New MyŠkoda app combining several new functions in one application for enhanced customer experience

The refreshed MyŠkoda app now serves as a unified platform for owners of all current compatible Škoda models. It offers seamless vehicle access and introduces a wide range of new and further improved features, including smart services like Pay to Park and Pay to Fuel as well as Track & Explore and a loyalty program for users, initially rolled out in selected markets. Moreover, the integration of Powerpass into the app streamlines the charging process for electric Škoda vehicles, consolidating these services into one convenient, intuitively designed app. “At Škoda Auto, we put our customers first and strive to make their journey as seamless as possible. Listening to our customers’ feedback is therefore essential to enhance their user experience inside and outside the car through innovative new features. We are thus enhancing the functionality of the MyŠkoda app, migrating all features to one platform. With the integration of Powerpass, EV and Plug-in hybrid customers have direct access with our new app to more than 660,000 charging points across Europe. And with smart services like Pay to Park and Pay to Fuel, we are further facilitating everyday life of many more customers.” Martin Jahn, Škoda Auto Board Member for Sales and Marketing New features, easier to use and compatible with all current models With the updated MyŠkoda app, customers benefit from several new features bundled in one application as well as from a more intuitive design. Customers of all-electric, plug-in hybrid and conventional power train models receive access to new features that make their everyday life easier, for example through smart services like Pay to Park and Pay to Fuel. Introducing a completely new look, the updated app features a brand-new home screen, revised graphics and an informative widget, which makes the app even easier to use. All current and upcoming models support the newest update, including those with combustion engines and plug-in hybrid powertrains manufactured after July 2020. Users who previously used the MyŠkoda Essentials app can now make transition to the new MyŠkoda app, keeping their existing Škoda account. Meanwhile, owners of Škoda models produced until July 2020 will continue to use the MyŠkoda Essentials app for the time being. A wide range of new features The updated MyŠkoda app integrates numerous digital services from Škoda Connect and now covers additional parts along the customer journey. Users anticipating delivery of their Škoda car will appreciate the new Track & Explore function, which offers real-time information on the vehicle’s production status. Additionally, they can review their vehicle’s configuration at any time. For those eager to explore their new vehicle’s functionalities, the app provides access to how-to videos in the UK, Ireland, France and Spain. The improved MyŠkoda app now also includes new smart services for customers, who already received their car. With Pay to Park, the app simplifies the process of recognising of parking zones and paying for parking in various cities across Europe. Pay to Fuel is another new smart feature that enables automatic payments at selected fuelling stations, skipping the queue at the cashier. Integration of Powerpass: More than 660,000 charging points in one app For drivers of the Enyaq and PHEV models, the refreshed MyŠkoda app provides additional new features. Most important, Powerpass charging is now integrated directly in the MyŠkoda app – making the old app obsolete. The new feature is granting access to more than 660,000 charging points across Europe thanks to partnerships with more than 870 providers. It also simplifies the management of home charging solutions, such as the Škoda iV Chargers. On top of that, the app offers the possibility to manage charging plans, use the Plug & Charge function, and view the charging history. Current Powerpass users can download or update the MyŠkoda app, navigate to the Powerpass section and confirm their Škoda ID connection for a fully automatic data transfer. Checking the Škoda Enyaq’s charging status from home or activating the Climate Control before setting off are just two further examples of the extended functionality of the MyŠkoda app. A more intuitive design and additional entertainment options The app’s new design further improves the user experience providing a design comparable to a simplified home screen. Additionally, essential information – like the charging or vehicle status – can now be displayed through widgets on the home screen, enhancing accessibility. The new MyŠkoda app also adds convenience for guest users, allowing, for example, the remote control of charging and air conditioning for their partner’s Enyaq. In addition, the new MyŠkoda app offers a dynamic news feed featuring visuals and articles from the world of Škoda. Moreover, a loyalty programme has been introduced in the UK, Ireland, France, and Spain, allowing users to earn points by completing various challenges. These points can be redeemed for Škoda merchandise. Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

