VW News Blog

Volkswagen at Australian International Motor Show 2010 - Live Photos

2010-10-17T14:24:00.018+10:30

Amarok Highline in Candy White

Amarok Highline in Mendoza Brown and with Accessories

Amarok Dakar Support Vehicle

Polo GTI

Golf GTI adidas

New Beetle Cabrio with The Wiggles decal

Golf Wagon 103 TDI Comfortline

Eos 155TSI

Golf BlueMotion

Sao Paolo Motor Show Preview - 2011 Gol Rallye

2010-10-04T09:49:00.009+10:30

Premiering at the 2010 Sao Paolo Motor Show in late October is the Gol Rallye.

The Gol Rallye nameplate is similar to the Cross brand VW uses globally for vehicles that look like off roaders but are actually more of a style statement than on off roader. Gol Rallye is powered by VW Brazil's Ethanol-Petrol 1.6L engine which is not sold elsewhere outside of South America & Mexico.

Source: Volkswagen Brazil

Passat Live Images from Paris Auto Show 2010

2010-10-04T09:33:00.007+10:30

World Premiere of the New Passat:
4.2* litre per 100 km fuel economy and a front end in the style of the Phaeton

• 7th generation Passat has new styling and extremely fuel-efficient engines

• Assistance systems and quality match those of a higher vehicle class

Wolfsburg / Paris, 29 September 2010 - The Passat from Volkswagen represents one of the very great success stories in automotive history, with over 15 million cars sold since the Passat was first launched in 1973. It is now available in over 100 countries across the globe. Now, at the Mondial de l’Automobile in Paris (October 2-17), Volkswagen is presenting the world premiere of an entirely new Passat – as a saloon and an estate car simultaneously. The seventh generation of this bestseller will be available in initial European markets starting as soon as mid-November.

To the point – upper class flair in a mid-class car
The fifth and sixth Passat generations had already left conventional class boundaries behind and bridged a path to the next higher segment with their high-end features. The seventh generation Passat emphatically continues this trend. A completely new styling configuration was created; its front-end styling follows that of the Phaeton which was restyled mid-year. It simultaneously guides the Passat’s independent design into the future. Without leaving the mid-class in terms of pricing, the Passat approaches the top segments even more powerfully with its upgraded comfort, convenience, quality and safety properties as well as in its assistance systems. In fact, the Passat - available in Trendline, Comfortline and Highline equipment levels - now offers more value thanks to its optimised features. For example, standard equipment on all turbodiesel models of the base Trendline version now includes the energy-saving Stop/Start system and battery regeneration. All other petrol and natural gas engines have a battery regeneration system as well. For the smallest petrol engine, battery regeneration and the Stop/Start system are available as options.

Up to 18 percent improved fuel economy: As is usual for a Volkswagen, the new Passat also sets standards in sustainability. All ten engines (77 kW / 105 PS through 220 kW / 300 PS) are more fuel efficient – up to 18 percent more. The "smallest" and yet torque-strong turbodiesel (1.6 TDI with 105 PS and 250 Nm) now consumes just 4.2* l/100 km; that is equivalent to 109* g/km CO2. Meanwhile, downsizing and technologies such as the Stop/Start system contribute to extraordinary fuel efficiency in the petrol-powered versions. Pioneering here is the 1.4 TSI (90 kW / 122 PS); in the BlueMotion Technology version, it only consumes 5.8 l/100 km. The equivalent CO2 value is 138 g/km.

New safety features: Volkswagen is making genuine progress in the area of safety. The previous model already attained an impressive five stars in Euro-NCAP crash testing. The new model takes safety to a new level with features such as an automatic City emergency braking function and, on Comfortline models and above, a standard fatigue detection function. As a component of the optional automatic ACC adaptive cruise control system, in worst case scenarios the emergency braking function reacts independently at speeds below 30 km/h. So, it can help prevent frontal collisions. The fatigue detection system, which Volkswagen is introducing for the first time in this class, is continually active; it detects reduced driver concentration and warns the driver with an acoustic signal; a visual message also appears in the instrument cluster recommending that the driver should take a break from driving.

Another new feature on the Passat: the continually active masked main beam headlights known as Dynamic Light Assist; this is the same system as the one first introduced on the new Touareg. Dynamic Light Assist – an option offered in conjunction with bi-xenon headlights - enables continual use of the main beam headlights while driving. Via a camera, the system detects oncoming traffic and cars driving ahead and automatically masks only those lighting areas relevant to glare. The results: improved illumination of the carriageway in nearly all situations. The Passat is the first car in its class to have this system. For vehicles with conventional halogen headlights, a simpler version of automatic main beam control is available: Light Assist. A camera is also used here, e.g. to detect oncoming traffic. But the system switches over completely between main beam and dipped beam. As soon as there is no more oncoming traffic, the main beam is reactivated.

The XDS electronic transverse differential lock - first introduced on the Golf GTI - improves traction in bends. Along with Lane Assist (lane keeping assistant), which was also available in the previous model, there will now also be a Side Assist function, which uses flashing LEDs in the door mirrors to call the driver’s attention to vehicles located laterally to the rear or next to the Passat or a vehicle approaching quickly from the rear. A new, direct measuring tyre pressure monitoring system also signals potential loss of tyre pressure - individually for each wheel. The pressures of all tyres may also be displayed in the instrument cluster.

Innovative convenience systems: Other new assistance systems are essentially convenience oriented, and they significantly simplify everyday driving. They include Easy Open: If the new Passat saloon is equipped with Keyless Access (automatic locking and engine starting system), a specific foot motion behind the vehicle is sufficient to cause the boot lid to open. Anyone who has stood next to a car with both hands full knows know helpful a function like Easy Open can be. Naturally, the boot lid only opens for someone who is carrying the proper RF identification fob for the Passat. The human-machine interface here is a sensor located in the bumper area.

Also new in the Passat: The rear seat system that can be unlatched from the bootspace, a towbar that can be made to swivel out at the press of a button and side windows in noise-dampening compound safety glass. As in the new Sharan, Park Assist II will now also be offered on the Passat; this system not only can steer into parking spaces parallel to the carriageway; it can also find its way into parking spaces perpendicular to it. Last but not least, the Passat’s RNS 510 navigation system detects speed limit signs by camera and sends them to the touchscreen in the centre console.

Passat Variant Exclusive Concept

Passat TSI with BlueMotion Technology

Passat BlueMotion

Source: Volkswagen Media Services
Image Source: UnitedPictures.com

Amarok SingleCab premieres at the IAA in Hanover

2010-10-04T08:52:00.004+10:30

Pickup now also with single cab: Amarok SingleCab premieres at the IAA in
Hanover

• Amarok with single cab and longer cargo bed for rugged
work
• Comfortable single cab provides more space than usual

Hanover, 21st September 2010 - Following the internationally successful launch of the double cab Amarok, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is now unveiling at the 63rd Commercial Vehicles IAA in Hanover (23rd to 30th September) the second Amarok variant: an Amarok with a shorter cab and longer cargo bed. The Amarok SingleCab is a classic ‘workhorse’ pickup.

Compared to the Amarok with four-door double cab, the Amarok SingleCab, while having the same vehicle length, provides a cargo bed that is 2,205 millimetres long and thus 65 centimetres longer. It can comfortably take two Euro pallets loaded sideways one behind the other and still leave a further 60 centimetres of storage space spare. With an unchanged loading gap of 1.22 metres between the wheel arches, the cargo bed provides a total load area of 3.57m2, while six load-lashing rings, fitted as standard, enable even large and bulky items to be transported safely.

Pickups with a single cab are regarded as the classic ‘workhorse’ for tough jobs in the manual trades, construction and agriculture. What counts above all else in these areas of work is the size of the load space. However, the engineers at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles placed great importance on creating adequate space for the vehicle’s occupants as well. The single cab is therefore longer than on competitors’ models, enabling valuable items to be easily stored behind the two front seats.

The Amarok SingleCab is powered by the familiar 2.0-litre TDI engine (delivering 120kW / 163PS) or by the 90 kW / 122 PS TDI version now being unveiled for the first time. For power transmission customers can choose rear-wheel drive or switchable four-wheel drive with gear reduction. A differential lock on the rear axle is available as an option for both versions. The heavy-duty suspension enables the vehicle to carry a maximum load of up to 1.26 tons. Safety remains as ever at a high level. This includes ESP as standard, front airbags for driver and passenger and side airbags.

In addition to the classic commercial vehicle variant with black bumpers, a style pack is available for the SingleCab that includes bumpers in the vehicle body colour, 18 or 19-inch alloy wheels and an extensive array of further special features extending all the way to a premium navigation system. The classic workhorse can thus be pepped up into a lifestyle pickup.

The Amarok SingleCab will be launched in the first half of 2011.

Source: Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles

New Transporter Rockton masters the toughest ground

2010-10-04T08:47:00.006+10:30

Four-wheel drive specialist: New Transporter Rockton masters the toughest ground

• New Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles all-rounder with
many uses on made and unmade roads
• With expedition pack, ready for any great adventure

Hanover 21st September 2010 – A van for use on tough terrain and for transporting man and materials to locations that are difficult to reach – it is for these extreme demands that Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has now developed the Transporter Rockton. Building contractors, railway construction firms, mountain rescue teams and many others need a vehicle that can be flexibly adapted to their needs – and that is tough into the bargain.

The Rockton has been specifically designed to meet the sometimes extreme requirements of these target groups and, thanks to excellent traction, it thus fulfils the challenging demands of such customers to be able to transport material even in critical situations.

The Rockton is based on the Transporter Kombi, but by virtue of its standard 4-wheel drive has more grip on unmade roads. The permanent 4MOTION four-wheel drive with a 4th generation Haldex clutch, a differential lock as standard on the rear axle, height raised by 30 millimetres and strengthened suspension and shock absorbers (3.2-ton chassis) enable the vehicle to take its passengers and cargo reliably through almost impassable terrain. The Rockton even takes gradients of up to 36 degrees comfortably in its stride.

In addition to the raised height, the Transporter Rockton is also identifiable externally by the lack of rear side windows and its special livery. Inside the Rockton offers all of the special features of the Transporter Kombi, including, for instance, various different types of bench-style backseat. The Transporter Rockton is available with either of two powerful and fuelefficient 2.0-litre TDI engines, delivering 103 and 132 kW (140 / 180 PS) respectively and has a six-speed manual gearbox as standard. Furthermore all engine variants comply with the Euro 5 emission limits.

For extreme off-road use there’s the ‘Expedition Pack’, which makes the Transporter Rockton ready to set off on any great adventure. Noticeable externally are the 16-inch AT tyres on strengthened steel wheels. The main changes, however, come in the detail: a particular feature of this version is a special gearbox that provides increased traction in off-road mode. And even though the Rockton has been tailored to the special conditions of off-road motoring, it is fully suited to road use as well. For use away from made-up roads undercarriage protection elements shield the engine, gearbox, tank, sills, rear-axle differential and main exhaust silencer.

Another detail feature is the robust floor track system in the passenger compartment, to which two individual seats with sturdy fabric covers are secured. Both seats are equipped with an integral three-point safety belt and can be moved along the tracks or taken out. In addition, the Business Unit also provides further special equipment options. The new Transporter Rockton, which will be available to order from the end of the year, can thus be adapted to almost any use.

