New SUV from Wolfsburg: the Volkswagen Tayron is now rolling off the production line at Volkswagen’s main plant

The newest member of the Volkswagen portfolio – the Tayron – was given a grand reception this week when employees from nearly all the different disciplines joined Wolfsburg Plant Manager Uwe Schwartz and Works Council member Jürgen Mahnkopf for the symbolic start of series production. The SUV all-rounder, which is optionally available with seven seats, is the fourth model to be produced at the Volkswagen Group’s largest plant, alongside the Golf, Tiguan and Touran. To date, more than 48 million cars have been produced in Wolfsburg – more than any other car factory in the world. "Wolfsburg has always been a role model within our production network – and will continue to fulfill this role even in challenging times," says Christian Vollmer, Board Member for Production and Logistics at the Volkswagen brand and also a member of the extended Group Management Board. “Other locations look to what happens in Wolfsburg. The successful Tayron SoP [Start of Production] sends a strong signal.” Plant Manager Uwe Schwartz used the SoP to thank colleagues from across the different specialisms that have been involved in the project: "A car launch is always a team effort, involving the entire production team. With the Tayron, many cogs meshed perfectly: from the press shop to body construction, painting, assembly, and vehicle completion." According to Schwartz, collaborations with other departments, such as Procurement or Technical Development, also worked smoothly. This was the only way it was possible to adhere almost exactly to the long-planned SoP schedule, especially with the challenge of integrating the Tayron into the processes of Assembly Line 4 while Tiguan production was ongoing. "Our colleagues can be proud of this achievement,” adds Schwartz. “In the coming weeks we will do everything we can to ramp up Tayron production successfully.” Jürgen Mahnkopf, Deputy Chairman of the General and Group Works Council: “The Tayron SoP marks an important milestone for the Wolfsburg site. I am sure that our new SUV will build on the success of its predecessor, the Tiguan Allspace, and make an important contribution to job security. Customers in China are already excited about this car and the Tayron will also find many buyers in Europe. Our colleagues in production have done a great job in challenging conditions. In parallel with the pre-series production of the Tayron, they had to manage the launches of the new Tiguan and the Golf product upgrade. They achieved this together, as a team, and I’d like to thank them on behalf of everyone working at the site." The first Tayron to roll off the line this week was an Ultra Violet Metallic example with a 2.0 litre TDI engine01 and a panoramic roof. Over the coming weeks, show and demonstrator cars for European Volkswagen dealers will be produced in Wolfsburg. The second-largest SUV of the Volkswagen brand in Europe, after the Touareg, will go on display in showrooms from March, with the first cars being delivered to customers shortly after. Customers will soon be able to choose from seven efficient engines, including two next-generation plug-in hybrid drives (eHybrid). These offer electric ranges of more than 100 kilometres and long travelling distances of up to 850 km between fuel stops. Article source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com 01. Tayron 2.0 TDI 4MOTION, 142 kW (193 PS) | Combined consumption: 6.8-6.1 l/100km | Combined CO₂ emissions: 180-162 g/km | CO₂ class: F

New engines for in-demand Volkswagen Golfs

Two of the most popular trims in the entire UK Golf line-up are set to be enhanced with new engines and a plug-in hybrid drive. They come at a time when the Golf is already the UK's biggest-selling car in its class so far this year, and all three new additions can be ordered at any Volkswagen UK Retailer from Thursday 21 November. New Golf Black Edition engines Two engines are being added to the stylish Golf Black Edition trim that was unveiled in July this year: a petrol 1.5 eTSI mild hybrid and a diesel 2.0 TDI. Both engines have a 150 PS power output and are paired with an automatic seven-speed direct-shift gearbox (DSG). The 1.5 eTSI can propel the Golf Black Edition from standstill to 62 mph in 8.4 seconds, whereas the 2.0 TDI completes the same sprint even quicker, in exactly eight seconds. The new engines add to what is already a stylish and well-specified package. Sitting one step below the exciting GTE trim in the UK Golf line-up, the Black Edition includes smart 18-inch Leeds alloy wheels, upgraded IQ.Matrix headlights, illuminated door handles and Volkswagen logo at the front, heated front seats and head-turning black styling elements. Prices for the Golf Black Edition 1.5 eTSI and 2.0 TDI are £33,690.00 and £35,500.00 respectively (on-the-road recommended retail prices including VAT). New Golf Match eHybrid A frugal eHybrid is being added to the Golf Match line-up – the most popular Golf derivative in the UK. The Match trim was re-introduced across much of the Volkswagen range in early 2024; it’s a package famous for combining affordability with generous levels of equipment. The newly developed second-generation Volkswagen plug-in hybrid drive builds on this with extra efficiency and enhanced performance. Electric-only driving of more than 88 miles is possible with the car’s 19.7 kWh battery, which can be charged at home with up to 11 kW AC and at rapid public stations with up to 40 kW DC. When the engine is engaged, drivers are rewarded with a system output of 204 PS and a 0-62 mph dash of just 7.2 seconds. Together, the electric drive and petrol engine work in perfect harmony to deliver super-efficient fuel economy of 141.2 miles per gallon. Features that come as standard include 17-inch Nottingham alloy wheels, LED headlights, a rear-view camera, adaptive cruise control, Lights and Vision package, Discover navigation system, Park and Comfort technology package including Park Assist Pro, Lane Assist and Climatronic air conditioning. The Golf Match eHybrid is priced at £36,140 (on-the-road recommended retail price including VAT). Article source: www.vwpress.co.uk