Update for the Audi Q2 and SQ2: New infotainment system and Audi virtual cockpit

More modern, bigger, more digital: In mid-2024, all model variants of the Q2, including the SQ21, will receive a significant upgrade. The infotainment system for the compact SUV is receiving a comprehensive technology update. Effective immediately, every new Audi Q2 and SQ21 will come with the Audi virtual cockpit and an 8.8-inch touchscreen as the central control unit for the MMI. A convenient storage compartment replaces the previous rotary/push button. The base price for the Audi Q2 is 28,600 euros. The SQ21 starting at 50,500 euros. Audi is systematically advancing its models: Effective immediately, the Audi Q2 and SQ21 – the convenient and popular compact SUV – is receiving a comprehensive technology upgrade of its infotainment system. All models will now be delivered with new software and hardware. The innovations now included as standard comprise a high-resolution 8.8-inch MMI touch display, the Audi virtual cockpit with a 12.3-inch instrument display and the three-spoke multifunction steering wheel. Additional safety features, such as traffic sign recognition, lane departure warning, and rear park assist, further expand the range of standard equipment. A perfect overview: The Audi virtual cockpit for all models Effective immediately, all Audi Q2 models, including the SQ21, come standard with the Audi virtual cockpit. In contrast to traditional dial instruments, the fully digital cockpit features a bright full HD display (1,920 x 720 pixels) and a wide range of customization options. These include traditional speed, RPM values, and navigation or media information. The view button on the multifunction steering wheel lets the driver toggle between the different views. Several designs are available depending on the chosen equipment level, including the Sport design with red accents or the Dynamic design with opposing scales. Drivers can also toggle between two basic display layouts: In one layout, the speedometer and tachometer are about the same size as analog dials and integrate media or navigation information into the central display area. In the second layout, the size of the speedometer and tachometer are reduced without compromising readability. This layout also features an almost full-screen navigation map with integrated route planning. Its large size makes the map much easier for the driver to read. As an additional option, the Audi virtual cockpit is also available with Audi’s new theme worlds. Customers who choose this feature can toggle between the classic and highly dynamic views. The Audi SQ21 also comes standard with a central, bar-shaped rev counter in a particularly sporty design. Intuitive: Operation via 8.8-inch touchscreen and voice control Now 8.8 inches in size, the new MMI touch display is the central control unit of the state-of-the-art infotainment system. The display is bright and highly responsive, with a resolution of 1,270 x 720 pixels. In addition to touch control, the system can also be controlled via natural speech, enabling instant responses to complex commands or questions. A convenient storage compartment now replaces the previous rotary/push button in the center console. The compact SUV is intelligently connected: The standard equipment includes the MMI Radio, which features a DAB tuner, two data-capable USB-C ports in the front center console, emergency call functions, and several Audi connect services, such as remote control for viewing and controlling certain vehicle information including unlocking the doors or checking the fuel level. As an additional feature, the MMI Navigation preparation package includes the Audi smartphone interface, which allows customers to enable and activate numerous Audi connect services as well as the intelligent navigation system. MMI Navigation plus, the largest package, includes Audi connect services as well as navigation services with high-resolution satellite maps and other services, e.g. from Google. With MMI Navigation plus, the navigation map can be projected as a large image in the Audi virtual cockpit, making it easy to read alongside all relevant driving data. One update every month keeps the maps saved in the system up to date for 36 months after purchase. The package also includes additional online services, such as traffic information plus lane-specific details on the traffic flow, on-street parking information, online radio, and online music identification. The Audi connect system always uses a permanently installed e-SIM (embedded SIM). High-end options round out the infotainment package: The Sonos premium sound system with 13 speakers and a subwoofer delivers intensive, crystal-clear, and powerful sound. The Audi phone box makes it easy for customers to integrate their smartphone and numerous functions into the MMI while simultaneously boosting the mobile phone signal (5G/LTE) to ensure the best possible voice quality at all times. Market launch in the first half of 2024; prices starting at 28,600 euros The upgraded Audi Q2 will be launched in the first half of 2024. In Germany, the initial price is 28,600 euros. The SQ21 starts at 50,500 euros. Audi will continue to build the cars at the main plant in Ingolstadt. 