Source: Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles

‘Edition25’ Multivan for the top seller’s birthday

2010-10-04T08:44:00.007+10:30

Special sporty model: ‘Edition25’ Multivan for the top seller’s birthday

• The first Multivan was built 25 years ago
• Black touches give the special model a dramatic look

Hanover, 21st September 2010 – The year 1985: then just 17 years old, Boris Becker becomes the first German to win the Men’s Final at Wimbledon, ‘Rock am Ring’ takes place for the first time and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles builds the first Multivan. The Multivan concept closes the gap between the working day and the weekend – the highly versatile MPV is born! Fittingly for the Multivan’s 25th anniversary, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is now launching a special model.

This special model is based on the current Multivan Comfortline, but offers even more finesse. It will only be available, for instance, in Candy White, Salsa Red or Metallic Silver so that the planned special touches are shown off to best effect. The model can be recognised above all by its matt black roof and black 18-inch alloy wheels. Further features include: black handles on driver and front passenger doors; a black B-pillar; black decal trim on the back of the vehicle and the side sills; and matt black paintwork on the bottom part of the front bumper.

The height-adjustable, ergonomic seats for driver and front passenger and the individually adjustable, sliding rows of seats in the back enable passengers to enjoy the high level of comfort that they are used to in a Multivan. The height and angle of the multifunctional leather steering wheel can be adjusted, thus guaranteeing driving comfort for drivers of all heights. The ‘RCD 310’ radio fitted as standard in the special model has a total of eight loudspeakers, plays MP3 files and includes a digital radio (DAB) receiver.

The ‘Side Assist’ lane-changing aid identifies any vehicles in an area critical to the process of changing lane. LED lights in the wing mirrors provide signals to alert the driver to the potential danger. This system, complete with cruise control, is standard on the special ‘Edition25’ model. The model’s feature set also includes an automatic anti-glare rear-view mirror: as soon as the headlights of any following vehicle start to create too much glare, the mirror automatically goes darker.

A sports chassis and strengthened anti-roll bar make the special model even more agile on the road. The ‘Edition25’ Multivan also features numerous extras in the area of comfort and safety: with fog lamps including adaptive lights as standard, daytime running lights and Running Light Assist, tyre pressure indicator and rain sensor the vehicle is comprehensively equipped. There is also another anniversary being celebrated through the launch of the ‘Edition25’ Multivan: it was also 25 years ago that the first Transporter with four-wheel drive was built. The four-wheel drive anniversary is being celebrated with a 132kW DSG 4Motion version of the special ‘Edition25’ model.

Source: Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles unveils most efficient T5

2010-10-04T08:31:00.010+10:30

Clean BlueMotion Technology: Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles unveils most efficient T5

• With BlueMotion Technology market leader consumes just 6.8 l/100 km

• At 179g CO2 per kilometre the T5 is the cleanest van in its
class

Hanover, 21st September 2010 – At the 63rd Commercial Vehicles IAA in Hanover (23rd to 30th September) the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles brand will be demonstrating its great innovative strength. Alongside highlights like the new Caddy and Amarok, the Hanover based operation will be showing an especially frugal variant of the Transporter – the Transporter TDI with BlueMotion Technology and great potential for savings.

Compared to an equivalent model with the same engine from the current range, at just 6.8 l/100 km the Transporter with BlueMotion Technology needs 0.5 litres less diesel (equating to 179 rather than 193 g/km of CO2). This has been achieved by means of efficient, high-torque common rail four cylinder engines combined with a Stop-Start system, brake energy recovery, tyres with particularly low roll resistance and special aerodynamic measures.

“The 2.0-litre common rail diesel engine gives us a modern power plant in the range with great money saving potential,” says Dr Wolfgang Schreiber, spokesman for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ Brand Management Board and Director of Technical Development.

“The special measures we have taken here enable fuel consumption to be reduced to a new record low in this class. Over the medium term we will also be combining this technology with our direct shift transmission.”

The Stop-Start system in detail
It is particularly interesting to take a look at how the fully intuitive Stop-Start system works: the driver approaches a red light in his BlueMotion Technology Transporter, slows to a stop, switches to neutral and takes his foot off the clutch. This immediately turns the engine off. The ‘Stop-Start’ indicator now appears on the multi-function display. As soon as the traffic lights switch to amber and the driver puts his foot on the clutch, the engine automatically starts, the ‘Stop-Start’ indicator goes out, the driver puts the vehicle into gear and drives on. There is nothing more to do than when driving a standard van. The Stop-Start system thus makes an appreciable contribution to cutting fuel consumption.

Regenerative braking in detail
Regenerative braking helps the vehicle to utilise energy used in driving in the best way possible. Whenever the Transporter with BlueMotion Technology is coasting or braking, i.e. whenever the driver simply lifts his foot off the accelerator or consciously brakes, the generator’s voltage gets increased and is utilised to significantly recharge the vehicle’s battery.

Thanks to this generator control and the fact that the battery is thus always optimally charged, the generator’s voltage can be reduced, for example during acceleration or when constantly maintaining the desired speed. That reduces the load on the engine and thus lowers consumption. In order to make use of regenerative braking special software is needed for the energy management system and modified software for the engine control unit.

The Transporter with BlueMotion Technology will be making its debut at the 2010 Commercial Vehicles IAA in Hanover. This most fuel-efficient Transporter ever will be incorporated into Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ model range as of early 2011.

The BlueMotion Technologies – A concept of sustainability
BlueMotionTechnologies include all products, basic technologies and innovations that significantly improve fuel economy and reduce emissions. These basic technologies represent the foundations of BlueMotion. Currently, they cover the TDI (turbocharged diesel direct injection) and TSI (boosted petrol direct injection) engines as well as the extremely efficient Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG). They are supplemented by technological innovations that include drive variants such as EcoFuel (natural gas
engines), BiFuel (liquid natural gas engines), MultiFuel (ethanol engines), hybrid systems and electric drives, as well as NOx emissions control, regenerative braking and the Stop-Start system. These basic technologies and innovations are getting incorporated into a growing range of products. These products / vehicles are currently grouped at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles into three concept brands: ‘BlueMotion’, ‘BlueMotion Technology’ and ‘BlueTDI’.

BlueMotion: This concept brand represents the most fuel-efficient Volkswagen model in each vehicle class. They are specially designed and configured with TDI engines, and all trendsetters when it comes to fuel economy and low emissions.

BlueMotion Technology: Vehicles with BlueMotion Technology can be individually configured. Customers thus have a largely free choice of equipment lines and options. When it comes to the drive train, however, the cars are equipped with exceptionally fuel-efficient TDI and TSI engine variants. BlueMotion Technology is selected as an equipment package when purchasing a new car.

BlueTDI: The third BlueMotion Technologies brand is BlueTDI. It represents the cleanest diesel models in their respective classes. The common rail TDI engines of these Volkswagen commercial vehicles are combined as standard with an SCR catalytic converter that further reduces nitrogen oxide emissions.

Source: Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles

World Premiere of the New Touran - Live Photos

2010-04-09T20:46:00.009+09:30

Bestselling Compact MPV in New Top Form:
New Touran as TDI consumes just 4.6 litres per 100 km with BlueMotion Technology!

World premiere of new generation Touran at AMI in Leipzig
First compact MPV with innovative continuous main beam headlights (Dynamic Light Assist)

Wolfsburg / Leipzig, 09 April 2010 - The Touran from Volkswagen is the most successful German compact MPV and “the” consummate family vehicle. Exactly 1.13 million units of the Touran have been sold to date. In Germany, it currently holds a market share of nearly 50 percent in its segment and across Europe, the Volkswagen ranks among the top five in its class. At the Auto Mobil International in Leipzig (10 to 18 April), Volkswagen is now presenting a generation of the bestseller that has been redesigned in many areas. The look of the Touran now follows the updated Volkswagen “design DNA”. From a technical viewpoint, its progressive systems break through class boundaries, as in the case of the continuous main beam headlights (Dynamic Light Assist) being introduced on an MPV for the first time, and the new Park Assist 2.0 for nearly automatic parallel and diagonal parking. A full range of six new petrol and diesel engines point the way to fuel economy and emissions values which were previously inconceivable on an MPV. Setting the pace in sustainability is the Touran TDI BlueMotion Technology (77 kW / 105 PS): The Touran sets a new best value for a seven-seater MPV with combined fuel consumption of 4.6 l/100 km (equivalent to 121 g/km CO2).

Also new aboard the Touran is the innovative entry-level petrol engine, the 1.2-litre TSI. It is a turbocharged direct-injection engine with 105 PS. In the style of a turbodiesel, it develops a strong 175 Newton-metres of torque from just above idle speed, yet it consumes only 6.4 l/100 km fuel in combined mode (equivalent to 149 g/km CO2). As an alternative, this variant is also available with BlueMotion Technology – together with the Start/Stop system and battery regeneration. In this case, values for combined fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are reduced to 5.9 l/100 km and 139 g/km, respectively.

All eight engines (power range from 66 kW / 90 PS to 125 kW / 170 PS) are highly efficient. Without exception, they are turbocharged direct-injection engines, which follow the Volkswagen downsizing principle. And this means: less engine displacement, lower emissions, lower fuel consumption yet significantly more torque! Naturally, all new Tourans fulfil the requirements of the Euro-5 emissions standard.

The range of features on the multi-purpose vehicle - equipped with up to 39 storage options - was reconfigured as well. The base model is now the Touran Trendline (previously Conceptline). Fuel consumption of the standard 1.2-litre TSI is frugal. Yet, the base model’s standard features are anything but frugal; they include air conditioning, radio/CD system with MP3 function, electric windows in all four doors, elegant decorative inserts in "Brushed Chrome" and daytime running lights.

Launching with an even more exclusive package of features is the Touran Comfortline (including light and rain sensors; automatic dimming rear-view mirror; chrome accents on components such as the light switch, window and mirror adjustment controls; light-absorbing side windows; comfort seats in front; folding tables for the second row of seats and black roof rails). The exclusive top model is the Touran Highline; its additional features - in addition to the Comfortline’s features - include Alcantara fabric upholstery, sport seats (front), automatic climate control, multifunction display with colour screen, leather-trimmed steering wheel with multifunction keys, 16-inch alloy wheels, silver roof rails and front fog lights with chrome frames.

Now on the Touran for the first time is the new RNS 315 radio-navigation system with touchscreen. Other new optional features now available include: the enormous panoramic slide/vent sunroof, Rear-View camera (standard in conjunction with RNS 510 radio-navigation system) and the DCC dynamic chassis control system. Another new feature on the Touran is Light Assist – an automatic main beam control system for standard headlights, making them a "younger technological sister" of the Dynamic Light Assist developed for bi-xenon headlights. The Touran will launch in August in Germany; over the course of the autumn, it will gradually be introduced to markets across the globe.

