The original turns 50 – Volkswagen celebrates five decades of GTI in 2026

It is the world’s most successful compact sports car: the Golf GTI. The original in its class. More than 2.5 million units have been produced to date. In 2026, the Golf GTI will turn 50 – and this will be celebrated with a variety of national and international classic events, the exclusive anniversary model Golf GTI EDITION 50, and the world premiere of the first all-electric GTI. A success story since 1976. When the Golf GTI was launched in 1976, no one could have guessed that the 81 kW (110 PS) Volkswagen, with its red grille surround, black wheel arch extensions and golf ball gear knob, would soon become the world’s most successful compact sports car. Only 5,000 units were planned, but in the first year alone dealers sold 10 times as many vehicles. In total, 461,690 first-generation Golf GTI cars were built. It was the unusual overall package that struck a chord: a highly precise sports car for lonely Alpine passes and, at the same time, a practical companion for every day of the year, extremely economical and instantly a timeless style icon. The price was also a hit: 13,850 Deutschmarks in Germany. The media spoke of the democratisation of the sports car. And indeed, the performance of the 182 km/h Volkswagen was impressive: with a sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 9.0 seconds, the 1976 Golf GTI left behind numerous sports cars and coupés that were easily 10,000 Deutschmarks more expensive. The DNA for the past 50 years – and for tomorrow. The unique interplay of agile engine, lightweight front-wheel drive, balanced chassis, perfectly fitting sports seats and crisp, no-frills design still characterises the Golf GTI today. It is this synthesis that Volkswagen has continuously refined over 50 years – making the Golf GTI an authentic sports car and the original in its class. The fact is: today, when people say GTI, they mean Volkswagen. The crowning glory of this world-famous product brand in the anniversary year 2026 is the Golf GTI EDITION 50 – the most powerful production Golf GTI to date, with 239 kW (325 PS). The anniversary model is already available to order in some European markets, with the first units to be delivered in 2026. Volkswagen has also proven that the GTI philosophy is successful in other model series, especially with the Polo GTI. In 2026, a new Polo GTI will take off: the ID. Polo GTI. With 166 kW (226 PS), it will transfer the GTI philosophy into the electric drive era for the first time – there could not have been a better debut year for the first electric GTI. Classic GTI in Paris and Bremen. The first five decades of the GTI will be the focus of various major classic events in 2026. The celebrations kick off from 28 January to 1 February in Paris at Rétromobile. The classic car show at the Porte de Versailles will celebrate its 50th birthday in 2026, just like the Golf GTI. Almost simultaneously, the first German show for classic vehicles begins in the Hanseatic city of Bremen: the Bremen Classic Motorshow. Here, the Golf GTI will be in the spotlight from 30 January to 2 February. Both shows are therefore not only the opening events for the European classic season 2026, but also for the GTI year 2026. Article source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com 01. Golf GTI EDITION 50 - combined energy consumption: 7.9-7.6 l/100 km; CO₂ emissions combined: 179-173 g/km; CO₂ class: G-F 02. Near-production concept. The model is not yet available for sale

Škoda Elroq named Car of the Year by The Car Expert

Škoda is set to end the year with another Car of the Year award. The Czech brand’s mid-size all-electric SUV has added to its remarkable haul of industry titles by topping The Car Expert’s list of the best cars for 2026. Unlike other industry accolades, The Car Expert Awards are calculated using its Expert Rating Index, which aggregates new car reviews from more than 30 of the UK’s top motoring titles, including its own. The Car Expert then attributes an overall score to each new car that accurately reflects the consensus of the country’s leading automotive titles. The Car Expert team found that the Elroq was a consistent high scorer for practicality and value for money, with numerous reviews praising the car’s intelligent design and ease of use. Naming the Elroq Best Small Crossover and overall Car of the Year 2026. In 2025, the Škoda Elroq has quickly established itself as one of the most acclaimed new electric cars in the UK, securing multiple major industry honours. The all-electric SUV was named Car of the Year and Mid-Size SUV of the Year at the Auto Express New Car Awards, and also took top honours at the What Car? Electric Car Awards 2025, being named Best Family Electric SUV. In addition, the sporting flagship of the range, the Elroq vRS was crowned Car of the Year by The Sunday Times Driving. Launched in April, the Škoda Elroq is available with three battery size options: 63 kWh (59 kWh net), 82 kWh (77 kWh net) and 84 kWh (79 kWh net - vRS only). All feature rear-mounted motors and are rear-wheel drive, with the range-topping vRS model coming with all-wheel drive as standard. The Elroq offers a combined WLTP range of up to 360 miles with the largest 82 kWh (77 kWh net) battery option (Edition 85). Power outputs range from 170 PS to 340 PS. Article source: www.skoda.co.uk

