German carmaker Volkswagen is ready to revolutionise its vehicles by putting a range of plug-in hybrid models into production in 2013/14.
Speaking at the Vienna Motor Symposium, chairman of the Volkswagen Group Professor Dr Martin Winterkorn, commented that over the mid-term, the plug-in hybrid has great potential as it combines the best of both worlds in terms of unlimited internal combustion engine performance and attractive electric mobility ranges in everyday driving. He also noted there are no limitations to vehicle speed, climbing or towing capabilities.
In addition, Volkswagen took the opportunity to showcase two new engines: the 1.4litre TSI Motor E85 and the new 2.0litre TDI.
In a Volkswagen Passat, the new TSI with a seven-speed dual clutch transmission in E85 operation yields fuel consumption of 8.8litre/100km and 144g/km of CO2. This is a seven per cent reduction in CO2 emissions compared to an engine with super petrol fuel.
Meanwhile, the second generation 2.0litre TDI has been modified for the North American market and produces 320Nm while accelerating from 0-60mph in 9.3 seconds with a top speed of 113mph and fuel economy of 35mpg.