TDI and TSI engines – perfected downsizing
The range of engines – all turbocharged direct-injection four-cylinder units - should satisfy nearly all wishes. On the petrol side, three TSIs are being employed. As mentioned, the entry-level engine is the new 1.2-litre TSI with 77 kW / 105 PS. The two 1.4-litre TSI engines were adopted from the previous model; they have power outputs of 103 kW / 140 PS and 125 kW / 170 PS. The 170 PS version is paired with a standard seven-speed Direct Shift Gearbox; on the 140 PS TSI this extremely fast operating automatic gearbox can be ordered at extra charge.

Still a unique offering in this market segment is the EcoFuel, which consumes only 4.7 kilograms of natural gas (CNG) per 100 kilometres in combined mode driving; and that is equivalent to CO2 emissions of 128 g/km. When combined with the optional seven-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (this combination is also unique among MPVs), fuel consumption is reduced to 4.6 kg/100 km and CO2 emissions to 125 g/km.

Four new turbodiesels in the Touran – all of them now equipped with common rail direct-injection that is as efficient as it is smooth running – complete the engine line-up. Although their power values match those of the previous model, they are completely new TDIs in which Volkswagen has attained significant fuel savings. The entry-level engine of the TDI quartet is a 1.6-litre four cylinder with 66 kW / 90 PS. Its combined fuel consumption (5.1 litres) represents a fuel saving of 0.9 l/100 km compared to the previous model. At the next power level up, there is a 1.6-litre variant with 77 kW / 105 PS. Upon request, this TDI may be ordered with a seven-speed DSG or in the BlueMotion Technology version (six-speed manual). As mentioned, thanks to BlueMotion Technology the Touran TDI sets a new best fuel economy value for seven-seater MPVs at 4.6 l/100 km. The two most powerful TDIs with 103 kW / 140 PS and 125 kW / 170 PS are 2.0-litre engines. Here too, fuel savings were realised in the new generation: up to 1.2 l/100 km. The 170 PS TDI has a standard six-speed DSG, while DSG is offered as an option on the 140 PS variant. Like the 105 PS TDI, customers can order the 140 PS TDI with BlueMotion Technology starting at the end of this year. Combined fuel consumption here is 4.8 l/100 km. Except for models that come with standard DSG, a six-speed manual gearbox is provided in all Tourans.

Body styling and functionality – DNA of a new generation
The MPV’s new styling sharpens the character of the new generation Touran. Except for the four doors, every other body part of the MPV was restyled. As on the latest generation of the larger Sharan, and the even larger Multivan, a clear network of horizontal lines dominates in its styling. This adds to the Touran’s high stature within its class. Consider the front end: Here the bumper, radiator grille, engine bonnet, wings and headlights are equipped 100 percent with the latest Volkswagen "design DNA". High-end: the individualised radiator grille in glossy black with chrome trim is standard in some versions. Timeless: the larger yet elegant bumpers are painted in body colour. Pioneering: the distinctive shapes of the headlights. Their functionality can be extended to include automatic main beam activation when the Light Assist option is ordered, or – in the case of bi-xenon headlights and a world first in this class – continuous activation of the main beam headlights with the Dynamic Light Assist option. When customers order their Tourans with bi-xenon headlights, an LED daytime running light and position light – also a new development - is added to the headlight module. It consists of 12 individual LEDs.

Specifics on Light Assist and Dynamic Light Assist: The Light Assist function was designed for the standard headlights of the new Touran. As a camera-based system, this main beam assistant (extra option) recognises traffic situations based on detected light sources and gives either a dipped beam or main beam command to the power control module. The main beam is automatically activated or deactivated (starting at 60 km/h) based on this command; this functionality offers clear gains in convenience and safety.

For even better illumination of the road and road markings, the Dynamic Light Assist system was developed for bi-xenon headlights with integrated cornering light and dipped beam light. Also thanks to a camera integrated behind the front windscreen, this system makes it possible to keep the main beam modules of the bi-xenon headlights continually active. They are only masked in light pattern areas in which the system’s analysis shows a potential for unwanted glare to other vehicles in traffic.

The rear section of the Touran was also restyled for greater elegance. Along with the new horizontal structure of its design surfaces, it is the MPV’s rear lights – designed for the first time as two-part modules – that are especially prominent. They extend from the wing into the tailgate. Distinctive styling of the light module’s interior gives the Touran an unmistakable daytime and nighttime look. In addition, the tailgate offers advantages in terms of aerodynamics and functionality. A restyled roof edge spoiler reduces air turbulence in the rear section and helps to lower the new Touran’s Cd value from 0.32 to 0.29. The tailgate itself is significantly easier to close; thanks to optimised kinematics of the gas springs it now closes gently in one swing. In addition, the larger rear window offers an even better view to the rear. The sides of the Touran’s rear section were modified as well; in its side profile, a character line known as the "tornado line" rises upwards from the C-pillars to the rear, intensifying the dynamic energy of body surfaces here.

Interior concept and features – cleverly thought out
In the interior, the new generation Touran being presented in Leipzig comes with new materials, instruments, decorative accents and controls. The centre console with its new air conditioning controls was visually restyled, and air vents now have chrome bezels. From the Comfortline equipment level, additional chrome accents trim interior components such as switches for the electric windows, mirror adjustment and the light switch. Moreover, Volkswagen will be equipping the new Touran in the style of Golf & Co.; it will now have white backlit instruments and new three-spoke steering wheels. On DSG versions, the gearshift grip and gate were restyled as well. Modified head restraints in the second and third seating rows – which now lower to a lower level when not in use – also offer improved visibility to the rear.

In terms of both its ergonomics and variability, the individual seating system impresses on the Touran – which comes with standard five seating positions and optionally with seven seats. The three second row seats that are arranged next to one another can be adjusted longitudinally folded together with just a few hand movements, removed or shifted laterally. Due to their relatively high positions, the seats also offer exceptional thigh support and as a result excellent comfort on long journeys. Practical: Pockets and folding tables including a cup holder in the back of the driver and front passenger seats (from Comfortline), the middle seat that can be used as a table, storage bins in the floor in front of the second row seats and under the front seats, as well as large sized storage bins in the doors. The front passenger seatback may also be folded down completely, making it possible to transport long cargo objects.

As an option, the Touran can be ordered with a third seating row; when needed, it is easy to separately fold out each of the two full-size individual seats from the cargo area floor with just a few hand movements. In the lowered state, the cargo floor height is just seven centimetres more than without the third row of seats.

Optimal space utilisation in the Touran also extends to the bootspace. Storage compartments in the side walls of the cargo area and in the cargo floor can be used to secure numerous items. Even the warning triangle has a separate, newly designed storage compartment. For improved protection of cargo items of all types, the side walls of the bootspace were also redesigned and upholstered with carpeting.

In the classic five-seat configuration, the luggage section can handle up to 695 litres of cargo, and the maximum payload – depending on the version – is up to 660 kilograms. When all of the second row seats are removed and the third row seats are lowered, the maximum cargo capacity increases to 1,913 litres; on the five-seater with the second row seats removed, it is a full 1,989 litres. This means that new generation Touran owners will never have to face transport problems. And that is how it should be.

Photos Courtesy www.unitedpictures.com

Volkswagen Passat named Used Car of the Year by What Car?

2009-09-26T09:54:00.001+09:30

Volkswagen has been honoured with two class victories and the Passat has been named overall Used Car of the Year by What Car? magazine.

The What Car? Used Car of the Year judging panel was made up of experts from all areas of the motor industry including car dealerships, auction houses and experts from What Car?

The 2005 five door Golf GTI claimed victory in the highly competitive Sports Car category, while the 2006 Passat 1.9-litre TDI S claimed victory in the Family Car category as well as the overall title of Used Car of the Year.

The Passat impressed the judges with its mix of value for money, reliability, driver involvement and high levels of comfort and safety features.

The Golf GTI was considered to be all things to all men; blending the practicality of a five seat hatchback with performance from the 2.0-litre 200 PS engine and high levels of equipment.

In addition to these category victories, a further six Volkswagen models were also shortlisted in their respective categories. The Polo BlueMotion 1.4-litre TDI (Green Car), Golf 1.6-litre FSI (Small Family Car), Touran 1.9-litre TDI SE (MPV), Passat Estate 1.9-litre TDI S (Estate), Touareg 2.5-litre TDI (SUV) and Phaeton 3.2-litre V6 (Executive) were all placed in the top five.

John French, National Used Car Manager for Volkswagen UK commented: ‘We are extremely proud to receive these awards from What Car? magazine. To win two categories and the overall title in such a competitive marketplace is fantastic and will be a real boost to our Retailer network.’

French continued: ‘It is also great to see so many other Volkswagen models included in the category shortlists. It is a real credit to Volkswagen’s consistent focus on build quality and reliability that we have so many models represented and they are perform so strongly.’

It’s not only the products which make Volkswagen a good used buy. Volkswagen also offers the Approved Used Programme, which allows customers to buy with complete peace of mind. All cars are sold with a multipoint check, history checks, up to 12 month’s warranty and breakdown assistance and a 30 day exchange plan.

Volkswagen Saveiro - La Fortuna TVC

2009-09-26T09:48:00.001+09:30

Volkswagen Triumphs at Towcar Awards with New Golf

2009-09-26T09:47:00.000+09:30

Volkswagen has won the top prize at The Caravan Club Towcar of the Year Awards, with the sixth-generation Golf, which went on sale in January this year, claiming the £16,000-£20,000 price category as well as the prestigious title of Caravan Club Towcar of the Year 2010.

The winning model, the Golf SE 2.0-litre TDI 140 PS, particularly impressed the 10 judges with strong performances when towing in a variety of situations, practicality as a caravanning family car and high quality cabin.

The 28 cars tested in this year’s competition were put through their paces at the Millbrook Proving Ground in Bedfordshire for their towing ability, acceleration, braking, ability to cope with demanding hill starts and an assessment of usability in terms of everyday caravanning.

Explaining the judges’ decision to award the Golf the top accolade, driving judge Barry Williams commented: ‘Absolutely faultless stability made the Golf steadfast on the test track and when the punchy engine had whisked its way to 60 mph it was still ready to accelerate, even in sixth gear. Agile handling enables the car to tackle the most demanding route. The Volkswagen Golf SE 2.0-litre TDI 140 PS is a truly capable towing vehicle and a worthy winner.’

Williams continued: ‘The Golf is now in its sixth generation and remains Europe’s best car. It’s not difficult to see why as soon as you sit inside. The Golf has always had a reputation for good build quality and attention to detail but, after 26 millions sales and over 34 years, the company has produced a car that is the quietest and safest yet.’

The awards were presented at a ceremony in London, and the trophy was collected by Chris Craft, Director of Volkswagen UK.

On receiving the trophy, Craft said: ‘We’re delighted to accept this award from The Caravan Club. Since launch, the Golf has received a number of accolades, but this one is particularly important. More than one million drivers in the UK use their cars for towing and the Golf is the best-selling Volkswagen here. It is therefore obvious that the Caravan Club’s expert judges have provided us with a fantastic commercial opportunity and we intend to make the most of it.’

Scirocco R vs Golf R Promo.

2009-09-26T09:38:00.002+09:30

Volkswagen Honoured in BusinessCar Techies 2009

2009-09-26T09:36:00.000+09:30

Volkswagen’s latest security system has been honoured at this year’s BusinessCar Techies Awards with the advanced electronic Intelligent Key being named Best Security Device.