1. Audi SQ2: Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 8,6-8,4 (27.4-28.0 US mpg); combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 196-190 (315.4-305.8); CO2 class: G Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com

World premiere of the new ID. Buzz GTX with 4MOTION all-wheel drive

Volkswagen presents the new ID. Buzz GTX: The electric Bulli equipped with a powerful performance drive system will in future be available with two wheelbases, two battery sizes and a choice of 5-, 6- or 7-seater. It also comes with standard 4MOTION all-wheel drive for optimum pulling power and traction in every driving situation. In addition, both GTX models share an individualized design. Pre-sales of the ID. Buzz GTX will start in the summer. This year, Volkswagen is once again expanding its range of sporty GTX models alongside the ID.3, ID.4, ID.5 and ID.7 Tourer. Electric all-wheel drive: The new ID. Buzz GTX is equipped with two electric motors – both together form all-wheel drive. The top speed of the GTX models is electronically limited to 160 km/h. The electric motors are supplied with energy by batteries in two sizes, which can be recharged from 10 to 80 percent in 26 minutes at DC fast charging stations with up to 185 kW or 200 kW (maximum charging capacity). GTX towing capacity: Thanks to an extra power and the 4MOTION drive system, the ID. Buzz GTX offers a higher maximum trailer weight: the version with normal wheelbase can effortlessly pull up to 1,800 kg (braked, 8 per cent gradient), while the ID. Buzz GTX with long wheelbase has a maximum towing capacity of 1,600 kg. The maximum trailer weight was thus increased by 800 kg and 600 kg respectively. The 4MOTION system offers great traction advantages when towing a trailer on wet or loose surfaces in particular. The new ID. Buzz GTX is therefore an ideal towing vehicle – for example, for boat or horse trailers, which are often moved on slippery ground. GTX exterior: The ID. Buzz GTX is characterised by an individualised front end. A bumper in GTX styling with a black air intake grille in honeycomb design and new side air guide elements also ensure a dynamic, distinctive appearance. New daytime running lights are integrated into the bumper on the left and right. All black body elements such as the new air intake grille, air guide elements, GTX lettering and the exterior mirror housings are finished in high-gloss black. In addition, the Solna 20-inch alloy wheel is standard equipment for the ID. Buzz GTX. The range of GTX wheel rims is supplemented by two new 21-inch alloy wheels. Always fitted as standard are IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights. A new paint finish in the colour Cherry Red is offered exclusively for the ID. Buzz GTX. This red will be configurable as a solid paint finish and optionally in combination with Mono Silver metallic as a two-tone paint finish. GTX interior: Volkswagen has also customised the interior equipment. Dark tones underline the sporty character of the most powerful ID. Buzz. For example, both ID. Buzz GTX versions are the only models in the product line to be equipped with a black headliner. The seats also feature the specific GTX design. Electrically adjustable comfort seats with memory function are used in the front. The seats are enhanced by covers in black ArtVelours Eco microfleece with a new diamond pattern as well as red contrasting seams and red piping. Red cross-stitching is a distinctive feature on the multifunction steering wheel, which is refined by a red application on the centre trim and the GTX lettering integrated there in chrome. GTX passenger compartment: The ID. Buzz GTX with standard wheelbase is available as a five-seater with a 40:60 split three-seat bench in the second row (2/3) or as a six-seater with two individual seats each in the second and third rows (2/2/2). The long-wheelbase ID. Buzz GTX will also launch as a five-seater with a three-seat bench (2/3) and as a six-seater (2/2/2). This version will additionally be offered as a seven-seater with a three-seat bench in the second row and two individual seats in the third row (2/3/2). Depending on the model, the seats in the second row can be moved longitudinally by 150 mm (standard wheelbase) or 200 mm (long wheelbase). GTX luggage compartment: The luggage compartment volume of the ID. Buzz GTX (standard wheelbase) as a five-seater is between 1,121 litres (loaded to the