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

World premiere of the new Tayron: SUV all-rounder with up to seven seats

The new Tayron has arrived! – The large Volkswagen SUV with five or optionally seven seats is positioned between the Touareg (premium class) and the Tiguan (mid-class). Authentic: its clear and powerful SUV design. Best-in-class: the comfort levels. Superior: the high-quality feel. Generous: the space available. In the Tayron, five passengers can enjoy up to 885 litres of luggage space for travelling on holiday. A total of seven efficient drive systems will soon be available. The range includes two next-generation plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (eHybrid). They can achieve electric ranges of over 100 km and long journeys with up to 850 km between two refuelling stops. In addition, with the ability to tow up to 2.5 tonnes, the Tayron is a stylish yet well-equipped towing vehicle for trailers of all shapes and sizes. Pre-sales for the new Tayron open tomorrow on Thursday, 10 October. Thomas Schäfer, CEO of Volkswagen Passenger Cars: “The new Tayron is a bona fide Volkswagen: its quality is reflected in every detail; it is comfortable and practical for everyday life, and it is available with a wide range of drive systems. With this new Volkswagen SUV, we are further expanding our range in a growing segment and closing the gap between our best-seller, the Tiguan, and our luxury SUV, the Touareg. I am convinced that the Tayron will make its mark and be well received by our customers.” Martin Sander, Member of the Volkswagen Brand Board of Management responsible for Sales, Marketing and After Sales: “The new Tayron combines everything that a Volkswagen stands for: versatility, comfort and new technology. With up to seven seats, a premium interior, generous storage space and innovative drive systems, the large SUV is the ideal companion for families and adventurers alike. At the same time, we are making a clear statement with the Tayron: practicality and efficiency complement one another perfectly – for a driving experience that is up to our high standards.” Kai Grünitz, Member of the Volkswagen Brand Board of Management responsible for Development: “Following on from the Tiguan and Passat, the Tayron benefits from the advantages of the MQB evo, too. With numerous technology modules, it impresses with a new generation of plug-in hybrid drives with electric ranges of over 100 kilometres, premium-level interior quality, intuitive infotainment system and the latest generation of driver assist systems including voice control with ChatGPT.” Powerful exterior design and a premium feel inside. Measuring around 4.8 m in length, the Tayron is characterised by a clear, striking SUV design. At the front, LED headlights and the standard illuminated Volkswagen badge create an unmistakeable light signature as night falls. The same applies to the rear with its full-length LED crossbar and illuminated Volkswagen logo. Sharply drawn lines emphasise the premium feel of the Tayron and its elongated silhouette. This approach is also reflected in the interior: here, the design03 is dominated by surfaces with a pleasant feel and, depending on equipment, elegant materials such as ArtVelours Eco03 (microfibre) and authentic open-pore wood03 as well as illuminated decorative trim. Extensive standard equipment. The SUV’s entry-level package is known as the Life02 equipment line, which is followed by two top-of-the-range packages: Elegance0204 and R-Line02. As the entry-level version, the Life version of the Tayron already offers a wide range of standard equipment. This includes nine airbags, a three-zone automatic air conditioner, 10-colour background lighting, a multifunctional driving experience control (controls the driving profiles – including all-wheel drive profiles for 4MOTION models –, audio volume and activation of Atmospheres as pre-programmed lighting and audio moods), an infotainment system (screen measures 32 centimetres across the diagonal) with an activatable navigation function and App-Connect Wireless (for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), digital instruments, LED headlights including automatic main beam control (Light Assist), illuminated Volkswagen logo at the front and rear, 3D tail light clusters, sun blinds in the rear doors, as well as 17-inch alloy wheels. Large range of assist systems. The Tayron Life’s standard assist systems include adaptive cruise control (ACC), the oncoming vehicle braking