A new standard feature on all Volkswagen Touareg 4x4 and Phaeton models, the key maintains a record of whether the car has been locked and alarmed. By simply pressing a button on the key and looking at the red light indicator, an owner can check, even when they are not with the car, the ‘locked’ status of their vehicle. It can also provide vital evidence to insurers and fleet managers as they can confirm by interrogating the car key’s data chip whether the vehicle was secured before any theft or break-ins occurred.

Tristan Young, Editor-in-Chief of BusinessCar commented: ‘Unlike almost all of the other categories where we knew who the likely entries would be, the Best Security Device Techie was won by a device BusinessCar has never written about before. The Volkswagen Intelligent Key is simple to use, useful and clever, which is just what the BusinessCar Technies are about.’

In addition, the highly efficient new Volkswagen Polo BlueMotion was highly commended in the Best Green Development (manufacturer) category. On sale next year, it is expected to return 85 mpg and produce just 87 g/km of CO2, which matches or exceeds the capabilities of hybrid vehicles currently on sale, and yet is conventional to drive and maintain.

On receiving the award, Vincent Kinner, Head of Volkswagen Fleet Services commented: ‘We are extremely proud to receive this Techie award for the Intelligent Key from BusinessCar, particularly as it was voted for solely by the publication’s readership, which is such an influential group within the fleet arena. The commendation for the Polo BlueMotion is also a fantastic result prior to the vehicle’s market entry next year.’

Car News TV - First Look 2010 Golf VI Wagon

2009-09-26T09:35:00.004+09:30

Car News TV coverage of VW at IAA Frankfurt Motor Show 2009

2009-09-26T09:27:00.007+09:30

New Saveiro reaches the market fully renovated with Space Cab option

2009-08-26T18:44:00.008+09:30

Saveiro Trooper (Space Cab)

Press Release google translated from Portuguese

In a year with many new features, the New Saveiro is one of the most important release of Volkswagen of Brazil. Besides being an entirely new vehicle, the pickup comes with the novelty of the extended cab option that should attract a greater number of consumers, for its versatility.

Entirely renovated, with attractive design, excellent versatility and robustness, a new member of the line Volkswagen is able to meet fully the requirements of a commercial application, and the expectations of those seeking an ideal vehicle for recreation.

According to Thomas Schmall, president of Volkswagen Brazil, with New Saveiro a mark gives an extremely important step to increase its participation in the compact pickup segment and further strengthen its market position: "We are sure that we deliver to consumers better and more attractive pickup in its segment. "

The main concern was the Volkswagen needs and wishes of consumers in four clinics conducted before and during project execution. The result is a vehicle above all practical and dynamic appearance, while maintaining the brand identity.

A Nova Saveiro shares with Gol and Voyage engine EA-111 1.6 VHT MQ200 and transmission components, efficiency proven by customers of the two models. The pickup is available in two versions: New Saveiro 1.6, ideal for consumers seeking a vehicle for day-to-day and New Saveiro 1.6 Trooper, perfect for consumers with a more sporty and likes exclusivity. The first version can also be equipped with the Trend package, which includes a series of options aimed at the public that visual search and specialty items.

Both versions have wheelbase 152 mm longer than that of the Gol and Voyage. Simultaneously, the gauges also rose 47 mm front and 108 mm in the rear axle. The expansion of these dimensions allowed the increase of load capacity, greater stability and expansion of interior space. These features have led to the development of an entirely new design.

Both the extended version as a simple cabin, the body of New Saveiro was developed to provide the driver and passenger an excellent level of comfort. Besides the large availability of space, ease of access through wide doors and with three degrees of openness are the results of this concern. An important detail is the new guard with rear sliding window, which aligns with the same surface when closed, an innovation inspired by modern European vans.

Very important for performance and economy, aerodynamics deserved special attention, involving virtual environment studies and wind tunnel. A Nova Saveiro has the lowest drag coefficients in the category: Cx = 0.359 for the extended cab and Cx = 0.378 in the cabin simple.

Among many other firsts in the segment, the New Saveiro has an innovative system for opening the lid of the bucket. To reduce stress and avoid accidents, was installed a damper that smooths the movement of the lid.

The tire is placed under the body, increasing the available space in the cabin. It can only be accessed when the lid of the bucket, which has key in all versions, is open. The pickup also has parking sensors in rear bumper, another novelty in the category.

The development of New Saveiro demanded thousands of hours of research and development, including wider use of virtual simulation (using the new Virtual Reality Center of Volkswagen, unique in Latin America), destructive testing, durability testing and staff training. Shooting tests, performed in streets and roads and test tracks of Brazil and Germany, totaled no less than 1.3 million miles.

The main advantages of New Saveiro:
• Reduced front overhang (-26mm): the best ratio
vehicle, better load distribution
• Increased height of the door opening (+32 mm): better
Accessibility
• Maximum height (+58 mm): best proportion of vehicle
• Largest area of head height (+8 mm): more comfort for driver and passenger
• Higher position of the occupant (+ 28.8 mm): better
perception of the external environment, better drivability
and comfort in accessing the interior of the vehicle
• Greater wheelbase (152mm +): better load distribution,
more stability and better performance
. Extended cab version: more comfort, more space
internal possibility of accommodation in the cabin load
• Lower back swing (-84mm): better distribution
load better proportion and greater vehicle stability
• Increased rear ramp angle (+2.8 º): more mobility,
better condition location
• Greater gauge front and rear (+47 mm and +108 mm): higher
stability, greater distance between the boxes on wheels
bucket (higher volume of cargo)
• Increased length and height of bucket (+18 mm and
+ 57mm): higher volume and better accommodation of cargo
• Greater elbow space (+10 mm) for greater comfort
driver and passenger.

Saveiro Trooper

Saveiro 1.6 Trend

Saveiro 1.6 (Space Cab)

Quatro Rodas First Look at 2010 Saveiro

2009-08-22T13:48:00.001+09:30

First Look: 2010 Volkswagen Saveiro (Brazil)

2009-08-22T10:45:00.009+09:30

Brazilian press revealed yesterday the all new 2010 Volkswagen Saveiro.
The 2010 model is all new from the ground up based heavily on the Gol/Voyage platform which itself is based around the fourth (PQ24) and fifth (PQ25) generation Polo platform.

New Saveiro this time takes on a Spacecab bodystyle to target the South American market competitors Chevrolet Montana and FIAT Strada.
Saveiro will be available in three specifications Saveiro 1.6 Saveiro Trend and top of the line Saveiro Trooper.

The engine is from Volkswagen Brazil and uses TotalFlex technology so the buyer can fuel their vehicle with any mixture of Ethanol or Petrol (Gasoline); the 1.6 VHT produces 101hp(petrol)-104hp(ethanol).

First Look: 2010 Volkswagen CrossFox (Brazil)

2009-08-22T10:42:00.004+09:30

As revealed by the image courtesy of Quatro Rodas and members of volkspage.net the 2010 CrossFox/Fox will adopt the new 'La Semplicta' VW Family look.

Text states it will be powered by VW Brazil's 1.6 VHT (Volkswagen High Torque) Total Flex (ethanol/petrol); so expect around 101-104hp depending what fuel is used or mixture.

Also in far right bottom corner you'll notice a Golf 6 inspired interior to replace that nasty chocolate tray inspired one.

Debut around October with Fox facelift.

New generation of the Transporter, Multivan, Caravelle and California

2009-08-19T18:43:00.004+09:30

New versions of the best-selling series begin in autumn 2009

New Common Rail TDI drops fuel consumption by up to 1.9 litres

New front design in keeping with the stylistically refined Volkswagen Design DNA

New infotainment and driver assist systems for optimum comfort and safety

New generation of ESP including the hill-start assistant comes as standard in all vehicles

Hanover, 19th August 2009. The Transporter, Caravelle, Multivan and California – these are the four basic versions of an internationally best-selling vehicle so popular that is has sold in the millions. For its huge fan base, people like service providers, trades people, families, business people and globe trotters, these multi-talented vehicles are an automotive way-of-life, a symbol for endless mobility and variety. A few weeks after the Multivan and California are premiered at the IAA in Frankfurt in September 2009, a new generation of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle’s successful models will hit the roads. The new perfected version gives out even fewer emissions as well as being more efficient, economical, comfortable, elegant, intelligent and safer than ever before. Advance sales for all four basic versions will start at the IAA.

Refinement and high-tech features fit for a bestseller

The bestseller’s body design is now in line with Volkswagen’s new Design DNA. The new front design shows off the series in an even more elegant light. The series, which is known as the T5 by Volkswagen employees, has also been given a huge technical boost. Take the engines for example: the new Turbo diesel engines (TDI) are more efficient, exceptionally quiet and now fitted with a Common Rail Injection system. Thanks to the new TDI, fuel consumption levels have decreased by up to 1.9 litres and CO2 emissions have dropped by 52 g/km, so that all engines now fulfil the EU5 emission standards. What’s more, the new versions come with an optional 7-gear dual clutch gearbox (DSG) - an international first for this class of vehicle! As another optional extra, you can have the new four-wheel drive function (4Motion with 4th generation Haldex coupling), which allows you to drive off-road. Another revolutionary highlight from the new models is that, from the start of the year, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will be offering a 4Motion version in conjunction with DSG. Safety features have been further improved thanks to the standard hill-start assistant, refined ESP, a new hazard warning light for the brake lights (emergency brake lights) and new optional driver assist systems. In addition, the interior is fitted with new instruments, steering wheels, radio/navigation systems and textures on top of ergonomic perfection.

Four new Common Rail TDI and dual clutch gearboxes

With the new four-cylinder diesel engines with Common Rail Injection, the best-selling series in both Germany and Europe sets new benchmarks for both its economy and its kindness to the environment. The TDI (1,968 cm³) comes as either 62 kW / 84 PS, 75 kW / 102 PS, 103 kW / 140 PS or 132 kW /180 PS. The 140 PS engine is boosted by a turbocharger with variable turbine geometry, while Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has fitted a two-stage charger with bi-turbocharger in the top of the range 180 PS. This form of downsizing means that, for the first time in the Volkswagen Group, a compression ignition engine is being used in a vehicle of this performance range.

The greatest feature is the fuel-saving capacity. It is the first time in the world that a transporter, van or touring vehicle has been equipped with a 7-gear dual clutch gearbox (DSG), which allows fuel consumption in the 180 PS version to drop by up to 1.9 litres when compared with the previous 6-gear automatic. In the meantime, the 85 kW / 115 PS petrol engine will be carried over and now complies with EU5 emission standards. Compared to previous generations, Volkswagen were able to decrease CO2 emissions and fuel consumption levels by an average of 10 percent across the whole range. In vehicles with a manual gearbox and front-wheel drive, the CO2 emissions and fuel consumption levels* range from 7.2 litres / 190 g/km CO2 (84 PS and 102 PS) to 7.5 litres / 190 g/km CO2 (180 PS): that’s up to 0.9 litres less than ever before.