Škoda Octavia Combi RS wins prestigious 2024 Golden Steering Wheel award in the mid-sized car category

The Škoda Octavia Combi RS has been awarded the coveted 2024 Golden Steering Wheel in the mid-sized car category. In a first step, readers of German “Auto Bild” and the country’s largest-selling national Sunday newspaper “Bild am Sonntag” voted Škoda’s bestselling model series’ sporty range-topper into the top three out of 16 cars in this category. A jury of experts then subjected these three finalists to a challenging test drive on the German Lausitzring race track. This victory marks the Czech car manufacturer’s ninth Golden Steering Wheel win. Škoda Auto CEO Klaus Zellmer accepted the accolade at yesterday’s awards ceremony in Berlin. “Škoda always strives to give our customers more than they expect, and this illustrious award from Auto Bild and Bild am Sonntag readers and the expert jury reflects that ambition. I’m grateful. Our bestseller Octavia is a true icon of our brand, consistently scoring points for typical Škoda virtues: spaciousness, practicality, and an excellent price-performance proposition. These characteristics have helped make the Octavia Combi the best-selling estate car in Europe last year and in the first half of 2024. The fourth generation of the model continues on this path, with the Octavia Combi RS as the sportiest version. I’m honoured to have driven it up onto the awards ramp!” Klaus Zellmer, Škoda Auto CEO Octavia Combi RS triumphs over 15 competitors This year saw 78 new cars compete for one of the coveted Golden Steering Wheel awards. Each manufacturer was able to nominate up to three models. The readers of “Auto Bild” and “Bild am Sonntag” then decided which of these would ultimately make it into the final round with expert test drives on the Lausitzring. Vehicles competed in seven different categories. 16 new models entered the field in the mid-sized segment. The Škoda Octavia Combi RS wowed readers with its overall package and was awarded a ticket to the finals at the Lausitzring. During the demanding test drives, the bestselling model series’ sporty range-topper also impressed the 21-strong jury of racing drivers, journalists and celebrities with its driving characteristics. The judges included rally world champion Sébastien Ogier and motorsport legend Hans-Joachim Stuck, a former Formula 1 driver and Le Mans winner. The vehicles had to score points in numerous areas such as brake feel, acceleration, agility, steering and many more. Škoda Octavia Combi RS: successful overall package delights readers and customers The Octavia Combi RS offers 195 kW (265 hp) of power. It has a 7-speed automatic DSG transmission and delivers a top speed of 250 km/h. Its turbocharged four-cylinder petrol unit comes from the EA 888 engine family. The top version of Škoda’s bestseller, which has sold over seven million units to date, features black exterior accents and the RS Design Selection for the interior. The equipment includes LED Matrix beam headlights, heated sports seats and a modern infotainment system incorporating ChatGPT for enhanced voice assistant functionality. Representing an excellent value proposition, the Octavia Combi RS is equally suitable as a comfortable fleet vehicle and as a versatile family car. Ninth Golden Steering Wheel in total for Škoda The first Golden Steering Wheel was awarded by “Bild am Sonntag” in 1976. In 2009, the German Sunday paper started awarding the prize in collaboration with the “Auto Bild” car magazine. This year’s success for the Octavia Combi RS marks Škoda’s ninth victory in the automotive competition. The Czech car maker received its first Golden Steering Wheel for the first-generation Fabia in 1999, with the successor repeating this feat in 2007. The second Octavia generation won in 2004, while the second-generation Superb received the trophy in 2008. In 2017, the Karoq left behind its competitors and in 2019, the Kamiq was honoured with the coveted award. In 2021, the Golden Steering Wheel went to the Enyaq, followed a year later by its coupé variant, the Enyaq Coupé RS. Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