50 years of the Audi five-cylinder

Audi will celebrate a very special anniversary in 2026: 50 years of the five-cylinder engine. The brand with the four rings first introduced this engine in 1976 in the second-generation Audi 100. This was followed by upgrades and new developments with turbocharging, exhaust gas purification, and four-valve technology, rally engines, and five-cylinder diesel engines. Currently, the 2.5 TFSI in the Audi RS 3 continues the great tradition of five-cylinder engines Audi’s five-cylinder engines have cult status and are deeply rooted in the Audi DNA. They have played a decisive role in shaping “Vorsprung durch Technik” – on the one hand with numerous successes in motorsport, and on the other, by virtue of their outstanding performance in series production. To this day, the 2.5 TFSI provides a highly evocative driving experience, not least because of its characteristic sound. The HISTORY: 50 years of success in series production and motorsport The first five-cylinder engine powered the Audi 100 (C2) in 1976. Known internally as Type 43, the model was intended to be positioned higher in the market than its predecessor. The four-cylinder engines of the time were not sufficient for the developers’ plans. Audi engineers therefore discussed using inline five-cylinder and six-cylinder engines in the early 1970s. The latter were ruled out due to space constraints and the unfavorable weight distribution. As a result, those responsible opted for the inline five-cylinder engine, which was based on the EA 827 engine concept, still in its infancy at the time. This inline four-cylinder engine was used throughout the Volkswagen Group in the 1970s, including in the Audi 80 and Audi 100. The five-cylinder engine derived from it, with a displacement of 2,144 cc, delivered 100 kW (136 PS). A modern fuel injection system increased efficiency and power delivery. Deliveries of the Audi 100 5E began in March 1977. From the original quattro to the Sport quattro Audi launched its first diesel version back in 1978: a naturally aspirated diesel with a displacement of two liters and 51 kW (70 PS). One year later, the first five-cylinder gasoline engine with turbocharging made its debut – another pioneering achievement by Audi. With 125 kW (170 PS) and 265 Nm of torque, it powered the new top model, the Audi 200 5T. The five-cylinder gasoline engine in the original 1980 Audi quattro reached even greater heights. Featuring turbocharging, intercooling, and permanent all-wheel drive, it formed a powerful technology package for both racing and the road. At the start of sales, it had a power output of 147 kW (200 PS). After Audi secured the World Rally Championship title in 1982 with this car, Finnish driver Hannu Mikkola won the drivers’ title in the World Rally Championship a year later. Also in 1983, Audi introduced the Sport quattro, which was 24 centimeters shorter and had a wider track. It was powered by a newly developed four-valve, five-cylinder light-alloy engine with 225 kW (306 PS). This made the Sport quattro the most powerful car ever offered by a German company for use on public roads up to that time. The model formed the basis for a new Group B rally car, in which the four-valve engine delivered 450 PS right from the start (331 kW). It was used for the first time in the penultimate race of 1984, the Ivory Coast Rally. The remaining eleven races of the season were contested by Sweden’s Stig Blomqvist in the 265 kW (360 PS) Audi quattro A2, Group B. In the end, he won the drivers’ title and Audi won the manufacturers’ world championship. Walter Röhrl on Pikes Peak Even after Audi withdrew from Group B rallying in 1986, there were further highlights on the racetrack: Walter Röhrl won the 1987 hill climb on Pikes Peak (USA) in the Audi Sport quattro S1 (E2). The racing car delivered 440 kW (598 PS) of power. Unlike the Audi Sport quattro S1 with its four-valve technology, Audi used the inline five-cylinder engine with the old two-valve cylinder head in the 200 quattro Trans-Am. The turbocharged engine with a displacement of 2.1 liters delivered 375 kW (510 PS). Hurley Haywood won the American Trans-Am series in 1988 with it in impressive style. And in 1989, the IMSA GTO captivated the US touring car scene with 530 kW (720 PS) – still from just over two liters of displacement. Audi unveiled another milestone in automotive history at the 1989 International Motor Show in Frankfurt am Main: the Audi 100 TDI. The direct-injection five-cylinder turbo diesel with a fully electronic engine management system produced 88 kW (120 PS) from a displacement of 2.5 liters. Audi continued to refine its range of five-cylinder gasoline engines. In 1994, the Avant RS2 with 232 kW (315 PS) was brought onto the market. As an Avant with sports car power, it became the founding model of a new automotive class. With the introduction of the Audi A4 (B5) in 1994, five-cylinder engines made their exit from the B segment. The new V6 engines gradually replaced them in the mid-1990s. The last five-cylinder engines – the 2.5 TDI in the Audi A6 and the 20V turbo with a