All four diesel engines respond extremely quickly and almost as soon as you have left idling speed as well! Even the smallest TDI engine with 84 PS has a maximum torque of 220 Newton metres from just 1,250 rpm. The 102 PS version goes to 250 Newton metres from 1,500 rpm, the 140 PS TDI hits a high of 340 Newton metres from 1,750 rpm while the 180 PS TDI propels into the crankshaft with an impressive 400 Newton metres from 1,500 rpm. And of course all versions are fitted with a particle filter.

The Multivan and Co. on track with the new Volkswagen Design DNA

Alongside other new design features, the new generations really stand out with a completely modified front end. Clear, horizontal lines give the series a timeless, elegant appearance. The ribs on the radiator grille are all black. In the Transporter (panel van, kombi, drop-side), Caravelle Trendline and California Beach the ribs are in matt black. Whereas the Caravelle Comfortline, Multivan (recreational and business van) and the California Comfortline (touring van) all feature black, high gloss ribs, each highlighted with a chrome stripe. The top stripe is visibly extended so that it stretches into the newly designed headlights. Also, for the first time, the newly designed fog lights in the rear bumper will act as static cornering lights as well. The rears of the Caravelle, Multivan and California have changed since the previous versions as they now have new rear lights which are in keeping the current Design DNA.

New driver assist systems and additional standard equipment

Depending on the vehicle’s equipment level, the new models are decked out with new 17" and 18" alloy wheels as well as new exterior mirrors, refined for improved aerodynamics. And for the first time, the exterior mirrors house the entire antenna system. As another ground-breaking feature in this class, the best-selling vehicles are now available with the Side Assist lane change assistant. As seen in the Touareg, this system uses LEDs in the exterior mirrors to warn the driver of any vehicles in the blind spot. What else is new: the tyre monitor display (TMD). The TMD constantly analyses how quickly the tyres are rotating. By comparing the different speeds, the system detects when the tyre pressure has dropped.

More new features: the Multivan Comfortline now comes with 16" alloy wheels. The Multivan Highline is now equipped with new 17" alloy wheels as well as chrome trims on the sides and rear.

The interior which crosses the bridge to passenger vehicles

The models’ interiors have been completely re-worked. Take the instruments for example: With a new design, they are lit in white from behind and highlighted by a chrome frame. Each of the new generation’s models will come with a gear shift recommendation display. The entire collection of radio and navigation systems has also been updated. The new top of the range device is the RNS 510 with touch screen and hard-drive navigation. The optional Dynaudio sound system delivers magnificent concert-hall acoustics. The USB interface, Media-IN, allows you to connect any devices, such as MP3 players, quickly and easily. New features on board are the controls for the semi- and fully-automatic air conditioning systems and the three-spoke steering wheels. Many of the versions have had some additions to their standard equipment. The Multivan Startline has seen some great improvements: for example, compared to the previous model, the new basic model now has a full trim interior and side and curtain airbags for the driver and front passenger. The finished bumper, which comes as standard, highlights the fact that the Startline is a member of the Multivan family.

Last but not least, the Transporter can be ordered with a new double front passenger seat bench which includes an integrated folding stowage compartment. And all this is coming soon: the new generations will be launched in the middle of October.

* = Fuel consumption and emissions levels taken from a closed Transporter with short wheelbase and normal roof

Adding the X Factor: Sportline Limited Edition X Model Introduced

2009-08-16T07:55:00.008+09:30

Volkswagen’s dynamic Sportline van range is proving more successful than ever. Despite the current economic climate, Sportline sales are already ahead of this time last year, and if success continues at the same rate, boosted by the introduction this week of a Transporter Sportline Limited Edition X model, sales are predicted to be over 30 per cent ahead of 2008.

Part of this great performance is thanks to the addition of the Caddy and Caddy Maxi Sportline models in late 2008, which are already about to exceed their sales forecast for 2009, plus the five-seat Transporter Sportline kombi model, also introduced last year, which has instantly become the most popular model in the range this year.

There will only be 150 of the Transporter Sportline Limited Edition X models, and they will be available in short and long wheelbase panel van or short wheelbase kombi. Each vehicle will be individually numbered, with a certificate for the owner.

In addition to the standard Transporter Sportline specification of 18-inch alloy wheels, chrome grilles and side sills, leather seats and front and rear spoilers, the Transporter Sportline X models gain distinctive, chrome and black ‘Dakar’ alloy wheels, ‘leather pack’ (leather steering wheel and gear lever), specially designed black and blue leather seats with limited edition numbered tag, Sportline floor mats, and rear parking sensors. There is a choice of two metallic paint colours – Reflex Silver, and for the first time for the Sportline range, Shadow Blue.

This unique specification and distinctive appearance is available for only £500 more than the equivalent Transporter Sportline T30, 174 PS, 2.5-litre TDI PD, with basic retail prices (including metallic paint) of £25,065 for the short wheelbase panel van, £25,545 for the long wheelbase panel van, and £26,805 for the kombi.

‘The success of the Sportline range proves that our customers still want a van that stands out from the crowd and creates a premium image,’ said Steve Reynolds, Head of Marketing, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.

The Transporter Sportline Limited Edition X is available to order now, with first deliveries expected with customers and at Volkswagen Van Centres in early October. Full details of the Sportline range and local Van Centres are available from www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk.

Interview with Mr Schomburg on naming the pickup - Amarok

2009-06-14T19:52:00.005+09:30

Mr Schomburg, how did you come up with the name, and what is the reason for the wolf analogy?

We were looking for an authentic name that fits the characteristics of our pickup just right and works perfectly around the globe.

The Amarok is a particularly powerful and robust vehicle with great stamina that can adapt to a great variety of situations. All these characteristics can also be attributed to the wolf.

Since our pickup is something special, we also had special requirements with regard to its name. I think we succeeded in finding a good match.

How do you pronounce the name and does it have the same associations everywhere?

All three syllables are equally stressed.

We made a point of choosing a name that also works easily in the Romance languages; that is, specifically in South America. To ensure this, all major markets were closely involved in the entire naming process. The literal meaning of "he loves stones" in the Romance languages fits right in with our pickup.

Will the vehicle be called Amarok in all the markets or are there exceptions?

The use of the name in such a great number of markets will be nearly unrivalled by other Volkswagen models. That is why the global presence and acceptance of the name was important to us. No exceptions are planned.

When will the vehicle be launched?

We are starting the launch in South America. The world premiere will take place in Argentina at the end of the year, starting our launch activities. The Amarok is set to hit South American dealerships from March. The European launch is planned for Summer 2010.

(Harald Schomburg is Chief of Sales and Marketing for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.)

Pickup from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles to be called Amarok

2009-06-05T12:25:00.004+09:30

Means "wolf" in Inuit

Symbolises strength and endurance

To be launched at the beginning of 2010 in South America

Amarok set to come to Europe afterwards

Hanover, 04 June 2009 – The new Volkswagen pickup is called Amarok. In Autumn 2009, the first pickup by a European volume manufacturer in South America is to be unveiled. The South American launch is set for Spring 2010, with the Amarok coming to Europe in the summer. With the Amarok, Volkswagen is seeking to enter global pickup markets dominated for the most part by Japanese manufacturers. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles already presented an impressive concept truck at last year's IAA Commercial Vehicles, providing a taste of the brand's new fourth model. The Amarok will be produced in Argentina at Volkswagen's "Pacheco" plant near Buenos Aires.The name Amarok comes from the language of the Inuit, who live in northern Canada and Greenland, and means wolf. The Inuit, one of the Eskimo peoples, regard the wolf as the king of the wilderness, an impressive figure due its strength, robustness, endurance and superiority.

This name also means "he loves stones" in the Romance languages, which are spoken in the major markets in Brazil and Argentina. In these markets, pickups are highly in demand as recreational and commercial vehicles due to their versatility. The Amarok's reliability and suitability for off-road driving will make it a very attractive proposition.

"This name fits to a tee the characteristics of our pickup, which will set new standards in its class. We took great care selecting this name, which can be used globally. The Amarok is meant to invoke positive associations in all relevant international markets and make a more convincing argument than its established competitors right from the start," says Stephan Schaller, CEO of the brand Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.

The Amarok is the first pickup of this kind from a European manufacturer and will face competition in the one-tonne class mostly from Asia. The sixth model from the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles brand, which follows the Caddy, Transporter (or Multivan) and Crafter as well as the Saveiro and T2, both of which are available exclusively in South America, is a significant component in the Volkswagen Group's growth strategy and opens a new segment for Volkswagen. Schaller comments, "The Amarok lifts our brand into a new, even more international dimension. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is proud to develop, build and sell this vehicle, which is extremely important for the growth of the entire Group and constitutes a logical strategic addition to the global range."

Developed from scratch, the Amarok will be launched as a double-cab pickup with four-wheel drive. The single-cab version will be available at a later date. The pickup features not only state-of-the-art, robust engineering but also efficient engines and current Volkswagen styling. The concept car shown at the IAA gives a first impression. State-of-the-art, powerful yet efficient common rail turbo diesel injection (TDI) of the next generation will be used in the powertrain. The fuel consumption and emissions for the Amarok will achieve the new best values for the pickup segment.

The Amarok is set be launched first in South America and Central America in Spring 2010, followed by Russia and Europe as well as Africa and Australia.

AMI Leipzig 2009: World Premiere Golf GTD

2009-03-28T08:18:00.000+10:30

5.3 liter fuel economy and 222 km/h redefine the idea of sportiness

New Golf GTD with 170-PS TDI: Advance sales begin early May
GTD and new GTI are conceptual soulmates

Wolfsburg / Leipzig, 27 March 2009 - After the Polo, the BlueMotion offensive and the Golf GTI, Volkswagen is pulling the next arrow out of its quiver: this time it is the Golf GTD. It is extremely fuel efficient yet exceedingly sporty, and it is debuting as a world premiere at the Auto Mobil International in Leipzig (March 28 to April 05). The GTD code letters carry on a tradition: the first Golf GTD appeared back in 1982 – it was the GTI among diesels. Now Volkswagen has perfected the various aspects of sportiness. The new Golf GTD with its 125 kW / 170 PS is aimed at all diesel fans who value a maximum in dynamic performance. This is where the GTD shows a clear affinity to the new GTI (155 kW / 210 PS). While the GTI is in its own league with an efficient turbo gasoline engine that offers the same performance as far more expensive sports cars, the Golf GTD is making its appearance with phenomenal fuel economy. Every 100 kilometers, just 5.3 liters of fuel flow through the piezo injection valves of the common rail engine that can hardly be pegged as a diesel. That is equivalent to CO2 emissions of just 139 g/km. This contrasts with a top speed of 222 km/h and 8.1 seconds for the sprint to 100 km/h.

Range of about 1,000 kilometer
As on the GTI, the GTD’s 6-speed manual transmission may be swapped out for an optional 6-speed DSG – which in the eyes of many experts is the most efficient automatic of our times. The Golf GTD with DSG reaches a top speed of 220 km/h; it accelerates to 100 km/h in 8.1 seconds and consumes 5.6 liters diesel on average (147 g/km CO2). These low fuel consumption values take both GTD variants to distances of about 1,000 kilometers on one tank of fuel (55 liters).