upper edge of the rear seat backrests) and 2,123 litres (rear bench seat folded down, loaded up to the upper edge of the front seat backrests). The extended ID. Buzz GTX is even more spacious: when loaded up to the upper edge of the backrests of the second row of seats, a capacity of 1,340 litres is available. If the large ID. Buzz GTX is loaded right up to the first row of seats, the volume increases to 2,469 litres. Even when occupied by seven people, there is still 306 litres of load space available behind the third row of seats in the long GTX. Depending on the seat configuration, both ID. Buzz GTX models can be equipped with a long or short Multiflex board (including two folding boxes). The Multiflex board creates a second loading level and – when the rear seats are folded down – a flat load area. New hardware and software plus ChatGPT: A major hardware and software update for the product line will be incorporated into the GTX models. New on board are a head-up display (optional) and the next generation of infotainment systems (standard) with new menu navigation and graphics as well as fast processor power. The system’s touchscreen is now 12.9 inches in size instead of 12.0 inches (33 cm diagonal instead of 30 cm). Also new are the illuminated touch bar for temperature and volume control. The new IDA voice assistant is operated with natural voice commands. It not only allows control of numerous vehicle functions, but also provides answers to general knowledge questions using the online connection to databases such as Wikipedia. The innovative IDA voice assistant additionally features ChatGPT integration (AI/artificial intelligence). Another new feature is a Wellness app that uses preconfigured programmes to adjust various vehicle functions to improve well-being while driving or charging. The exit warning system is another new addition. This warns of motorised vehicles and bicycles approaching from the rear when a door is opened. Samba bus of a new era: From now on, the ID. Buzz with long wheelbase will be available with the panoramic sunroof with smart glass as an option. The multi-layered smart glass has an integrated liquid crystal film and can be electronically switched so that it is transparent or opaque. The largest panoramic sunroof ever used in a Volkswagen evokes memories of the legendary "Samba Bus" and transfers the typical roof windows of the classic car into the present. GTX concept: Since 2021, the sportiest models of the all-electric ID. series have carried the GTX label – in reference to the dynamic VW models with the designations GTI, GTD or GTE. Including the new ID. Buzz GTX, a total of five ID. models will be available to the GTX range soon. Articles source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com

plug-in hybrid drives, TDI, 4MOTION – new Passat can now be ordered with further drive variants from 41,745 euros

Volkswagen is significantly expanding the range of drive systems that are available for the new Passat: pre-sales of two new plug-in hybrid drives are now starting. The eHybrid models have outputs of 150 kW (204 PS) and 200 kW (272 PS). Electric ranges of up to 120 km mean they become electric cars in everyday life. Two further turbodiesel (TDI) versions are also being launched: the Passat TDI with 90 kW (122 PS) will be the entry-level version in future. The most powerful TDI engine in the Passat will now deliver 142 kW (193 PS) and is coupled to the 4MOTION all-wheel drive as standard. The new Passat has already been available for configuration with a mild hybrid drive (eTSI) and a TDI with 110 kW (150 PS) since autumn last year. Four lines. The Passat is generally offered as a Variant as well as in the equipment lines Passat (entry-level version), Business, Elegance and R-Line. The Business version is geared to frequent business drivers, while the Elegance and R-Line versions offer the top-of-the-line specification packages. The different drive variants are linked to specific equipment lines: Plug-in hybrid drive with 150 kW and 200 kW. The two Passat eHybrid models have one of the world’s most modern plug-in hybrid drive systems on board. An 85 kW electric motor is combined with a 110 kW (150 PS) or 130 kW (177 PS) high-tech turbocharged petrol engine (1.5 TSI evo2). As both Passat eHybrids permit an electric range of up to 120 km, they often become electric cars in everyday life. This is all the more true as their 19.7 kWh battery takes on new energy with a charging capacity of 11 kW at an AC wall box and up to 50 kW at DC quick-charging stations. Both eHybrid models are also ideal long-distance vehicles thanks to their long combined ranges. The Passat eHybrid with 150 kW (204 PS) system power (350 Nm system torque) can be configured at prices from 50,320 euros and in the Passat, Business and Elegance equipment lines. The 200 kW (272 PS) version has a system torque of 400 Nm, starts at 62,330 euros and can be ordered together with the