Double victory for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles at the Fleet News FN50 awards

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles emerges triumphant at the 2024 Fleet News FN50 Awards, after being named ‘Most Reliable Van Maker’, and picking up ‘Most Reliable Van’ with the Volkswagen Transporter. This marks the fourth time Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has taken home the overall title, outperforming its rivals in the contract hire and leasing sector. The Transporter was named 'Most Reliable Van' in recognition of its exceptional reliability as a work vehicle, minimising downtime and helping keep the UK's van drivers on the road. Also recognised were the Volkswagen Caddy, which took the third spot, and the Crafter, which came in at number eight – ensuring Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles had more vans in the top 10 list than any other manufacturer. Announced at the annual FN50 Dinner, which took place in London last night, the prestigious FN50 Awards celebrate achievements from across the UK’s fleet sctor, and are recognised as a benchmark of industry excellence. Craig Cavanagh, National Fleet Manager, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, said: "We are incredibly proud to once again be named ‘Most Reliable Van Maker’, and to have gained further recognition for our Transporter, Caddy and Crafter vans. These awards are a testament to our commitment to supporting fleet customers with the reliability they depend on to keep their businesses moving.” For more details on Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ award-winning range of products and services, or to find your nearest Van Centre, please visit www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk. Article source: www.vwpress.co.uk