The GTD equipped with standard sport chassis and 17-inch alloy wheels (“Seattle” type) bears a close relationship to the GTI, in its highly agile handling properties as well as in its parallels in appearance and features.

GTD exterior
The exterior clearly indicates that this is the sportiest Golf with a diesel engine. Take the front end, for example: the bumper, radiator grille and headlights are a 1:1 match with the GTI. However, the red horizontal stripes in the radiator grille are styled in chrome on the GTD. At the rear, the turbo-diesel sports a modified diffuser. Even though no GTD emblem comes with the car purchase, the diesel version of the Golf can be recognized by its dual chrome tailpipes on the left side of the diffuser (the GTI has one tailpipe on the left and one on the right).

GTD sound
Sound – sporty sound – has not traditionally been a particular strength of diesel engines. However, the GTD’s new common rail engine is different. Since it no longer has a superimposed “hammering” sound that was previously typical of diesels, engineers were able to fine tune its acoustics for the first time. This is accomplished by a special sound generator, which outputs a sonorous tone, especially in the lower engine speed range. The electromagnetic sound generator evaluates engine speed, momentary power demand and vehicle speed data obtained via the car’s CAN bus and tunes the engine sound that can be heard in the interior.

GTD interior
Volkswagen’s GT philosophy is also reflected in the interior. It expresses itself in standard high-end sport seats, a 3-spoke leather steering wheel whose curvature flattens at the bottom (GTD signature in the center chrome badge), leather parking brake lever and leather gearshift boot with stitching in contrasting color. However, unlike in the GTI the color is not red but light gray. The same applies to the sport seats in “Jacky” pattern: The color chosen for the flat-felled seams are an elegant light gray (“Art Grey”) instead of red (“Flash Red”). The seats themselves are styled in a “Black-White” color combination.

GTD safety and convenience
Other standard features of the Golf GTD include details such as a black roofliner and black roof pillar trim, special interior accents, seven airbags including knee airbag on the driver’s side, automatic climate control (“Climatronic”), front fog lights with chrome framing, daytime running lights, ESP, a winter package (with heated windshield washer nozzles, heated front seats, headlight cleaning system and low washer fluid indicator light) and the RCD 210 radio system. Nonetheless, the most important component of standard GTD equipment is still the Common Rail TDI with 170 PS being used in the Golf for the first time.

TDI technology in detail
The 1,968 cm3 displacement engine is from a new TDI generation. It delivers its maximum power at 4,200 rpm. The engine – as sporty as it is fuel efficient – develops its 350 Newton-meter maximum torque between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. Its specific torque is 177.8 Newton-meter per liter engine displacement. The upshot is that in practically any driving situation, the sixteen-valve four-cylinder engine offers power equivalent to that of a six-cylinder sports car engine.

About the technology: Fuel induction is handled by a common rail system. Fuel injection pressures of up to 1,800 bar and special eight-hole injection nozzles achieve exceptionally fine atomization of the diesel fuel. The eight-hole injection nozzles are driven by what are known as piezo in-line injectors. In this process, electrically controlled piezo crystals – boosted by hydraulics – initiate injection in fractions of a second. Compared to conventional solenoid valves, piezo technology enables more flexible injection processes with smaller and more precisely metered quantities of fuel. The results are a very quiet and pleasantly soft running engine, exceptionally quick response and the excellent fuel economy and emissions values already mentioned.

Another feature having a positive effect on the car’s acoustics is the maintenance-free toothed timing belt for the camshaft. The conversion to common rail technology and many other acoustic measures, such as a noise-damping film in the windshield, make the new Golf GTD one of the quietest diesel models in its class. In addition, the GTD will fulfill limits of the Euro-5 emissions standard. Advance sales of the Golf GTD in Germany will already begin in early May. And the prospects for a successful market launch look good. Because this sporty Volkswagen fits in perfectly with our times.

AMI Leipzig 2009: World Premiere Golf Plus BiFuel

2009-03-28T08:17:00.000+10:30

Low-emissions Golf Plus BiFuel offers significant cost advantages
New Golf Plus BiFuel is safer and more durable than aftermarket solutions

Wolfsburg / Leipzig, March 2009. In a world premiere at the Auto Mobil International in Leipzig, Volkswagen is presenting the new Autogas (LPG) version of the Golf Plus. Its bivalent drive – it is easy to switch over to gasoline driving – reduces costs and emissions. When the Golf Plus BiFuel is powered by LPG (Liquefied Petroleum
Gas), its environmen tal balance sheet shows a greater than 10 percent reduction in CO2 emissions when matched up with a comparable gasoline engine.

Safer and more durable than aftermarket solutions
The system being presented in the Golf Plus BiFuel offers significant advantages compared to aftermarket Autogas systems. For one, unlike aftermarket solutions the car has been crash tested together with allof its fuel tanks – so it is safer. Second, the engine was specificallydesigned for LPG operation and is more durable than engines originally developed for just gasoline. The long-term quality of the Golf BiFuel has been verified in extensive durability testing. A full warranty and
access to the large Volkswagen service network are pluses too. All of this is being offered at the same price as an aftermarket retrofit. In Autogas mode, the Golf Plus BiFuel’s 1.6 liter four-cylinder engine outputs a power of 72 kW / 98 PS and consumes an average of 9.8 liters of LPG per 100 kilometers (159 g/km CO2). In gasoline mode, the Golf Plus BiFuel consumes a still economical 7.5 liters Super per 100 kilometers (179 g/km CO2).

1,100 kilometer range
In addition, the Autogas tank (43 liter effective volume at storage pressure of 8 to 10 bar) – with its space-saving installation in the spare wheel recess – and the gasoline tank (55 liter) together propel the car to a theoretical range of greater than 1,100 kilometers. In pure LPG mode, the car’s range is about 440 kilometers. The network of LPG filling stations is tightly interwoven across Europe; in Germany alone there are over 4,700 filling stations. Incidentally, the filling tube for the
LPG is easy to access right next to the familiar location of its gasoline counterpart.

AMI Leipzig 2009: California Beach Cape2Cape

2009-03-27T20:44:00.006+10:30

Special model was created as homage to 24,000 km Cape2Cape tour
Standard pop-up roof and climate control, optionally with all-wheel drive

Hannover/ Leipzig, March 2009. In commemoration of the successful 24,000 kilometer long Cape2Cape tour by extreme adventurer Joachim Franz, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is now offering – similar to the five yellow California Beach vans that made the trip – an attractive special model. The California Cape2Cape is for customers looking for a vehicle that fits in with their outdoor activities.

In the Cape2Cape, a special model based on the California Beach with a manual pop-up roof, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is taking up the global adventurer theme. Inspired by the successful nine-week driving tour of extreme adventurer Joachim Franz, who started at the North Cape in Norway and finished in Cape Town, South Africa, the look of the California Beach was intentionally made to be robust.

The Cape2Cape targets recreational sports enthusiasts and adven turous outdoor vacationers seeking a vehicle that matches their lifestyle activities and who want to overnight at their destinations too.

Available with or without all-wheel drive, the camper stands on 17-inch steel wheels with size 235/55 R 17 tires. Unpainted bumpers and side skirts emphasize the van’s optional duty on trails off the beaten path.

Higher ground clearance and off-road tires are available as special equipment for the 4Motion models, together with a differential lock and air filter for dusty regions.

The van sports a variety of standard convenience features. For example, a climate control system and sunshades provide for comfortable temperatures in the interior.
The movable three-person fully reclining bench seat makes it possible to travel with up to five persons. An electrical convenience package and central locking with RF remote control simplify everyday use, while a Hill Hold Control feature assists
drivers in their “play” with the clutch and main brake.

The base price of the Cape2Cape California Beach – in which all TDI engines from 62 kW to 128 kW are available – is 39,300 Euros gross price (for the 62 kW TDI). The price advantage of the special model compared to a similarly equipped standard production model is 1,598 Euros. Savings can extend to 2,782 Euros when all optional packages are ordered, such as the comfort and convenience packages.

The California Beach was designed to be a cost-effective multi-purpose van, an entry level model to a range of recreational vehicles. It is “purist” in the best sense of the word, and it limits itself to the essentials. With just a few hand movements, the van converts into a camper for two persons.

The load-bearing structure in the Beach is a rail system embedded in the floor; it ensures secure mounting of practical and removable furniture and appliance modules.
It is easy to convert the bench seat into a bed with just a few hand movements.
Storage drawers under the bench seat in the five-seat Beach offer ample space for the accessories used by campers. A cushioned cargo area cover serves as the necessary extension for a full-length bed.

Curtains attached by magnet provide for shade. Frame inserts that are clipped at the windshield and rear window prevent intrusive glances.
Classic roundtable seating – for a maximum of five persons – is created by turning the front seats around and moving the rear bench seat to any desired position in the rear compartment.

The table needed here is housed in the side panel of the sliding door, and it can be set up on its four legs either inside or outside of the vehicle. Additional outdoor seating is provided by two standard camping chairs, which are stowed under the bed extension in the cargo area.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles achieves new record values in sales, turnover and profits in 2008

2009-03-26T06:09:00.002+10:30

503,000 deliveries to customers in 2008
Operative profit up by 23 percent
Market share expected to increase in 2009
Business year 2009 reflects difficult market situation
Long term growth objectives stay in place

Hanover, March 25, 2009: despite the difficult background conditions in the second half of 2008 Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles sold more vehicles than ever before, and also achieved new record values in turnover and operative profit. “All in all, 2008 was a very good year for our brand”, emphasized Stephan Schaller, CEO of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles , on Wednesday at the annual press conference in Hanover. However, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles could not escape the effects of the dramatic worldwide drop in demand for commercial vehicles. “We are in a strong enough position to master the crisis, and to sell more automobiles than before once the difficult market situation has been resolved”, said Schaller.

Deliveries in 2008
Last year, for the first time, the company was able to sell more than half a million light and heavy commercial vehicles worldwide. With a total of 502,964 (previous year’s total: 488,726) deliveries to customers were up by 2.9 percent compared to the year before. The most-sold product in 2008, with 178,007 unit sales (previous year: 191,205) was the T5 with its Transporter, Caravelle, Multivan and California models. The Caddy also continued on the road to success, with 151,565 vehicles delivered in 2008 (as compared to 147,133 in the previous year), representing an increase of 3 percent. The Crafter, too, continued its upward trend, achieving 10.7 percent growth, with 51,101 units sold (previous year’s figure: 46,161).

Thus Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles was able to increase its lead in the European market. “With a total of more than 332,000 unit sales, we have successfully defended our ‘title’ as European champions and have pulled even further away from the runners-up”, Schaller pointed out. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles share of the European market in 2008 was up 0.4 percent, at 15 percent.

Outside Europe, too, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles continued to gain ground. The Saveiro and T2 models, which are both produced and sold in South America, topped their previous year’s performance by more than 17 percent, achieving unit sales of 67,270 (previous year’s figure: 57,446). The class of heavy commercial vehicles also showed positive development. The 55,021 units delivered in 2008 (as compared to 46,781 in the previous year) represented a plus of 17.6 percent – and thus also a new sales record.