when turning function, lane change system (Side Assist), lane keeping system (Lane Assist), an automatic emergency braking system including pedestrian and cyclist monitoring (Front Assist), Park Assist Plus, rear view camera system, dynamic road sign display and the new exit warning system. As an extension of the lane change system, the latter can – within the system limits – prevent one of the doors from being opened if another road user approaches from behind. Attractive equipment options. Optional highlights include systems such as the adaptive chassis control DCC Pro, IQ.LIGHT HD matrix headlights with interactive lighting functions and Travel Assist for assisted longitudinal and lateral guidance. Also available: the IDA voice assistant with ChatGPT integration (in conjunction with the optional Discover infotainment package), a tilting and sliding panoramic sunroof, a 700-watt sound system from Harman-Kardon, leather upholstery with electrically adjustable seats including a massage and ventilation function, plus an electrically activated child safety lock for the rear. Mild hybrid, plug-in hybrid, petrol or diesel. After launching all versions with a mild hybrid drive (eTSI)01, Volkswagen will also offer the Tayron with two plug-in hybrid drives (eHybrid), two turbocharged petrol engines (TSI) and two turbocharged diesel engines (TDI). All drive systems are coupled to an automatic direct shift gearbox (DSG). Even the entry-level eTSI01 engine with an output of 110 kW (150 PS) is a high-tech drive system (mild hybrid with 48 V technology). However, the advantages of the electric and petrol drives are combined in the two innovative plug-in hybrid models. They deliver a system power of 150 kW (204 PS)05 and 200 kW (272 PS)06. Thanks to the 19.7 kWh (net) battery, both Tayron eHybrids can achieve electric ranges of over 100 km. Their batteries can be charged with up to 11 kW at an AC wallbox or AC charging station and with up to 50 kW07 at DC quick-charging stations. The largest TDI with 142 kW (193 PS)08 is also very efficient and is paired with 4MOTION all-wheel drive as standard. All Tayron 4MOTION models are designed for maximum trailer weights of up to 2,500 kg (braked, 12 per cent gradient). Thanks to the Trailer Assist manoeuvring assist system, which comes as standard in conjunction with the towing bracket (folding), even large horse boxes or boat trailers are easy to handle. Four drive systems available for the start of pre-sales. Four drive system options will be available when pre-sales start tomorrow. The entry-level version is the 110 kW eTSI01 in the Life specification package, which is available from 45,475 euros. In addition, the two eHybrid versions and the most powerful TDI with 142 kW08 are also available to order. Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com 01. Tayron 1.5 eTSI, 110 kW (150 PS) | 7-speed direct shift gearbox DSG | Petrol | Combined consumption: 6.9-6.2 l/100km l Combined CO₂ emissions: 156-142 g/km | CO₂ class: E 02. All prices (incl. 19% value added tax) and equipment details apply to the model range available in Germany. There may be differences for other countries 03. Optional equipment 04. The Elegance specification package will only be available at a later date 05. Tayron eHybrid, 110 kW (150 PS) / 85 kW (115 PS) | 6-speed direct shift gearbox DSG | Combined energy consumption: 18.4-17.0 kWh/100 km | Emissions: 9-12 g/km | CO₂ class: B | Combined consumption with discharged battery: 6.3–5.6 l/100km | CO₂ class: D 06. Tayron eHybrid, 130 kW (177 PS) / 85 kW (115 PS) | 6-speed direct shift gearbox DSG | Combined energy consumption: 18.7-17.7 kWh/100 km | Emissions: 10–12 g/km | CO₂ class: B | Combined consumption with discharged battery: 6.2-5.8 l/100km | CO₂ class: D 07. The value for the customer-relevant charging process is 40 kW, determined in accordance with DIN 70080. However, charging capacities of up to 50 kW can be achieved under ideal conditions (e.g. very low charge level or high battery temperatures) 08. Tayron 2.0 TDI 4MOTION, 142 kW (193 PS) | 7-speed direct shift gearbox DSG | Diesel | Combined consumption: 6.8-6.1 l/100km | Combined CO₂ emissions: 180-162 g/km | CO₂ class: F

All-electric ID.7 Pro S covers 794 km on one battery charge