Elegance and R-Line specifications. TDI with 90 kW. The new Passat TDI with 90 kW (122 PS) is one of the most economical estate models in the mid-sized class. With a maximum torque of 320 Nm, even the smallest turbodiesel engine in the Passat range offers superior power delivery. The Passat can be ordered with this drive system at prices from 41,745 euros; the 90 kW TDI is offered for the Passat and Business equipment lines. TDI 4MOTION with 142 kW. The Passat is one of Europe’s most successful business vehicles. The powerful turbodiesel engines are particularly popular with frequent drivers. The reason for this is that they offer large power reserves with the lowest consumption values. A prime example of this is the Passat TDI 4MOTION with 142 kW (193 PS) and all-wheel drive as standard. Other advantages of the powerful Passat TDI 4MOTION drive include optimum traction on any terrain and a maximum trailer weight of 2,200 kg. The Passat TDI 4MOTION can now be ordered at prices from 57,335 euros; it is exclusively reserved for the two top versions Elegance and R-Line. TDI and eTSI with 110 kW. It has already been possible to configure the Passat models with 110 kW (150 PS) TDI and eTSI engines since November last year. The Passat eTSI (mild hybrid) is equipped with a 48 V belt-driven starter alternator and can be ordered at prices starting from 39,995 euros; the eTSI is available for the Passat and Business equipment lines. The 110 kW TDI starts at 48,495 euros and can be configured in the Business, Elegance and R-Line equipment lines. Article source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com

Double world premiere of ID.3 GTX and ID.7 GTX Tourer: Volkswagen provides initial facts and photos of the sporty electric models

Volkswagen is expanding its range of sporty GTX models. As a double world premiere, the new ID.3 GTX and ID.7 GTX Tourer models are now the first to make their debut. The two highly dynamic Volkswagen models will be launched soon with an individual exterior design, including their own front and rear light signatures, sporty design details in the interior and powerful performance drives. The sportiest models from the all-electric ID. product line have already borne the GTX label since 2021 – based on the dynamic Volkswagen models with the designations GTI, GTD or GTE. GTX success story. The sporty and dynamic GTX models offer a completely unique and particularly fascinating type of electric mobility. The fact that every fifth newly registered ID.4 and ID.5 in Europe is already a GTX model shows just how popular this is with customers. Volkswagen has now transferred the successful driving dynamics to the ID.3 GTX and ID.7 GTX Tourer – with an individual technical setup in each case. The character of the ID.3 GTX. Volkswagen will launch the rear-wheel drive ID.3 GTX in two variants. The top-of-the-line model is the ID.3 GTX Performance – a snappy, compact sports car. Kai Grünitz, Member of the Volkswagen Brand Board of Management responsible for Development, says: “With its spontaneous and superior power delivery, the new ID.3 GTX Performance is for me the electric counterpart to our sporty compact icon, the Golf GTI Clubsport. Of course, an electric drive and a turbocharged petrol engine each have their own unique character. Yet the ID.3 GTX Performance and the Golf GTI Clubsport share the same fascinating lightness when they accelerate.” Grünitz continues: “With the ID.3 GTX, Volkswagen is transferring the almost 50-year tradition of its compact GT models into the world of electric mobility. Driving pleasure is guaranteed.” The design and equipment of the ID.3 GTX. The ID.3 GTX stands out from all other models in the product line thanks to its individualised exterior design. The GTX-specific front bumper features a new independent black air intake in a diamond-style design and has new daytime running lights on the left and right. The black elements of the body have a high-gloss finish. This additionally applies to the newly designed side sills and the new lower area of the rear end with diffuser. Also new are the 20-inch Skagen alloy wheels fitted as standard. A host of GTX-specific features customise the vehicle interior. With their ergonomic design, premium sports seats (in fabric and leatherette) equipped as standard underline the sporty character of the most powerful ID.3 models. Another classic GTX design element: red decorative stitching on the seats and multifunction steering wheel. The high-quality cockpit surface is also GTX-specific. The more powerful ID.3 GTX Performance comes with DCC adaptive chassis control. The character of the ID.7 GTX Tourer. Pre-sales of the new ID.7 Tourer started only last week – and now the new ID.7 GTX Tourer is already making its debut as the most powerful model in the product line. Like the ID.4 GTX and ID.5 GTX, it has a dual-motor all-wheel drive system that can drive the front axle in parallel with the rear axle. Kai