displacement of 2.2 liters in the Audi S6 – were phased out in 1997. Turbo and direct injection in the Audi TT RS In 2009 – 30 years after the debut of the first five-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine – the big comeback arrived in the Audi TT RS: from 2.5 liters of displacement, quattro GmbH generated 250 kW (340 PS) from the transversely mounted engine featuring turbocharging and gasoline direct injection. It also delivered outstanding performance in the RS 3 Sportback1. The TT RS plus, which Audi introduced in 2012, even achieved 265 kW (360 PS). In 2013, the RS Q3 became the first compact SUV to open up a new market segment. As in the TT RS and RS 3, it was the 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine that served as the power unit. A new version of the engine followed in 2016. Thanks to lightweight construction measures, reduced internal friction, and increased power delivery, the engineers achieved a good 17 percent more power with the same 2,480 cc displacement: 294 kW (400 PS) and 480 Nm of maximum torque. 400 PS and 500 Nm in the Audi RS 3 Since 2021, the Audi RS 3 has been equipped with a modified version of the 2.5 TFSI, which is more powerful than ever before. It enables the compact sports car to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds. The top speed is limited to 250 km/h, with an optional 280 km/h available. With the RS dynamic package and ceramic brakes, the top speed is as high as 290 km/h. The decisive factor behind these performance figures is the torque, which has increased to 500 Nm and is available between 2,250 and 5,600 rpm. That is 20 Nm more than in the predecessor model. This allows the Audi RS 3 to accelerate even faster from mid-range engine speeds. Its maximum output of 294 kW (400 PS) (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 9.6–9.1; combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 217–207; CO2 class: G) is available earlier than before at 5,600 rpm and extends over a wide range up to 7,000 rpm. A new engine control unit also ensures faster networking of all drive components, taking driving dynamics to a new level. The SOUND: evocative and unmistakable The five-cylinder’s throaty sound makes for a highly evocative driving experience. Its signature sound is created by the odd number of cylinders and the unique firing sequence 1-2-4-5-3, which alternates between cylinder pairs adjacent to each other and further away at an interval of 144 degrees of crankshaft rotation. This gives the 2.5 TFSI a very special rhythm and sound character. The geometry of the exhaust manifold contributes to this unique sound as well with different exhaust gas flow times between the exhaust valves and the turbocharger. The fully variable exhaust flap control introduced in the third-generation RS 3 Sportback1 and second-generation RS 3 Sedan2 in 2021 increases the sound spectrum and makes it even more tangible. The flaps assume various intermediate positions depending on the Audi drive select mode chosen: in dynamic, RS Performance, and RS Torque Rear modes, they open significantly earlier than in other driving modes – the evocative sound characteristics become even more prominent. The characteristic sound of the five-cylinder engine is enhanced by the optional RS sports exhaust system, which produces an even sportier sound. The TECHNOLOGY: 2.5 TFSI with turbocharging When developing the current generation of the five-cylinder engine, which made its debut in 2016, the focus was on high performance and lightweight construction. In the Audi RS 3 (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 9.6–9.1; combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 217–207; CO2 class: G), the engine, known internally as the EA855 Evo Sport, delivers 400 PS and 500 Nm of torque. The 2.5 TFSI thus offers excellent mid-range acceleration and outstanding power: the compact sports car can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds and reaches a top speed of up to 290 km/h. The abbreviation TFSI stands for turbocharging and direct injection. The 2.5 TFSI uses dual injection – into the intake manifold and into the combustion chambers – as well as the Audi valvelift system for variable control of the exhaust valves. This enables more precise regulation of the fuel/air mixture, resulting in optimal power delivery with reduced fuel consumption. In the five-cylinder engine, fuel is injected at 250 bar; the large turbocharger generates a maximum boost pressure of 1.5 bar (relative)/2.5 bar (absolute). The cylinder head, bearings, pistons, and crankshaft are highly durable. Lightweight materials are used for many engine components, benefiting the responsiveness and eagerness to rev. In total, the five-cylinder engine weighs around 160 kilograms and, at less than 50 centimeters long, is extremely compact. This makes the long-stroke engine (bore 82.5 mm x stroke 92.8 mm) perfect for transverse installation. The 2.5 TFSI’s crankcase is made of aluminum, which dramatically reduces its weight compared to the previous gray-cast-iron components. The crankshaft is hollow-bored, which