Driving the new all-electric ID.7 Pro S, the Volkswagen Team Switzerland headed by project lead Felix Egolf, an expert in long-distance driving with electric cars, successfully covered a total of 794 kilometres with a single battery charge in a net driving time of 15 hours and 42 minutes. This significantly exceeded the model’s maximum WLTP range (combined) of up to 709 kilometres. The comfortable touring saloon was driven on public roads and in normal traffic flow throughout the entire daytime journey. The vehicle was driven on an approximately 81-kilometre circuit in the Zug metropolitan area south of Zurich. The route profile was in line with everyday driving and included main through-roads, motorway sections and country roads with hilly transitions. Eight different drivers covered a total of 794 kilometres in two consecutive days on just one battery charge. This is roughly equivalent to the route from Basel to Emden in northern Germany, where the ID.7 is built. The average consumption was an exceptionally low 10.3 kWh/100 km. In comparison, the lowest WLTP value of the model is 13.6. Converted to diesel, the average consumption achieved corresponds to only about 1.1 litres per 100 km. The range of 794 km was driven during the day in normal traffic flow in the middle of last week – with an average speed of 51 km/h. The remaining range displayed was two kilometres. Another interesting detail: the model driven was not the most range-favourable equipment variant of the ID.7 Pro S. According to WLTP calculations, the vehicle, which features optional equipment such as the Comfort package, IQ.DRIVE assist systems package, Plus exterior package and a heat pump, would have reached a WLTP range of 700 km01. Driving as far as possible with as little consumption as possible. Extremely energy-efficient driving is Felix Egolf’s field of expertise, he is a so-called hypermiler. In 2020 and 2021, the Swiss driver completed two record-breaking drives in the ID.3: once, he significantly exceeded the theoretical range of the ID.31st from Zwickau in Saxony (Germany) to Schaffhausen (Switzerland) by covering 531 km. In the second record attempt with a larger battery, the ID.3 Pro S05 managed a total of 602 km on a single charge – across 15 Alpine passes and with 13,000 metres of altitude. ID.7 Pro S – efficiency champion in the model series. Thanks to its new efficiency drive and excellent aerodynamics (drag coefficient of 0.23 depending on equipment), the ID.7 Pro S is economical on the road. Depending on optional equipment, a combined WLTP consumption of 16.2 to 13.6 kWh/100 km was determined for the ID.7 Pro S. With the most range-favourable equipment, the WLTP range is up to 709 km. The charging times are short: In 10 minutes – the time needed for a coffee break – energy for approx. 244 km flows into the battery at 200 kW06 charging power; in about 26 minutes it is charged again from 10 to 80 percent. The optional Electric Vehicle Route Planner in the ID.7 is also helpful – this calculates an optimum route taking into account the current battery charge and the available charging stations along the route. It shows the driver the best charging points and plans the necessary charging stops to make the journey efficient. It also takes real-time traffic data into account to find the fastest and most convenient route. Article source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com 01. ID.7 Pro S with equipment - Combined power consumption 13.8 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions 0 g/km; CO₂ class: A 02. ID.7 Pro S - Combined power consumption 16.2-13.6 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions 0 g/km; CO₂ class: A 03. Range determined on the rolling road test bed in accordance with the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP) in the most range-favourable equipment variant. The actual WLTP range values may differ depending on the equipment. The actual range achieved under real conditions varies depending on the driving style, speed, use of comfort features or auxiliary equipment, outside temperature, number of passengers/load, topography and the ageing and wear process of the battery 04. The stated net battery energy content is a typical battery value, regardless of the vehicle. It is determined with a constant load profile under defined boundary conditions and takes into account the full range of battery energy content that can be used in the vehicle until the vehicle comes to a standstill. The actual discharge energy may differ from this because it depends on the specific driving profile and the battery temperature. The homologated range specification according to the WLTP legislation corresponds to the usable discharge energy for a new vehicle 05. ID.3 Pro S - Combined power consumption 16.4–15.6 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions 0 g/km; CO₂ class: A 06. Maximum possible charging power. Different charging stations can differ in their charging behaviour for the same kW output. In addition to the kW output of the charging station, the maximum charging current also has an influence on the amount of energy flowing. Furthermore, the ambient and battery temperature as well as the state of charge influence the maximum possible charging power. The specified maximum charging power is determined under WLTP conditions at a temperature of approx. 