Grünitz: “The ID.7 GTX Tourer paves the way for a new type of sporty mobility by combining the spaciousness of a large estate with the performance of a sports car. What is fascinating here is the instantaneous punch with which the electric motors provide their maximum output and torque in fractions of a second.” The design and equipment of the ID.7 GTX Tourer. The front of the ID.7 GTX Tourer is distinguished from the other models in the product line by a distinctive bumper with honeycomb grille and GTX-specific light graphics including illuminated badges. As with the ID.3 GTX, all black elements have a high-gloss finish. This additionally applies to the side sills and the lower area of the rear bumper in GTX design. As on the ID.3 GTX, 20-inch Skagen alloy wheels are fitted as standard on the ID.7 GTX Tourer. The interior is refined by features such as individualised seats (heated in the front) with perforated GTX lettering in the backrests, red piping on the seats, red seams on the dash panel and door trims as well as a GTX-specific multifunction steering wheel with red decorative stitching. The luggage compartment capacity of up to 1,714 litres is just as large as for the rear-wheel drive variants. Article source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com

Electrical variability: Volkswagen starts pre-sales of the new ID.7 Tourer

Volkswagen is driving forward its major product offensive in the mid-sized class with pre-sales of the new ID.7 Tourer. Following the new ID.7 fastback saloon, new Passat and new Tiguan, the first all-electric Volkswagen estate-car is already the fourth new mid-sized model in just a few months. The business and leisure all-rounder can now be configured and ordered at prices starting at 54,795 euros. As one of just a few manufacturers, Volkswagen is present on the European market with three estate models in the important upper mid-sized class: the sporty Arteon Shooting Brake, the completely newly developed Passat Variant and the ID.7 Tourer. With this model range, Volkswagen offers all relevant drive types in the mid-sized class and thus a particularly large choice for customers. Range of up to 607 km. The ID.7 Tourer was designed specifically for the European market. At the start of pre-sales, the electric Volkswagen can be configured as the ID.7 Tourer Pro with a 210 kW (286 PS) electric drive and a battery with an energy content of 77 kWh (net). The WLTP range is up to 607 km. The ID.7 Tourer Pro has a top speed of up to 180 km/h and can take new energy on board with a capacity up to 175 kW at DC quick-charging stations. With this power, the battery can be charged from 10 to 80 per cent in about 28 minutes. Maximum use of space. With a load capacity of up to 1,714 litres, the new ID.7 Tourer is one of the most spacious electric cars on the market. Even with five people on board, a luggage compartment volume of up to 605 litres is available (rear bench seat backrest in cargo position). As the large wheelbase of 2,971 mm almost completely benefits the interior, the overall length of the ID.7 Tourer of 4,961 mm means there is above-average legroom in the rear. Extensive standard equipment. The base price of 54,795 euros includes a two-zone automatic air conditioner with intelligent vents, the infotainment system with touchscreen in tablet format (diagonal: 38 cm, 15 inches) including App-Connect Wireless for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an augmented reality head-up display, the IDA voice assistant, mobile phone interface, four USB-C interfaces, background lighting (10 colours), anti-theft alarm, seat heating in the front, luggage compartment partition net, LED headlights and LED tail light clusters, electrically folding exterior mirrors, surround lighting including logo projection via exterior mirror housings and illuminated door handle recesses, the keyless locking and starting system Keyless Access, rain sensor, black roof rails (75 kg roof load) and 19-inch alloy wheels. Assist systems on board as standard. All versions of the ID.7 Tourer are equipped with assist systems such as the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) including Lane Assist (lane keeping system), Side Assist (lane change system), the Car2X hazard warning system, Dynamic Road Sign Display, Rear View (rear view camera system) and Light Assist (main-beam control). Simple individualisation by means of equipment packages. The ID.7 Tourer can be customised in just a few steps by means of optional equipment packages. An example is the Comfort package: this combines features such as a three-zone automatic air conditioner (Air Care Climatronic), navigation system, inductive charging interface for smartphones and windscreen heating. The Assist System package additionally includes Connected Travel Assist (assisted driving) and innovative systems for assisted parking. The Interior package Plus includes, among other things, 30-colour background