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

Hot and cold one-off: Premiere for the ID.3 GTX FIRE+ICE at the ID. Meeting

Volkswagen presents the ID.3 GTX02 FIRE+ICE at the ID. Meeting in Locarno, Switzerland. Developed in collaboration with BOGNER, the Munich-based luxury sports fashion brand, the car is reminiscent of the legendary Golf Fire and Ice03, which became a surprise success in the 1990s and has since achieved cult status among fans. With an exclusive 3-layer paint finish with glass bead effect and numerous details in the interior, the vehicle pays tribute to its predecessor and transfers its design idea into the all-electric modern age. Andreas Mindt, Head of Design at Volkswagen: “With the ID.3 GTX FIRE+ICE, we are emphasizing how highly emotional our sporty top model is. Our design team had incredible fun reinterpreting the iconic 90s design and thus developing it further.” Close co-operation with BOGNER. The idea for the vehicle came from employees in Technical Development. As with the Golf Mk2 Fire and Ice, the designers from Volkswagen and BOGNER worked together. Tom Becker, Director of BOGNER FIRE+ICE: “The combination of our performance brand FIRE+ICE with the sporty ID.3 GTX is BOGNER's modern interpretation of the iconic Golf Fire and Ice. The special thing is that we were able to integrate many of our original materials and accessories into the interior of the vehicle.” Individualised exterior design. The ID.3 GTX FIRE+ICE stands out above all thanks to its exclusive 3-layer paint finish with glass bead effect. The Electric Violet pearl effect colour was specially developed for this unique model and is a reinterpretation of the Golf Mk2 Fire and Ice exterior paint. In addition to the dark blue base coat, the three-coat paint contains special glass beads, which create a special colour effect and extraordinary character. Depending on the incidence of light, the colour changes from dark blue to violet or even black. The roof frame strip adds a sporty accent with the powerful red anodised paint Flaming Red. The sides of the vehicle are dominated by foiling with the geometric FIRE+ICE pattern in transparent matt. Another special feature are the 21-inch rims, which emphasise the dynamic appearance with a blue anodised paint finish with a glossy twist. The original FIRE+ICE logo from the 1990s adorns the B-pillar and the roof edge spoiler. Surprising details in the interior. The interior is divided into two colours. While the accent colour Flaming Red for ‘FIRE’ predominates on the seats and seams on the driver's side and the seat behind, the seats and interior on the passenger side are characterised by design elements in ice blue (‘ICE’). The stainless steel accelerator pedals have a special ‘FIRE+ICE’ design instead of the Play/Pause design known from the ID. family. Accelerate with the ‘FIRE’ logo - brake by stepping on the ‘ICE’ logo. The upper part of the instrument panel and the floor mats have also been customised with a laser-engraved ‘FIRE+ICE’ pattern. Inspired by the BOGNER FIRE+ICE collections, numerous colours, fabrics and elements were used. The seats are quilted and reflect the design of the current FIRE+ICE down jackets, including the iconic B-zippers. If you open these on the seats, the original FIRE+ICE fabric from the 1990s appears underneath. Webbing from bags from the FIRE+ICE collection was also used behind the front seats. ID.3 GTX Performance - powerful motor, large battery and high charging capacity. The FIRE+ICE version uses the most powerful Volkswagen electric motor to date in the ID.3 GTX Performance with an output of 240 kW (326 PS) and a maximum torque of 545 Nm. This electric motor accelerates to 100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited at 200 km/h. The GTX-specific chassis, which is equipped with stronger stabilisers and Sport DCC adaptive chassis control, is also tuned to the very high performance of the drive system. The electrical energy is supplied by a 79 kWh lithium-ion battery (net), which can be charged at DC fast-charging stations with up to 185 kW04. With this power, the battery can be recharged from 10 to 80 per cent in around 26 minutes. The combined WLTP range is up to 601 km05. A look back to the 1990s. With the “Fire and Ice” special model, Volkswagen presented an exclusive version of the Golf Mk2 in 1990 that was both sporty and comfortable. Its design was created in collaboration with fashion designer and director Willy Bogner. With its extravagant appearance - a dark violet pearl effect paint finish, alloy wheels, front spoiler and body extensions - and the powerful engine with between 90 and 160 PS, the Golf Fire and Ice, especially the GTI version, quickly became a sought-after rarity. It became a surprise success. A total of 16,700 units were sold. Originally, only 10,000 units were planned. Article source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com 02. ID.3 GTX Performance - Combined power consumption 16.5-14.7 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions 0 g/km; CO₂ class: A 03. Golf Mk2 Fire and Ice - The vehicle is no longer offered for sale 04. Maximum possible charging capacity. The charging behaviour of different charging stations can differ, even if their kW capacity is the same. In addition to a charging station’s kW output, the maximum charge current also influences the amount of energy that flows. Furthermore, the ambient temperature, battery temperature and charge level influence the maximum possible charging capacity. The specified maximum charging capacity is calculated under WLTP conditions at a temperature of approx. 23 °C and a charge level from five per cent. If these variables change, the charging capacity may deviate from the specified standard value 05. 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