Impressive appearance: the new Audi A5 family on the Côte d'Azur

The new Audi A5 impressed numerous media representatives and many potential customers with its qualities at its world premiere. Now it is proving its qualities in the south of France: the model variants of the Audi A5 unfold their full potential on the winding roads of the Côte d'Azur. The scenery is straight out of a James Bond movie: a narrow road winds through the French Maritime Alps between rugged, overgrown mountains. It leads through tunnels carved into the rock and features bends of all kinds, alternating between tight turns and long sweepers. The hinterland of Nice, France, offers the perfect setting to get to know the character of the new Audi A5 models. The roads of the Côte d'Azur are particularly challenging for the chassis and drivetrain of the new mid-size models based on the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) due to their profile. Powerful and partially electrified gasoline and diesel engines with MHEV plus The new A5 model series marks the launch of the first engines with the new MHEV plus technology from Audi – a 48-volt mild-hybrid system with powertrain generator, belt starter alternator and lithium iron phosphate battery. The MHEV plus system raises the performance and efficiency of the new Audi A5 TDI and Audi S51, 2 models to a new level. While the systems ensure dynamics on the mountain passes at Saint-Paule-de-Vence thanks to the additional electric power of up to 18 kW (24 hp), they also excel in the city traffic of Nice with purely electric driving during stop-and-go. When decelerating, the powertrain generator feeds energy back into the compact lithium iron phosphate battery with up to 25 kW of regenerative braking. A perfect symbiosis: thanks to the high charging capacity, there is usually enough power in the battery for the next rapid acceleration. The MHEV plus system also offers numerous advantages in urban traffic. On the one hand, the electric support for the combustion engine significantly reduces fuel consumption, especially when driving slowly. On the other hand, the stored energy helps to supply systems that have high power draws with electricity, even when the combustion engine is not in operation - at traffic lights, for example. At a sufficient state of charge, the electrically powered air conditioning compressor, for example, continues to operate and keeps the interior at a comfortable temperature. More dynamic chassis and steering design The decisive factor for a driving experience that is true to the Audi DNA is not only the drive, but also the chassis. When developing the new Audi A5 and S51, 2 models, the driving characteristics typical of the brand were right at the top of the specifications. These characteristics include effortless and precise driving. The new Audi A5 should impress with its dynamic and agile handling, but also with its comfort. To achieve this, Audi has revised the chassis with a number of detailed improvements. For example, the steering has been mounted directly to the body and also uses a significantly stiffer torsion bar. These measures reduce the elasticity between the steering wheel and the wheel. As a result, the driver receives precise feedback from the road conditions in every situation. When cornering, the Audi A5 family benefits from a more rear bias in the anti-roll stabilization and a stiffer connection to the rear axle, allowing it to be steered with agility. The integrated brake control system with brake torque vectoring enables a dynamic build-up of brake pressure. It also supports dynamic cornering through targeted braking interventions at the wheels on the inside of the corner. The new Audi A5 rolls off the production line with dynamically tuned steel suspension as standard. Alternatively, S sports suspension (standard on the Audi S51, 2 ) and S sports suspension with electronic damper control are also available. Both optional variants lower the body by 20 millimeters. The optional adaptive S sports suspension with damper control offers a significantly wider spread between the individual driving modes that can be selected via the Audi drive select dynamic handling system. The dynamic mode is noticeably firmer and more dynamically tuned, while the comfort mode offers more reserves for a relaxed drive. New operating concept with two interior displays On entering the car, the new displays immediately catch the eye: the 11.9-inch Audi virtual cockpit and the 14.5-inch Audi MMI panoramic display in a curved design. Optionally, the 10.9-inch MMI passenger display complements the Digital Stage. Outstanding ergonomics and simple, driver-centered operation were key elements in the development of this concept. The curved panoramic display is designed so that it can be reached and operated effortlessly. The new Audi A5 models feature the Audi assistant, a voice assistant that understands natural language and also learns independently. The driver activates the assistant via the voice command "Hey Audi" or via a button on the steering wheel. This can be used to execute various vehicle functions, start navigation, or request general knowledge. If the Audi assistant cannot answer the question, the AI-chatbot ChatGPT, provided via Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service, is used, which accesses millions of data records and provides answers. This is seamless for drivers, as all functions are integrated into the Audi assistant. The head-up display (HUD) in the new Audi A5 models was also newly developed. Thanks to the maximum utilization of the installation space and the adapted display technology, the visible image area is more than 85 percent larger than before and the display is even more precise. In addition, the HUD is now configurable and displays additional content on request. The HUD displays information such as speed, assistance systems, navigation instructions and media data in a clear way. The newly designed steering wheel controls allow users to scroll through lists and make direct selections without taking their eyes off the road. Calls can also be received and made via the HUD. Depending on the model and equipment, there are further display modes. Audi offers the optional Bang & Olufsen Premium sound system with 3D sound and headrest speakers for all those who like to enjoy music in the car. This impresses with maximum acoustic precision and a natural sound. A total of 20 loudspeakers and two amplifiers with 810 watts of power provide a unique audio experience. Four loudspeakers are integrated into the front headrests of the optional sports seats. They enhance the personal surround sound experience and provide an immersive sound experience. They also create a much more balanced sound between the front and rear rows of seats. The acoustics when making phone calls also benefit from the headrest speakers, because phone calls cannot audibly penetrate to the outside of the car and the occupants in the front seats can conduct personal phone calls. Navigation prompts can also be transmitted directly to the driver's headrest upon request, so no one in the other seats will be disturbed. New standards in digital light In the class of the new A5 models, Audi is underlining its leading role in the chapters of lighting design and lighting technology. At the front, the Audi A5 family offers digital, optionally customizable daytime running lights with LED technology and, at the rear, second-generation digital OLED rear lights. With around 60 segments per digital OLED panel, they are increasingly developing into a display at the rear of the vehicle on the A5. This enables car-to-x communication and increases safety on the road. This includes, for example, the new communication light, which warns other road users during automated parking and in the event of an accident or hazard by means of a specific light symbol within the digital light signature. The dynamic lighting effects when unlocking and leaving the vehicle reflect the aesthetics of movement as part of the Audi DNA. The same is true of the active digital light signature, which sets the light in the headlights and rear lights in motion in an unprecedented way. The headlights and rear lights are three-dimensionally drawn and offer optional digital light signatures, bringing the physical and digital worlds together. Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com 1. Audi S5 Sedan TFSI: Fuel consumption (combined): 7.8–7.4 l/100 km; CO2 emissions (combined): 178–169 g/km; CO2 class: G–F 2. Audi S5 Avant TFSI: Fuel consumption (combined): 8.0–7.6 l/100 km; CO2 emissions (combined): 182–171 g/km; CO2 classes: G–F