Development of results 2008
The most important financial indicators also developed positively in the business year 2008, attaining new record values. “We have achieved the good figures for turnover and profits not only by making more deliveries, but also by practising stringent cost and efficiency management,” explained Klaus-Dieter Schürmann, member of the board of management with responsibility for finances and integration technology.

Turnover on the markets improved by 3.3 percent, rising to 9.6 thousand million Euro. Operative profit went up by 23 percent to 375 million Euro, an all-time record. Reduced product and materials costs made an important contribution to this figure, as did the substantially better performance of purchasing. Investments by the brand rose by 92 percent compared to the previous year, amounting to 275 million Euro. Net cash flow was once again clearly positive, at 183 million Euro. Return on capital reached double figures for the first time, with a value of 11.5 percent. The profit margin went up to 3.9 percent.

“Viewed in the context of the increasingly harsh economic situation in the second half of the year, we have attained an excellent result – the best balance achieved by our brand so far. This means that despite the present crisis we have the financial basis to continue pursuing our long term growth aims“, Schürmann stressed.

Looking ahead in 2009
Since the middle of the second half-year period, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has also seen itself confronted by a radically different business climate. “We cannot ignore this development, and we shall be selling fewer automobiles this year than in 2008”, Schaller said. “In this environment, we want to gain a bigger share of the market.”

He perceives the brand as a specialist for light commercial vehicles, but as being in a sufficiently strong position “to keep on course, even in stormy weather “.

At the same time, he says, the product range will continue to expand. As well as further variants of the Caddy, T5 and Crafter, the most significant addition will be the new Pickup, which Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will be launching first on the South American market at the end of 2009, with a later launch in Europe. “The new Pickup will bring our brand into a different dimension, and enable us to gain access to new markets“, the CEO of the brand emphasized.

Strategy 2018 stays in place
The brand is continuing to stay with its long-term growth objectives and plans to be selling approximately 750,000 light commercial vehicles in 2018. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles sees great growth potential for commercial vehicles, particularly in the BRIC countries – Brazil, Russia, India and China. “The market for commercial vehicles will grow again in the long term, and we want to make sure of a big slice of the market. We can do this by deliberately focusing on our core business: pickups, panel vans and the relevant superstructures and variants “, the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles chief is convinced. As well as the distinctive profile of its own brand, he feels that being part of a strong enterprise is the factor that constitutes Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ decisive advantage over competitors.

Source Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles

Golf GTI - In Depth

2009-03-24T17:22:00.010+10:30

Golf GTI – New edition of a 1.7 million bestseller

Hans-Joachim Stuck worked on refinements to the new GTI

Wolfsburg / St. Tropez, 18 March 2009
"What else was there in 1976?" calls out "Strietzel", also known as Hans-Joachim Stuck, from the driver’s window as he starts up a first generation Golf GTI after more than thirty years. "Whenever a person had a chance to drive a 911, it was a real experience. And then all of a sudden this experience was possible in the GTI too. Clearly on a different level, but affordable for everyone. That was the genius of this car, and it has stayed that way right up to today. The new GTI is a prime example of this." Stuck – one of the true giants of international car racing – works closely with Volkswagen AG. As a representative and driver in car racing, and as an expert in chassis and powertrain tuning in vehicle development, he also put the final touches on the new Golf GTI together with the experts of team "Hackenberg". On the Nürburgring as well, where development chief Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg and Hans-Joachim Stuck competed in parallel, driving Sciroccos for glory and professional experience in last year’s 24-hour race.

Volkswagen is right at home on the Nürburgring’s North Loop. It has always been that way. And the GTI too. Even before sales of the GTI began, it was present on the track of the "Green Hell" before thousands of spectators in 1975 – as a pace car in the prototype stage with a two-barrel carburetor instead of electronic injection. The rest is history. Automotive history. "The 110-PS engine of the GTI", recalls Stuck, "had a willingness to rev that was fun from day one. There had been nothing like it before. That is why the first GTI made such a statement."

In 2004, the fifth Golf GTI brought back this legend more powerfully than ever before. Between the debut of the first generation and the production runout of the fifth generation, more than 1.7 million car buyers made the GTI a world bestseller. Now this is being followed up by the sixth GTI, even sharper and more confident than all of the others before it. A GTI whose chassis systems – with standard electronic transverse differential lock (XDS) – redefines behavior in curves and traction. A 240 km/h fast GTI that is more fun to drive with its powerful 155 kW / 210 PS turbo engine and yet only consumes 7.3 liters super unleaded (0.7 l/100 km improvement). A GTI that delivers audible dynamics with a sound generator and new exhaust system design (two tailpipes, one left and one right). A GTI that successfully transfers the tradition of the original version to the future.

German market launch of the sixth GTI will begin in just days. Sales start across Europe just after Easter. North America and Asia will follow in late summer – long ago the GTI success became an international phenomenon.

And Hans-Joachim Stuck (58) is more than just a figurehead of Volkswagen Motorsports and more than an expert who just looks for vehicle weaknesses. "Strietzel", the nickname given to him as a baby by his godmother, and by which he is still called today by friends, is a GTI fan: "We always had a GTI in the family, from the first to the sixth. The Pirelli Editions too. There were no gaps here. Even when I was under contract with BMW, I preferred to drive to the Nürburgring in a GTI. It was in a GTI that I drove 911 drivers to distraction on the North Loop. My wife was even driving a GTI when she first caught my attention."

Engine of the GTI
In the case of the Golf GTI generation VI, the fascination for Stuck began once again with the engine: "It is extremely important that the current GTI, like the last one, should be another turbo. This boosted high-tech engine fits in perfectly with our times. It is more fuel efficient than a large displacement engine, but thanks to the turbocharger it is just as athletic." And that is a key aspect of the Golf GTI tradition too: As early as the second generation, the G60 had an impressive boosted four cylinder engine (118 kW / 160 PS). Later, the era of boosted GTI engines really gained momentum with the fourth generation in the "Golf GTI 132 kW" (the exact name). The technology and times were ready for this approach. A limited edition (3,000 cars) of the 132 kW / 180-PS version was introduced on the GTI’s 25th anniversary in 2001. Although there had already been a 150-PS turbo, it did not yet have the aggressive punch of the anniversary version. With the launch of the fifth Golf GTI, an entirely new turbocharged four-cylinder engine was employed, which delivered a power of 147 kW / 200 PS. On the 30th anniversary of the GTI, a 169 kW / 230 PS turbo engine was introduced in the Golf GTI Edition 30. Somewhat later, this new engine also powered the second Pirelli GTI.

At exactly 155 kW / 210 PS, in terms of power level the new Golf GTI’s TSI engine is positioned between the last production GTI and the 30 Year Edition. Although its performance and displacement data might suggest an advanced development of the 200-PS engine, this was actually a new powerplant of the "EA888" generation of engines whose technical origins were in the 230-PS version.

The TSI that is used in the sixth GTI is a product of the second development stage of these highly agile engines. Compared to the first "EA888" development stage, this engine – optimized for transverse mounting in the new GTI – has new components such as modified pistons and piston rings, a regulated oil pump, a new vacuum pump, a new high-pressure fuel pump and a new mass airflow sensor. When used in the most powerful Golf today, the engine fulfills limits of the Euro-5 emissions standard.

Performance of the GTI
When it comes to emissions and fuel economy, the new 210-PS engine has advanced far ahead of the two previous GTI four-cylinder engines with 200 and 230 PS. To be specific, the 1,984 cm3 displacement TSI on the new GTI is content with just 7.3 liters fuel per 100 kilometers on average. On the 200-PS GTI, fuel consumption was 8.0 liters, and the 230-PS GTI came in at 8.2 liters per 100 kilometers. So the theoretical range of the sixth GTI is about 750 kilometers between fill-ups.

At 170 g/km, the engine also shows marked improvement in CO2 emissions. "And the new GTI," says Hans-Joachim Stuck, "succeeds in bridging the gap between a serious business car during the work week, and a competitor on the Nürburgring on the weekend." In this context, it should be noted that the first Golf GTI in 1976 had a power of exactly 81 kW / 110 PS and a top speed of 182 km/h, and at that time it was also one of the few cars to perform this balancing act.

The new GTI successfully addresses these aspects while attending to the property of most interest to GTI buyers – besides the car’s appearance – which is its dynamic performance. At a low 1,700 rpm the engine already develops its maximum torque of 280 Newton-meter. And this reserve torque is available as a constant value – exhibiting an ideal plateau in the torque curve that is not really a curve any longer – up to 5,200 rpm. Stuck says: "In practice, this means impressive power in all of life’s situations." The maximum power of the sixteen-valve engine with 9.6:1 compression ratio can be tapped over a speed range from 5,300 to 6,200 rpm.

The resulting package delivers enormous propulsive force; the car completes its acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.9 seconds, and the new Golf GTI handles a 1,000 meter sprint from a standstill in 27.3 seconds. Just as impressive is the engine’s elasticity. In fifth gear, the Volkswagen accelerates from 80 to 120 km/h in just 7.5 seconds. Even in sixth gear it only takes 9.5 seconds. Not until 240 km/h is a balance reached between air resistance (cw = 0.324) and power. The tachometer indicates 5,900 rpm at this top speed.

Like the previous model, for the new GTI an optional 6-speed dual clutch transmission (DSG) will be offered as an alternative to the 6-speed manual transmission (including standard upshift recommendation as on the BlueMotion). In this case, the Golf delivers a top speed of 238 km/h (at 5,920 rpm). Like the manually shifted GTI, the DSG version also accelerates to 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds. Its average fuel consumption of 7.4 liters (173 g/km CO2) nearly matches the excellent value of the manual transmission (7.3 liters).

Yet the numbers themselves only tell half of the story about the dual clutch transmission. Stuck: "The DSG is incredibly fast and precise. And the way in which the Golf GTI with DSG automatically double declutches when downshifting is a joy for any sports car driver. Interesting is the fact that the pedal position on the very first GTI, and of course also on the normal Golf, was laid out so that well-versed car drivers could double declutch properly." According to forecasts, about 30 percent of all GTI drivers will order the sporty Volkswagen with DSG.

Sound of the GTI
The engine and exhaust system of the new Golf GTI are making their appearance with an entirely unique and typical GTI sound. A sound that makes a very sporty impression yet does not irritate car occupants on long tours. On the exterior, the noise level is fully regulated by the newly developed GTI exhaust system. The only visible components of the exhaust system are the pair of chrome tailpipes integrated in the GTI’s black diffuser, one on the left and one on the right. Inside, a complex exhaust routing system produces the typical GTI sound. In parallel, it was possible to reduce the weight of the system and its back pressure. And that has a direct positive impact on driving performance and fuel economy. Moreover, a sound generator ensures that the sonorous engine acoustics are perfectly "mixed" in the car’s interior as well.

Chassis of the GTI
"Physical handling limits" always come into play when the safety reserves of a chassis need to be determined. The actual boundaries of the new Golf GTI’s physical handling limits are revealed when a driver like Hans-Joachim Stuck is at the wheel. Just a few laps in Hockenheim or on the Nürburgring or a few kilometers in the "Maritime Alps" on the mountain roads above Nice are sufficient for the former Formula-1 driver and endurance race world champion to very analytically describe why the Golf GTI drives at the level of significantly more expensive sports cars and – this is crucial – can also excite the drivers of such extremely expensive sports cars.