lighting, electrically adjustable ergoActive comfort seats in the front (with massage programmes and active air conditioning), seat centre panels in ArtVelours Eco microfleece in the front and on the outer rear seats, as well as a Harman Kardon sound system with a total output of 700 watts. The Exterior package Plus with Smart Glass offers a large panoramic sunroof as an innovative detail. The glass layers of this smart glass can be electronically switched between opaque or clear. Among other things, this package also includes DCC adaptive chassis control, IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights, Dynamic Light Assist (main-beam control) and LED tail light clusters with dynamic turn signals. Optionally illuminated Volkswagen badges on the front and rear round off the appearance of the ID.7 Tourer. New Wellness In-Car App. The Wellness In-Car App is also completely new. This allows synchronised adjustment of various vehicle functions by means of three preconfigured programmes (Fresh Up, Calm Down and Power Break) to enhance well-being on board. Depending on the vehicle equipment, the app accesses the background lighting, sound, air conditioning, Smart Glass function, seat heating, automatic seat air conditioning and seat massage function. Articles source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com

Confident off-road and on-road: The Audi Q8 e-tron edition Dakar

It is inspired by the world’s premier desert rally: the Audi Q8 e-tron edition Dakar2. On the exterior, the special model’s raised chassis and the optional decals are reminiscent of the RS Q e-tron designed for the Dakar Rally and featuring an electric drive system and an energy converter. The off-road capabilities of this exclusive SUV, combined with its high and instantly available torque, are perfect for adventurous people who also want to drive off the beaten path electrically. The Q8 e-tron edition Dakar2 will be available to order from the end of February 2024. The base price in Germany starts at € 119,900. The Audi Q8 e-tron edition Dakar2 is based on a Q8 advanced 55 e-tron quattro3. The net battery size is 106 kWh (gross: 114 kWh) and the quattro drivetrain, with its two motors, delivers 300 kW in boost mode with a torque of 664 Nm. This means the vehicle accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.8 seconds with the standard tires. With the General Grabber AT3 all-terrain tires, the car reaches 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds. The range according to the WLTP is up to 483 kilometers. The top speed is limited to 200 km/h (124 mph). Compared with the base model, the electric SUV with General Grabber AT3 all-terrain tires has a higher ground clearance of 31 millimeters and is designed for improved handling on loose surfaces such as gravel and snow. In the base setting, the vehicle has a ground clearance of 206 millimeters. At higher speeds, the vehicle gradually lowers – by 15 millimeters at 85 km/h (53 mph), 17 millimeters at 100 km/h (62 mph), and 13 millimeters at 120 km/h (75 mph). This optimizes driving stability at high speeds for improved aerodynamics and range. In conjunction with the front angle approach of 20 degrees and the rear angle approach of 26 degrees, the electric SUV is well prepared to tackle light off-road terrain. The vehicle has a ramp angle of 19 degrees. The control strategy for the air suspension has also been revised to meet typical off-road driving requirements. The wading depth is 300 mm. Distinctive exterior accentuates sporty off-road look The Q8 e-tron edition Dakar2is available in Siam Beige metallic, Mythos Black metallic, and Magnetic Gray. The Singleframe always comes in body color. The Singleframe's projection light, along with its light strip, creates a consistent connection between the headlights. The Bottom Line is finished in Mythos Black metallic, adding stability. Wider wheel arch trims at the front and rear give the Q8 e-tron edition Dakar2 a confident road presence. Opening the driver's door projects "edition Dakar" onto the street with LED lights. The exclusive key cover reflects the edition Dakar2's class. Optionally, a convenience key with anti-theft alarm opens doors and the luggage compartment via wireless communication. Sensors on the door handles allow the key to lock the vehicle. The Q8 e-tron edition Dakar2 can be fitted with a unique decal package inspired by the legendary RS Q e-tron. Starting with the body color Mythos Black metallic, the car receives a partial embellishment. This means that the wrap uses purposeful transparencies and does not mask the entire surface, even though all exterior components are treated. The wrapped models are limited to 99 units. On the D-pillar, the special model’s serial number can be seen in frosted lettering. The edition Dakar features extensive standard equipment The comfort features of the Audi Q8 e-tron edition Dakar2 correspond to those of a typical luxury model. The