Audi aligns product development for the future

Flat hierarchies, clear responsibilities, faster decision-making processes: Audi is systematically restructuring its vehicle development in line with the principles of the matrix organization. With the internal presentation of the new collaboration model, Gernot Döllner and the project team have now laid the groundwork for the transformation of Product Line Management, Technical Development, and the associated interface partners at Audi. At the same time, the CEO announced the reorganization of other divisions. The principle of Product Line Management has been established at Audi for many years and has been tried and tested in practice. The clear aim of the current matrix organization and Technical Development transformation projects was to focus development, decision-making, and management structures, thereby accelerating the overall development process at Audi. “Vorsprung durch Technik and strength in innovation are two fundamental pillars of our product promise. To continue living up to our claim, we must make Audi fit for the future again,” says Gernot Döllner, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG. Over the past six months, more than 200 experts from the pertaining areas have prepared various work packages relating to the transformation, analyzed processes and structures, and developed and optimized the new collaboration model. “We have already achieved a lot since last fall as part of the Audi Agenda. The implementation of the matrix organization now marks the start of a decisive stage,” Gernot Döllner said during an information event for the more than 10,000 employees directly involved. “I would like to thank the entire project team, who, together with our more than 200 experts, resolutely addressed uncomfortable topics. We also need this openness and transparency for the reorganization of other divisions. After all, the past few months have shown that the automotive industry is facing major challenges. Vehicle development is therefore only the first step. We must and will make Audi more efficient, more competitive, and more resilient for the future.” The new organizational development guidelines, which will now be applied across all divisions, form the basis for the reorganization of other areas. The target vision: flat hierarchies and broad organizational structures, a reduction of interfaces, streamlining of committees, and the dedicated linking of responsibility and decision-making to defined roles. For the new vehicle development structure, this means a clear separation of strategy, management, and implementation. To achieve this, Audi is bundling portfolio and product strategy in an organizational unit that reports directly to Gernot Döllner as Chairman of the Board of Management. Entrepreneurial responsibility and management of vehicle development for the respective projects will be assumed by the operational product lines. In the future, this will also include direct access to all business-relevant topics and greater scope for decision-making. Technical Development is responsible for the actual development work and holds explicit responsibility for the vehicles’ features, systems, and functions. To this end, Technical Development will align itself with the respective interfaces to the vehicle projects as efficiently as possible. At the same time, it will have an increased ability to act concerning the specification, design, and integration of software and electrical/electronic platforms. The launch of the new collaboration model is planned for the beginning of 2025. Articles source: www.audi-mediacenter.com

Top marks for the Audi Q6 e-tron in terms of safety

The renowned European consumer protection organization Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) has awarded the Audi Q6 e-tron the top rating of “five stars”. The vehicle was assessed in the categories “protection of adult occupants”, “child safety”, “protection of vulnerable road users”, and “assistance systems available as standard” and achieved excellent results in all test categories. The testers from Euro NCAP rated the “protection of adult occupants” at 91 percent, which is almost full marks and offers optimal protection. For the first time in an Audi model, “post-crash functions” (including rescue data sheets for emergency services and e-call) were assessed, with the Audi Q6 e-tron scoring very well. With a rating of 92 percent in the child safety category, the Audi Q6 e-tron model family is currently “Best in Class” among all vehicles tested so far in 2023 and 2024. Features that go beyond requirements and consumer protection also contribute to this. For example, the Q6 e-tron is one of the few models in the vehicle segment to have three “i-Size seats”, two in the rear and one in the front passenger seat. “i-Size” is a European safety standard for child seats that was introduced in 2013 and ensures unrestricted compatibility between child seat and vehicle. The front passenger seat in the Q6 e-tron is equipped with automatic deactivation of the front passenger airbag for rear-facing child seats; the car virtually “comprehends” when it must turn them off. The restraint systems have been further improved for use with child seats and offer optimal protection for children of all sizes. Vehicle safety is a top priority at Audi, where 220 experts carry out more than 1,000 complex crash tests as well as around 20,000 virtual accident simulations every year and are constantly working on new safety functions. The NCAP test results apply not only to the Audi Q6 SUV e-tron presented in March, but also to the Sportback variant, which will be launched on the market in 2025, and the respective S models. On October 14, Audi will present the Sportback version of the Q6 e-tron family to the world for the first time at the 2024 Paris Motor Show. Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com