also contributes to the five-cylinder’s low weight. Compared to a solid crankshaft, less mass needs to be set in rotation, which in turn improves the engine’s responsiveness. Audi also uses other lightweight materials, such as a magnesium oil pan top and aluminum belt pulleys. Extensive measures reduce internal friction, wear, and fuel consumption, thereby optimizing power output. These include plasma-coated cylinder liners and special oil channels in the base of the aluminum pistons to improve cooling. The innovative thermal management system with a switchable coolant pump also reduces friction and increases fuel economy: during the short warm-up phase after a cold start, the switchable water pump does not circulate the coolant in the cylinder head, allowing the 2.5 TFSI engine to reach its operating temperature more quickly. The demand-controlled aluminum oil pump – in conjunction with the Audi valvelift control system – also contributes to increased efficiency. The oil pump adjusts the oil pressure to the prevailing requirements, while the Audi valvelift system on the exhaust side varies the duration of valve opening in two stages depending on load and speed – for moderate consumption at low and partial load, and for direct responsiveness and excellent mid-range acceleration at full load. As part of the vehicle testing, engine tests are carried out in different regions and in all European climate zones from northern to southern Europe. In addition to cold- and hot-weather driving, the program includes assessments at various altitudes and the endurance test on the Nürburgring north loop. Thousands of test kilometers with one goal: to ensure maximum performance under all conditions. The PRODUCTION: manual assembly in the Bock factory The five-cylinder engine is built at the Győr plant in Hungary, in the so-called Bock assembly, which spans more than 1,000 square meters. The engine is put together by hand, without the use of robots. The 2.5 TFSI is assembled by highly qualified specialists at 21 stations before it leaves the factory. Key components such as the connecting rods and cylinder crankcase, including the plasma coating of the cylinder liners, are manufactured separately in a specialized production area, also at the Győr plant. Assembly of the five-cylinder begins with placing the aluminum crankcase and securing it on the assembly stand. Once the engine has been embossed with its number, the bearing shells are oiled and the crankshaft is inserted. The pistons can then be assembled with the connecting rods and placed in the cylinder crankcase. A torque check is carried out to ensure that the crankshaft rotates smoothly and that all components are properly bolted together. Next, the sealing flange is installed and the oil pan is fixed in place. Its upper section is made of magnesium, making it significantly lighter than the lower aluminum part. The process continues with the installation of the injectors, speed sensor, and timing chain. The timing chain connects the crankshaft to the camshaft and ensures that the valves open and close at the right instant. This is followed by one of the most important steps: bolting on the cylinder head and installing the spark plugs. The spark ignites the fuel/air mixture, setting the pistons in motion and creating the characteristic sound of the five-cylinder engine. The central element for the air supply is the intake manifold, which is then bolted on, along with the large turbocharger, which compresses the intake air, delivering more oxygen to the combustion chamber. This enables better combustion and thus contributes to optimized performance and efficiency. Finally, the engine wiring is attached and the dual-mass flywheel is mounted. Positioned between the engine and the seven-speed S tronic transmission, it reduces vibrations and oscillations in the powertrain. This increases driving comfort and the service life of the components. The final step involves mechanical and electronic tests to ensure that all functions work properly. This includes the cold test, in which the engine is filled with operating fluids and checked. The so-called hot test is also part of the procedure: here, the engine is started for the first time and tested under load. Once all guidelines have been met and every test gives the green light, the five-cylinder engine is loaded by crane onto a pallet and transported by train from the Győr plant to Ingolstadt. That’s where the Audi RS 3 rolls off the production line and the so-called “marriage” takes place – when the 2.5 TFSI is finally installed in the top-of-the-line A3 model. Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com 1. Audi RS 3 Sportback: Fuel consumption (combined): 9.6–9.3 l/100 km; CO2 emissions (combined): 217–211 g/km; CO2 class: G 2. Audi RS 3 Sedan: Fuel consumption (combined): 9.4–9.1 l/100 km; CO2 emissions (combined): 213–207 g/km; CO2 class: G 3. Audi RS 3 Sportback: Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 9.5–9.3 (24.8– 25.3 US mpg); combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 217–211 (349.2–339.6 g/mi); CO2 class: G