Leather from industrial hemp: innovative and sustainable material for future car interiors

Volkswagen has entered into a cooperation with the German start-up Revoltech GmbH from Darmstadt. The aim is to research and develop sustainable materials based on industrial hemp. These could be used as a sustainable surface material in Volkswagen models from 2028. The material made from 100% bio-based hemp uses residues of the regional hemp industry. It can be produced on existing industrial plants and recycled or composted at the end of its service life in an automobile. The first presentations of the innovative material have already received a very positive response and feedback from customers. Kai Grünitz, Volkswagen Brand Board Member for Technical Development: “In our search for new materials, we are very open to new ideas from many different industries. At Technical Development, we place a strong focus on innovative, creative and sustainable solutions for holistic, resource-saving vehicle development.” Andreas Walingen, Head of Strategy at the Volkswagen brand: “The sustainable use of resources is a key pillar in our ACCELERATE strategy and is therefore firmly anchored in our mindset and our actions. Our clear goal is to fuse customer wishes, sustainability requirements and corporate interests.” He added that the cooperation between Revoltech and Volkswagen was a good example of the benefits for start-ups and established companies to be gained from the targeted combination of their respective strengths – with the goal of getting new features ready for use in automobiles as swiftly as possible. Lucas Fuhrmann, CEO and co-founder Revoltech GmbH: “Our innovative surface material called LOVR™ that we are developing and testing for the automotive industry in cooperation with Volkswagen is scalable and groundbreaking for sustainability in the automotive sector.” 100% bio-based leather alternative from industrial hemp Together with the Revoltech GmbH start-up, the predevelopment team at the Volkswagen brand is working on a material innovation as a substitute for imitation leather. This material made from what is known as industrial hemp cultivated for the food industry is an all-natural, 100% biological single-layer surface material called LOVRTM (the letters stand for leather-free, oil-free, vegan and residue-based) that is being developed specifically with the automotive industry in mind. The hemp fibers and a fully bio-based adhesive are combined using a special technology and processed to become a surface material. This truly circular material is sourced from regional hemp fields and is fully recyclable or compostable once it has reached the end of its service life. It is produced from residues of the hemp industry that have no further use. In addition, it can be manufactured on existing industrial plants, thus enabling swift scalability – and is therefore also suitable for use in large-scale production. Volkswagen’s Materials Technology, Design, and Components Development departments, Volkswagen Group Innovation and the Revoltech GmbH start-up are bundling their know-how to include as many perspectives as possible in the development work. Potential applications are being identified in collaboration with Components Development. Possible use in vehicle projects from 2028 is envisaged. The material has received very positive feedback in customer surveys. Article source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com

New sporty models now available: Volkswagen starts pre-sales of Golf GTI Clubsport and Golf R models