23° C and a state of charge of five percent or more. If these variables change, the charging power may also deviate from the standard specification 07. ID.7 Pro S - Combined power consumption 16.2-13.6 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 0 g/km; CO2 class: A

Autostadt at the Edelweiß-Bergpreis hill climb race: historic Golf and Scirocco in the spotlight

Volkswagen Classic and the Autostadt in Wolfsburg are turning the spotlight on two milestones in automotive history at the International Edelweiß-Bergpreis Rossfeld Berchtesgaden. To mark the 50th anniversary of the Volkswagen Golf and the Scirocco, the two teams will have several outstanding models from these iconic product lines on the starting line. The historic hill climb race will be held on 28 and 29 September 2024, featuring classic motorsport action in the heart of the Alps. Volkswagen is celebrating 50 years of the Golf this year and will have two very special classic models on the starting line to mark the anniversary: the Golf I GTI Group 4 ‘Pierburg’ and the Golf II GTI Group A ‘World Champion’. Both vehicles will be driven by motorsport professional and Volkswagen test driver Benny Leuchter. The Autostadt team is bringing the legendary VW Scirocco Group 2 by Oettinger to Berchtesgaden, together with a rare 139 PS Rally Beetle 1302. The Golf I GTI Group 4 ‘Pierburg’ The original Golf GTI ‘Pierburg’ – named after the main sponsor – was equipped with a modified GTI engine with a two-valve head. In 1980, the driver team of Per Eklund and Hans Sylvan achieved countless top rally results in Group 2 with this Golf GTI. Starting from the second race in the 1981 German Rally Championship, a 16V cylinder head from Oettinger compliant with the Group 4 regulations could be used. This Oettinger cylinder head is equipped on the GTI “Pierburg”. The car used in the hill climb race was rebuilt true to the original with a body in white in 2011. It made its first successful rally appearance in San Marino the same year with its legendary original crew of Per Eklund and Hans Sylvan. The Golf II GTI Group A ‘World Champion’ The Golf GTI used in the 1986 FIA Rally World Championship was one of the most legendary vehicles to race during the Volkswagen Motorsport era. Taking a brief look back: Volkswagen impressed on the international rally scene with this second-generation Golf GTI. In 1986, the driver team of Kenneth Eriksson (Sweden) and co-driver Peter Diekmann (Germany) secured the title with the Golf GTI in the inaugural World Rally Championship for Group A vehicles. In accordance with the event regulations, Eriksson/Diekmann’s GTI underwent extensive technical modifications at Volkswagen Motorsport in Hanover. These changes included reducing the weight to 880 kg and increasing the output to 176 PS. The GTI was carefully restored in 2009. Since then, it has taken part in historic racing events such as the Edelweiß-Bergpreis. The Scirocco Group 2 by Oettinger The legendary VW Scirocco Group 2 by Oettinger from the Autostadt collection is the only original vehicle left from the racing era of the late 1970s, when the Scirocco dominated the race track in the 1.6-litre class against competition from BMW and Ford. The Scirocco Series 1 was the first car based on a series production model from Volkswagen to achieve success on the race track. The Scirocco and Formula Vee mark the start of Volkswagen’s official commitment to motorsport. The four-cylinder in-line engine delivers 170 PS at 7,000 rpm and reaches a top speed of 200 km/h. Volkswagen Rally Beetle 1302 The Autostadt’s line-up is complemented by the 139 PS Rally Beetle 1302 (1970), which is also part of the Autostadt ZeitHaus collection. With the four-cylinder boxer engine at the rear, individual wheel suspension with suspension struts at the front and torsion bar suspension at the rear, the Rally Beetle reached a top speed of 170 km/h. Note for the editorial teams: Up-to-date pictures of the four Volkswagen models at the 2024 Edelweiß-Bergpreis Rossfeld Berchtesgaden are expected to be available in the Volkswagen Newsroom from Sunday, 29 September. Article source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com