New T-Roc receives top rating of five stars in Euro NCAP tests

With the new T-Roc, another Volkswagen model has achieved the maximum rating of five stars in Euro NCAP tests. The outstanding overall score is proof of the compact SUV’s holistic safety concept, which meets the current, particularly demanding test procedure. The new T-Roc is therefore among the best vehicles in its class. Euro NCAP (the European New Car Assessment Programme) announced the latest results of its safety tests this morning. The new T-Roc achieved high scores in tests conducted by the renowned European consumer protection institute. These included protection of adult occupants, protection of children and protection of vulnerable road users as well as pedestrian protection. In addition, the Euro NCAP test team places great emphasis on accident prevention. In this area, too, the compact SUV – which is equipped with numerous standard driver assistance and emergency braking systems even in the basic version – earned good marks from the test commission. Back in May, the Volkswagen Tayron had already received the coveted five-star rating. Furthermore, the 2025 Euro NCAP re-assessments of Golf, ID.3 and ID.4 confirm that these Volkswagen models also continue to achieve five-star levels thanks to ongoing improvements. All awards once again demonstrate that Volkswagen lives up to its “safety4all” claim: the company deploys high-tech assistance systems not only in premium models but especially in its high-volume models, thereby further enhancing the comfort and safety of individual mobility. Standard assistance systems of the new T-Roc at a glance: Oncoming vehicle braking when turning and swerve support Driver attention monitor and driver alert system Auto hold function for the electronic parking brake Hill start assist Park distance control (warning signals for obstacles at the front and rear) Electronic stability control Light Assist main-beam control Predictive speed limiter Cruise control system, with adaptive cruise control (depending on trim) Front Cross Traffic Assist Autonomous emergency braking Front Assist with pedestrian and cyclist monitoring Park Assist Plus (standard for Style and R-Line) Rear-view camera system (standard for Life equipment line and above) Lane keeping system Lane Assist Lane change system Side Assist with rear traffic alert and exit warning system Dynamic road sign display Optional assistance systems available for the T-Roc: Parking package with: - V2X - Memory function for Park Assist Plus - Park Assist Pro with remote function IQ.DRIVE technology package with: - Travel Assist including Lane Assist and Emergency Assist - Proactive occupant protection system - Area view including rear-view camera - Head-up display Bestseller improved in all areas. The first T-Roc was launched in 2017 and is Volkswagen’s most successful SUV worldwide after the Tiguan. The newly presented second generation has been improved across the board. With consistently new hybrid drives, a new and very high-quality interior including next-generation infotainment, cockpit and operating systems, more space in the interior and luggage compartment, and assistance systems on the level of higher vehicle classes, the T-Roc has made a major leap forward. Matching this: the new, clean and charismatic design. Euro NCAP – the benchmark for safety. Euro NCAP is an independent European organisation that has been assessing the safety level of new vehicles since 1997. It is supported by European transport ministries, automobile clubs and insurance associations and provides car buyers with comprehensive information on the safety of new models. The test procedures and requirements for standard assistance systems and passive safety are tightened at regular intervals – approximately every two years. Detailed information on the respective tests can be found at www.euroncap.com. Article source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com 01. T-Roc 1.5 eTSI (110 kW/150 PS) - Energy consumption: combined 6.0-5.6 l/100 km; CO₂ emissions: combined 136-128 g/km, CO₂ class: E-D 02. Within the system limits: the driver must always be ready to override the assist system and is not released from the responsibility of driving the vehicle with due care and attention 03. Information applies to the German market

Audi brings Disney+ into the vehicle and enters “the Grid” in the movie “TRON: Ares”