The sportiest Golf models from Volkswagen can now be ordered in a new look and with a host of additional features. Customers can choose between the front-wheel drive Golf GTI Clubsport and three all-wheel drive versions: the classic Golf R, the spacious Golf R Variant and the exclusive Golf R Black Edition special model. All four models offer the perfect mix of extreme sportiness, comfort and everyday usability. The Golf GTI Clubsport is available from 48,075 euros in Germany and the Golf R from 53,795 euros. The Golf R Variant can be configured and ordered from 55,065 euros. Prices for the exclusive Golf R Black Edition, which is completely in black, start from 58,440 euros. The new models are based on the eighth generation of the Golf, which was significantly upgraded this year. The new Performance versions feature a sharpened and distinctive exterior design (including an illuminated VW badge at the front) as well as an enhanced interior. They additionally offer an intuitive operating concept (including ChatGPT), powerful drive systems with impressive performance values and high-end sports suspension. Optional equipment packages05 are available for motorsport enthusiasts that allow special driving profiles to be selected for the race track and the top speed to be increased, for example, or that offer features such as GPS lap timer and G-meter. Most powerful GTI – with front differential lock as standard. The new Golf GTI Clubsport was unveiled a few weeks ago as part of the legendary 24-hour race at the Nürburgring. This clearly shows that this Volkswagen is also at home on the race track. Its turbocharged engine delivers a torque of 400 Nm and an output of 221 kW (300 PS), and this power is transferred to the road by the electronically controlled front differential lock equipped as standard. The top speed of the most powerful GTI is electronically limited to 250 km/h. However, this limit can be lifted with the Race package05 – which raises the top speed to 267 km/h. A large roof spoiler at the rear ensures maximum downforce. In addition, the Golf GTI Clubsport comes as standard with the selectable Special driving mode, which ensures optimum performance on the Nürburgring and optimises the engine, gearbox and suspension for fast laps on the Nordschleife. Golf R models with R-Performance torque vectoring. The all-wheel-drive models Golf R, Golf R Variant and the Black Edition special model impress with optimised driving dynamics, exclusive standard equipment and an output of 245 kW (333 PS). This is an increase of 10 kW (14 PS) compared with the predecessors. The times for the classic sprint from 0 to 100 km/h have thus been shortened to 4.6 and 4.8 seconds (Variant) respectively. The top speed of 250 km/h can be boosted to 270 km/h with the R-Performance package05. This makes these Golf R versions the world’s fastest Volkswagen production models, alongside the Arteon R Shooting Brake06. Dynamic Chassis Control for driving comfort and dynamics. In addition to power and rich sound, the Golf R models offer maximum performance – and also convey a genuine motorsport feeling. Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) – fitted as standard in vehicles sold in Germany – is a technology that continuously reacts to the road surface and driving situation, while taking account of various elements including steering, braking and acceleration manoeuvres. DCC therefore always provides the highest level of driving comfort and optimum driving dynamics. Up to seven driving profiles are available to choose from. With the Special driving profile, which is specially designed for driving on the Nürburgring Nordschleife, the DCC is also adapted to the conditions of this legendary race circuit. All those who want to drift on secured terrain can activate the special Drift mode. The exclusive Black Edition special model. Elegant, sporty and unmistakeable: as the name suggests, the new Golf R Black Edition comes with a consistently black design, including darkened headlights, Volkswagen badges and R logos, black exhaust tailpipe trims and a dark wheel profile. The model is equipped as standard with the R-Performance package and IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights. A larger roof spoiler through which the air flow is routed, providing additional downforce. Also available for the Golf GTI Clubsport, Golf R, Golf R Variant and Golf R Black Edition: the optional titanium exhaust system from Akrapovič, which ensures an even more individual sound. Article source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com 01. Golf GTI Clubsport - combined energy consumption: 7.8-7.5 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 178-171 g/km; CO₂ class(es): G-F. Information on consumption, CO2-emissions and CO2 classes in ranges depending on the selected vehicle equipment 02. Golf R - combined energy consumption: 8.5-8.1 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 193-184 g/km; CO₂ class(es): G. Information on consumption, CO2-emissions and CO2 classes in ranges depending on the selected vehicle equipment 03. Golf R Variant - combined energy consumption: 8.5-8.2 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 193-185 g/km; CO₂ class(es): G. Information on consumption, CO2-emissions and CO2 classes in ranges depending on the selected vehicle equipment 04. Golf R Black Edition - combined energy consumption: 8.5- 8.2 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 193-186 g/km; CO₂ class(es): G. Information on consumption, CO2-emissions and CO2 classes in ranges depending on the selected vehicle equipment 05. Optional equipment 06. Arteon R Shooting Brake - combined energy consumption: 8.9-8.6 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions 203-195 g/km; CO₂ class: G. Where ranges are stated, the values for consumption and CO₂ emissions depend on the selected vehicle equipment 07. Golf GTI - combined energy consumption 7.3-7.1 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions 167-162 g/km; CO₂ class: F. Information on consumption, CO₂ emissions and CO₂ classes in ranges depending on the selected vehicle equipment