special edition model rolls off the production line with Matrix LED headlights and taillights as standard for precise and high-resolution road illumination. Standard equipment also includes tinted sun visors for the tailgate, rear door, and side windows. On the inside, the S line interior is now standard: This package includes deeply contoured sports seats upholstered in Dinamica microfiber and artificial leather. The vehicle also features a multifunction sport leather steering wheel, an elegant black roof lining, stainless steel pedals, and a comfort center armrest. The decorative inlays come in brushed matte aluminum, while the door sills feature aluminum inserts. The upper part of the instrument panel and the lower interior elements are finished in black artificial leather. The Audi Sport stitching package in red is available as an option. It adds contrasting accents with colored stitching on the sport seats, steering wheel, knee pads, and door armrests. The seat belts are also trimmed in red to blend in perfectly with the cabin’s sporty feel. A head-up display supplements the screens. It projects important information right onto the windshield – the projections seem to float in front of the driver. Another new feature is a display in the MMI operating system that shows information the vehicle’s tilt angle. Plus, Audi offers MMI background images on the MMI display created especially for the edition Dakar2. The panoramic glass roof enhances the interior's brightness, creating an impression of lightness and spaciousness. The glass element can be opened and closed electronically for added convenience. Audi has crafted theme worlds in the MMI display exclusively for the edition Dakar. These include MMI background images and coordinated ambient lighting. The vehicle's essence is portrayed through three scenes: from desert thunderstorms and tire tracks to a dune landscape. The Audi phone box enhances phone convenience by wirelessly connecting the driver's smartphone and charging it through inductive technology, linking it to the car antenna. The edition Dakar also includes the City and Tour assistance packages as standard features. The Q8 e-tron edition Dakar2 is equipped with robust features that highlight its practicality. The storage and luggage compartment package is included as a standard feature, featuring a durable luggage compartment liner and sturdy floor mats with edition lettering. Additionally, the special edition comes with a standard roof rack, capable of holding up to 40 kilograms (88 lbs.) and accommodating various items. The roof rack package includes a bag and straps for securing accessories. For added convenience, there's a second charging socket compatible with the Combined Charging System Type 2 (CCS2) to charge the high-voltage battery. The e-tron charging system provides everything adventure-seekers need to charge their vehicle, whether at home, with friends, or at a vacation home. The Q8 e-tron edition Dakar2 is delivered with eight tires. The car comes fitted with General Grabber AT3 all-terrain tires for excellent off-road resilience. The tires also ensure improved grip on a variety of surfaces including gravel, stony terrain, mountain and forest paths, and snow. The special tread pattern optimizes acceleration as well as braking and lateral control quality while also enabling the tires to efficiently self-clean, especially when driving on muddy surfaces. The Grabber AT3 tires also have excellent driving characteristics and low noise emission on asphalt roads for significantly increased driving comfort. The all-terrain tires have an M+S marking, meaning they are suitable for year-round use. A set of summer tires on 20-inch wheels in an attractive 5-V spoke S design is also included with the Q8 e-tron edition Dakar2. More light, visibility, and sound: Special features The optional ambient light package plus with six predefined color profiles stages the interior to great effect. Featuring extensive contour lights in up to 30 colors, it precisely traces the elemental lines of the interior. As an alternative to the standard two-zone automatic air conditioning, Audi offers four-zone automatic air conditioning. The system can use an optional second high-voltage heater to noticeably increase the heating power. This means that the interior warms up faster in very cold conditions, while the additional battery heater ensures that the battery is ready for charging in very low temperatures. The optional Bang & Olufsen Premium Sound System with 3D sound gives the electric SUV an even greater high-end sound experience. It drives 16 speakers with 705 watts of power. The optionally available virtual side mirrors with cameras reduce the overall width of the vehicle by 15 centimeters, improving the drag coefficient. The virtual mirrors provide clearer visibility than conventional mirrors in dusty or wet off-road conditions. Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com