Audi and Disney have joined forces to create entertainment experiences both in the car and in the cinema. Audi customers can now experience Disney+ programming directly in the vehicle through onboard streaming technology. Additionally, two Audi models play a role in Disney’s new movie “TRON: Ares,” now playing only in cinemas. From the big screen to in-car displays, the collaboration underscores the commitment of Audi to blending cutting-edge technology and emotional, immersive global experiences to create unforgettable journeys. Audi is integrating the Disney+ app into its model range, marking another step in expanding its onboard digital entertainment offering. Customers can install the app directly via the Audi Application Store in the vehicle and log in with their existing Disney+ account. Epic stories from the Star Wars, Pixar and Marvel universes – along with Disney classics and new movie highlights, including previous films of the “TRON” series – can be streamed on the central MMI display when the vehicle is parked or on the optional passenger display during the drive. The app is being rolled out simultaneously in 43 markets worldwide: in many European countries, parts of Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States. The app is available via the Audi Application Store in the new models of the Audi A5, Audi Q5, Audi A6, Audi A6 e-tron, and Audi Q6 e-tron model series. With Disney+, Audi is adding another renowned provider to its app portfolio, which already includes various attractive entertainment platforms. The Audi Application Store, which was jointly developed with CARIAD, is integrated directly into the MMI and does not require a smartphone to operate. It is necessary to have a myAudi account and an active data connection. Audi on the big screen Audi and Disney have teamed up on the road and in the cinema – in “TRON: Ares.” The third installment of the franchise was released in October. The film features two Audi models that bridge the gap between classic automotive culture and a digital, electrified future. “TRON: Ares” follows a highly sophisticated program: Ares, who is sent from the digital world into the real world on a dangerous mission, marking humankind’s first encounter with A.I. beings. The feature film is directed by Joachim Rønning and stars Jared Leto and Greta Lee. Ajay Singh – a tech-savvy analyst and gaming expert, played by Hasan Minhaj – drives an Audi Q8 e-tron. Seth (Arturo Castro), technical assistant to Eve Kim (Greta Lee) – a brilliant and analytical programmer leading the digital rebellion – drives a fictitious “Audi quattro Rallye.” His vehicle is inspired by the iconic rally cars of the 1980s, paying homage to Audi’s rich tradition in motorsport. Audi has long been part of diverse film genres and international productions through product placement – always aiming to become part of the story. In an industry that often anticipates technological innovation – through Computer Generated Imagery (CGI) or virtual production techniques – Audi embraces the opportunity to help shape new formats and embed the brand in cultural narratives. Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com

Test Centre Complete: Volkswagen Group now able to fully develop and validate -products in China for China