Škoda Auto: Influential engineer and manager Petr Hrdlička celebrates 90th birthday

The life story of Petr Hrdlička, who celebrates his 90th birthday today, is closely tied to the Czech automotive industry and the Škoda brand. Thanks to his expertise in modern car design, he became the Director of Technical Development, where his main task was to develop the Škoda Favorit model. He also left his mark on the Škoda 1000 MB and the evolution of rear-engine Škoda cars in the 1980s. A successful career despite the odds Petr Hrdlička was born on 12 September 1934 in Prague. Due to his father’s wartime engagement as the Director of the car company, personnel assessments initially prevented him from being admitted to higher education, prompting him to join the Institute for Motor Vehicle Research (ÚVMV). However, thanks to his skill and determination, along with a favourable turn of events, he was finally accepted into the Czech Technical University in Prague (ČVUT) in 1954. After graduating, Petr Hrdlička joined Škoda Auto in 1959, starting in the Tooling Design department. A broad impact on the Škoda 743 and Škoda 1000 MB Specialising in hypoid gears, Petr Hrdlička was tasked in 1959 with calculating the parameters for the rear axle gears of the upcoming Škoda 1000 MB model. His work also influenced the modification of other vehicle components to ensure their durability. In the latter half of the 1970s, Petr Hrdlička led the Scientific and Technical Development unit at ÚVMV, where he established an Innovations department focused on modernising the Škoda 742 and 743 models. In particular, he contributed to the development of the trailing rear axle, as well as the implementation of rack-and-pinion steering, a more powerful braking system, and the modification of the four-speed transmission to five-speed, aimed at reducing noise and fuel consumption. Petr Hrdlička’s most notable project: Developing the Škoda Favorit Petr Hrdlička is most closely associated with the Škoda Favorit model, whose success was crucial for the company. It marked the long-awaited transition to a modern design with a front-engine and front-wheel drive. As Director of Technical Development, Petr Hrdlička worked in Mladá Boleslav for seven years, from March 1983 to March 1990. At the outset, he was instrumental in securing a contract with designer Giuseppe “Nuccio” Bertone, and through his technical expertise, he influenced the development, design, and potential supplier decisions for all vehicle components, advocating for the introduction of numerous modern technologies by subcontractors. Petr Hrdlička’s team completed the Škoda Favorit project in record time; the all-new car made its public debut as early as September 1987. With its modern design and new technologies, the model significantly contributed to the modernisation of the entire automotive industry in then-Czechoslovakia and laid the foundation for Volkswagen Group’s decision to acquire the Czech car manufacturer in 1991. After his departure from Škoda Auto in 1990, Petr Hrdlička reconnected with it professionally in the mid-1990s as an external consultant, maintaining close ties primarily with the Development department. The technical legacy of the Hrdlička family The Hrdlička family’s association with the Mladá Boleslav-based car manufacturer began in January 1929, when Petr Hrdlička’s father Karel Hrdlička (1 March 1888 – 7 December 1979,) became Deputy Plant Manager, and shortly after, the Director of the car company, then officially named the Joint-Stock Company for the Automotive Industry (ASAP). He held this position until 1942 when his involvement ended due to wartime pressures. During his tenure, Škoda advanced to first place among strong domestic competitors. Moreover, Škoda established model series such as the Popular, Rapid, Favorit, and Superb thanks to the introduction of mass production in Czechoslovakia in a newly-built modern factory. The family tradition continues with Petr Hrdlička’s son, Martin (*1969), who began his professional career with the Škoda brand in January 1993. A distinguished technician in his own right, he currently holds the position of the Head of Chassis and Powertrain Development. Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com