion detectors – as standard.

Optionally available is a high bunk bed for kids complete with integrated panoramic skylight above it. Also available are details such as an additional roof-mounted air-conditioning unit at the back, an awning, a rear bicycle rack and a camping table and chairs (which can be stowed in the wing doors). The standard gas heating can optionally also be expanded as a heating system run on gas- or diesel-generated electric power. There will also be a solar panel system mounted on the roof, a satellite dish (for TV reception) and an LTE/WiFi hotspot (router).

In addition, the Grand California will be available with the Crafter's driver assistance and infotainment systems. The driver assistance systems include the Front Assist surroundings monitoring system with City Emergency Braking function, Lane Assist to help the driver stay in lane, Blind Spot Monitor for changing lane, Rear Traffic Alert for reversing out of parking spaces and Park Assist for steering into them, the sensor-controlled side protection system, Adaptive Cruise Control and the Rear View reversing camera.
Campervans like the Grand California travel all over the world. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will therefore also be offering the new model with all-wheel drive (4MOTION). The newly developed camper high roof has been aerodynamically shaped in order to avoid any negative effects on fuel consumption.

The two-colour paintwork concept is adapted from the California 'T6'. The single colour paintwork options are Candy White, Reflex Silver or Indium Grey. Available as two-colour paintwork are combinations of Reflex Silver and Indium Gray, Candy White and Cherry Red, Candy White and Deep Ocean Blue or Candy White and Mojave Beige Metallic.

In the course of the Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will announce further details about the Grand California, the launch dates and initial prices.