With the opening of its first Test Workshops in Hefei, Volkswagen Group China Technology Company (VCTC) has accomplished its final expansion stage, now bringing end-to-end development capabilities directly to the Chinese market. The new facilities significantly expand the Group’s local R&D strength and integrate software, hardware, and whole-vehicle validation under one roof — enabling faster decision-making, closer customer alignment, and accelerated rollout of next-generation technologies. With the completion of the new Test Workshops, VCTC has become the Group’s most comprehensive R&D hub beyond its home market. For the first time in Volkswagen’s history, it can support the development and validation of new vehicle platforms from very early phases outside Germany. The new Test Workshops feature over 100 state-of-the-art laboratories across around 100,000 square metres, delivering powerful testing capabilities. These include software–hardware integration, battery and powertrain testing, and full vehicle-level validation. Oliver Blume, CEO Volkswagen Group: “Our ‘In China for China’ strategy continues to gain momentum. At our development centre in Hefei, China, we have now created all the conditions necessary to develop, test and locally manufacture the next generation of intelligent connected vehicles. This milestone makes us even faster and more efficient – and brings us even closer to our customers. This will enable us, as the Volkswagen Group, to consolidate our position in the world's largest automotive market with the clear goal of becoming the global technology driver of the automotive industry." Ralf Brandstätter, Member of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG responsible for China, and Chairman and CEO of Volkswagen Group China: “China is the world’s most competitive automotive market, and our customers here expect rapid innovation and flawless quality. This is why we are taking our development capabilities in China for China to the next level. By expanding our footprint in Hefei, we are strengthening our ability to respond quickly to local needs and to shape technologies directly where they will be used. This step deepens our commitment to China and ensures that our future products reflect the preferences and expectations of Chinese customers from the very beginning.” VCTC plays a pivotal role in Volkswagen Group’s “In China for China” strategy. As the Group’s most comprehensive R&D hub beyond its home market, it is also the only Group R&D centre dedicated exclusively to electric, intelligent and connected vehicles. VCTC is integrating core development units and decision-making processes for local vehicle and technology projects, while coordinating developmental processes with the R&D units of joint ventures. By deepening integration into the local technology ecosystem, VCTC can proactively address China’s market-defining trends — such as digitalisation and autonomous driving — at an early stage, allowing the company to fully harness the growth momentum and innovative vitality of the Chinese market. Delivering CEA at China Speed Right in Hefei Software-hardware test workshop, VCTC and CARIAD China are launching the first delivery of the China Electronic Architecture (CEA) – the Group’s first zonal E/E architecture specifically tailored to the needs of Chinese customers, within 18 months. Enabled by the all-new Software-Defined-Vehicle development process, the overall vehicle development cycle can be shortened by 30%. Leveraging local development and early supplier integration during the concept phase of new cars and technologies, the cost of a new model can be reduced by up to 50% in specific key projects. CEA also ensures seamless integration of digital cockpit functions, Advanced Driving Assistance System functions, and whole-vehicle level over-the-air upgrades. Thomas Ulbrich, CTO of Volkswagen Group China and CEO of VCTC: “The new workshops give our engineering teams an entirely new level of integration. We can now run software, hardware, and full-vehicle validation processes in parallel, shorten decision loops, and bring innovations to maturity much faster. This environment enables us to push forward next-generation intelligent- vehicle technologies with high precision and efficiency.” Volkswagen DNA, Engineered in China Safety, durability and reliability have long defined the Volkswagen DNA. The new Test Workshops in Hefei further strengthen the Group’s commitment in China by enabling earlier and more comprehensive validation of core vehicle systems, while also validating products and technology for export to regions like ASEAN and the Middle East. At the Battery & Powertrain Integration Testing Centre, engineers can test up to 500 battery systems per year. Tests cover performance, lifetime, safety and environmental robustness, as well as E-Drive, thermal management, electronics and battery cell components. The Platform & Module Testing Centre follows the same philosophy. Its advanced Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) laboratory safeguards the reliability of vehicle electronics, while a full-vehicle durability test bench could simulate all global driving road conditions within the workshops. Together with the City Test Track, Volkswagen Group has established a full design–build–test– validate cycle in Hefei, in close collaboration with its global R&D network. More capabilities at the gate Volkswagen Group continues to expand the capabilities of Hefei. The Functions Integration Test (FIT) Laboratory comes online in mid-2026 — one of only two in the Group — to simulate extreme environment conditions. These efforts establish a future-ready foundation for Volkswagen’s next chapter in intelligent and connected mobility. Article source: www.vwpress.co.uk

Dynamics meet team spirit: FC Bayern Munich women choose Audi Q3

FC Bayern’s women’s soccer team has overwhelmingly chosen the new Audi Q3 along with the Audi A3 and Audi A1 allstreet as their preferred cars at this year’s vehicle handover. During a driving event at Lake Tegernsee, the players had the opportunity to get to know their new Audi models down to the smallest detail. A partnership that benefits both sides. The women of FC Bayern Munich received their new company cars from Audi during a special handover event. At Lake Tegernsee, players including Giulia Gwinn, Klara Bühl, and Lea Schüller had the chance to thoroughly test their new wheels. Yves Becker-Fahr, Head of Sales Germany, expressed his enthusiasm about the recently extended collaboration between Audi and FC Bayern Munich: “We are proud to provide mobility for the FC Bayern players and to support them off the field with our vehicles. The partnership stands for shared values such as team spirit, peak performance, and being dynamic – qualities that are crucial both in sports and the automotive world.” After receiving their new Audi Q3s, which most of the women’s team opted for, a special destination awaited the players: the Faller-Klamm Bridge. There, the squad faced a series of playful challenges designed to help them get to know their new cars even better. Tasks included driving exactly the distance of a penalty kick – eleven meters – and setting the FC Bayern Munich team colors as fast as possible using the ambient lighting system of the Q3. The crew then headed back to Munich. Bianca Rech, Director of FC Bayern Women, states: “Our collaboration with Audi is a strong sign of the esteem they hold for our team and an important step in providing our players with the best possible conditions. We share a passion for top performance and look forward to a successful partnership that goes far beyond the road.” In total, 26 Audi Q3s, five Audi A3s and one Audi A1 allstreet were handed over to the players and staff of the FC Bayern Munich women’s team. This collaboration has been in place since 2021, while Audi has been a long-standing partner of the overall club since 2002. The men’s team of the record champions has also been driving Audi for many years. They took delivery of their new company cars in mid-October. Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com