Stuck: "It becomes immediately apparent just how precisely the GTI tracks steering inputs. And this steering precision is directly reflected in driving quality. The production car chassis offers practically no hint of body roll. The car’s quasi lack of roll and pitch results in very safe driving behavior. However, the GTI not only handles with sports car stiffness; it is also very comfortable. The electronic damper control of its new DCC system, in particular, produces an ideal synthesis of great comfort and excellent handling properties in the GTI. There are of course many sporty cars that are simply too stiff. Yet this one is always right. That must be stated very clearly."

The sixth Golf GTI is equipped with a sport chassis; its front end was lowered by 22 millimeters, and its rear by 15 millimeters. The entire architecture of springs, dampers and rear stabilizers was completely re-tuned. In front, the familiar strut-type suspension operates with helical springs and telescoping shock absorbers. In the rear, an innovative multi-link suspension ensures that the ESP system seldom needs to intervene. The braking system is also extremely durable. Distinctive here are the red painted brake calipers.

Sportier and safer with XDS
For the first time in a Volkswagen, the XDS electronic transverse differential lock is being used. It significantly improves traction and handling properties. Technically speaking, XDS is a functional extension of the electronic limited-slip differential (EDS) integrated in the ESP system.

In fast curve driving, as soon as the innovative electronics detects that the wheel at the inside of the curve on the GTI’s driven front axle is insufficiently loaded, the ESP hydraulics specifically builds up braking pressure at this wheel to restore optimal traction. So XDS acts as a type of transverse differential lock that compensates for the understeering that is typical on front-wheel drive vehicles when driving fast through curves.

The results: Thanks to XDS, driving behavior is significantly more precise and neutral; drivers perceive this as more like the handling characteristics of a car with all-wheel drive than those of front-wheel drive. Hans-Joachim Stuck: "Beyond the GTI’s already good chassis layout, XDS gives the car an enormous measure of driving stability. And it leads to greater driving enjoyment, since it reduces understeering. Experienced sports car drivers will be much more active underway. Yet, XDS is a very important safety feature for normal drivers too, because they will not experience any unpleasant surprises with the GTI. It simply would no longer press ahead."

Dynamic yet comfortable with DCC
In addition, the dynamic chassis control (DCC) system mentioned by Strietzel is available on the new GTI. It continually reacts to the roadway and driving situation and modifies the damper characteristic accordingly. The driver perceives the significant advances in comfort and dynamic performance directly. During acceleration, braking and steering actions, damping is stiffened in just fractions of a second to optimally satisfy vehicle dynamic requirements and reduce pitch and roll movements as described by Stuck.

To let drivers choose the desired system behavior, besides the "Normal" program with a basic medium setting, DCC on the Golf GTI also offers the "Sport" and "Comfort" modes that are activated by a pushbutton above the shift gate. In "Sport" mode, the power steering is also tuned for greater dynamic responsiveness.

Cruising safely with ACC
For the first time, the distance control system ACC (Adaptive Cruise Control) will be offered on the Golf GTI starting in late summer 2009. When ACC is activated, the system automatically brakes and accelerates the GTI within a speed window from 30 to 210 km/h. Above all, when cruising at constant speed, e.g. at the speed limit on the freeway, ACC offers a significant plus in comfort and safety.

Distance control is implemented with a laser sensor in the rearview mirror that continually scans the distance to the vehicle in front of the car and its speed using five laser beams. The system operates successfully in curve driving too. ACC is controlled via a lever on the steering column. Important: As soon as the ACC system reaches its limits, the driver is asked to resume control by visual and acoustic warning signals.

Park Assist Generation II
Another high-end technology on the new Golf GTI is the optional Park Assist park steering assistant. The second generation of the system is used here. It enables nearly automatic back-up parking parallel to the roadway. The driver just needs to actuate the gas pedal, brake and (in the manually shifted version) clutch, while the GTI steers into the pre-scanned space by sensor control. Previously, the space had to be at least 1.4 meters longer than the vehicle; now 1.1 meters is sufficient. In addition, the system now enables multiple forward-reverse stages in parking. Park Assist deactivates itself as soon as the driver manually intervenes in steering. When the GTI is ordered with this system, the acoustic proximity warning system ParkPilot (front and rear) and Hill Hold Control are included too.

Bi-xenon headlights with curve lighting
As an option, Volkswagen is offering the Golf GTI with completely redesigned bi-xenon headlights, including dynamic curve lighting. The headlights swivel through a steering radius of up to 13 degrees to the outside and seven degrees to the inside. The styling of the headlights closely matches the GTI’s sporty character. The interior dual modules (xenon outboard, parking light / turn signals inboard) each have a chrome pod through which a very impressive visual image projects. Placed low below the bumper – and also GTI-specific in design – are the vertically aligned and always standard front fog lights.

Interior of the GTI
If there is such a thing as total ergonomic perfection, then it is to be found in the new GTI. Stuck: "This ambiance lacks nothing that a person would have in a luxury sedan. Nonetheless, the interior is uncompromisingly sporty. This begins with the seats. They offer a high degree of long touring comfort and are equally fit to run a 24-hour race. The GTI is super comfortable, super ergonomic. You can adjust everything on the seat. But there is no need to. You just climb in, move the seat forward once then back, and that is it. Sit down. Done. A perfect fit." A genuine compliment.

The Golf GTI is equipped with standard sport seats, which – as once before – are upholstered in a tartan fabric pattern ("Jacky"). Leather seats ("Vienna") are available as an option. A lumbar support integrated in the seats is positioned by a lever on the side of the seat. For safety, whiplash-optimized head restraints (WOKS) are also on board. The head restraints precisely counteract whiplash in case of an accident. The GTI logo has been worked into the WOKS material.

Additional features: Naturally, this Golf also has pedals with brushed stainless steel caps, a customized GTI gearshift lever in aluminum look, a leather steering wheel with grip recesses and GTI emblem; naturally there are decorative red seams on the steering wheel, gearshift surround and leather parking brake grip; naturally the roofliner is black, and so is the pillar trim. Naturally, because this Golf is a GTI. That is why the decorative inserts in the doors and instruments are also customized with "Black Stripe" style elements – black, high-gloss accents in metallic look. In any case, the GTI breaks through class boundaries with its high-end surfaces and features that are pleasing to the touch and the eye. The impression made by the materials and their workmanship, details like brushed chrome accents and elegant round instruments give the impression of actually sitting in a car of the next higher class, or in a far more expensive sports car. In contrast to most sports cars, however, the Golf GTI offers ample space for five persons. Its cargo capacity of between 350 and 1,305 liters also ensures that GTI drivers can handle nearly all of the challenges of daily life with confidence.

Legendary stylistic elements of sportiness shape the new era GTI

New GTI forges links to first generation of the sports car icon
The new GTI was created under the direction of Walter de Silva (Head of Group Design), Klaus Bischoff (Head of Brand Design) and Marc Lichte (Head of Exterior Design). And the car that de Silva, Bischoff and Lichte realized together does great credit to the first GTI. "We wanted a consistently clear GTI design, a car that has power, but style as well", is how Walter de Silva sums it up. "Also cast in stone was the goal of evoking the character of the first GTI a bit more", says Klaus Bischoff. "And that is why it was decided that – with the exception of the aerodynamically important rear spoiler – the new GTI would not have a single exterior add-on, unlike the usual practice in this segment", emphasizes Marc Lichte.

Wide, powerful GTI front end
Even the first GTI generation already exhibited a consistent horizontal alignment of elements in the radiator mask and headlights. The red grille surround is legendary. That made the original GTI look wider than it actually was. But it shared this basic design concept with lower-powered Golf versions. Generation V of the GTI, on the other hand, intentionally set itself apart from its less powerful counterparts. That is why – over five years ago – the team led by Lichte chose a black, high-gloss grille in V form. Since that time, any child was able to recognize it as a GTI. The new one too. It now melds stylistic elements of both of these GTI icons. Details such as the typical honeycomb radiator screen, and the V-shaped engine hood extending over the headlights, were contributed by the GTI V. The clear horizontal alignment, meanwhile, definitely originates from the GTI I.

The entire bumper plus radiator grille and inner design of the headlights are a new creation. The outer grille painted in high-gloss black is a flat surface again; a red stripe frames it at the top and bottom. To the left of the VW logo there is a GTI signature (from the first through the third generation it was always on the right).

On the level beneath, a trim strip in car color extends crosswise. At the center of the bottom section there is another air inlet that is very large. Toward the sides of the car it transitions to three cross beams, left and right, that look like gills; they end in the visually dominant fog lights that are arranged upright, or on edge. The plastic surfaces around the gills are painted in anthracite-metallic color, so that their contours do not disappear into a black hole. The fog lights – located extremely far outboard – visually draw the lower section of the bumper further outward than ever before. This stylistic touch and the basically horizontal formal styling of the front end give the 4.21 meter long Golf GTI a visual appearance that is wider (1.78 meter), lower (1.47 meter) and more dynamic than any other car of this class. A genuine GTI that can be recognized as such from five kilometers away.

Stylish GTI side profile
The sides of the new GTI are dominated by a very prominent character line that is drawn from the headlights to the taillights. Supported on this line – that is modeled as a muscular shoulder in the rear – is the roof. These proportions give the Golf GTI a lot of visual energy.

In its side profile, it is the bumpers extending far outboard and the unique form of the door sills that distinguish this GTI. The Golf GTI V had black sills set above the actual longitudinal beams, which extended from one wheel well to the other. The sills of the GTI VI are also black – but that is where the commonalities end. The aerodynamically sensible sills on the new car do not extend the full length, and this gives them a considerably more refined appearance and make the car appear lighter. The standard 17-inch "Denver" type alloy wheels – and the highly polished 18-inch "Detroit" alloy wheels available as an option – make a powerful statement. Both are classics of GTI styling. While the five U-shaped openings on the 17-inch wheels are designed in silver, the 18-inch wheels have a black piano paint look.

Rear of a GTI
There is hardly a rear section that is so unmistakable as that of the new Golf GTI. Here too the wide bumper was completely redesigned. Under the bumper is a black diffuser that channels air from beneath the vehicle and generates added downforce at the rear axle. A pair of chrome tailpipes is integrated in the outer regions of the diffuser, right and left.

Also redesigned was the roof-edge spoiler. The new rear spoiler – working in tandem with the diffuser – perfects the car’s orientation to the road at very high speeds. Since the rear spoiler is larger than its counterpart used on the "normal" Golf, it extends further into the rear window and makes it visually flatter and wider; yet it does not impair the driver’s view.

The GTI Phenomenon

78 percent of all GTI drivers have always dreamed of this car;

For 30 percent of all GTI drivers, the GTI is their absolute dream car
When car drivers are asked why they purchased a GTI, they first mention the car’s exterior styling, followed by its overall performance, i.e. the combination of a sporty chassis and an agile engine. Precisely these two aspects – styling and performance – were rearranged by the Generation VI development team to bring the sports car’s character into even greater harmony with the original GTI concept. And that means: clear styling plus pure dynamics. No more, no less.

And because the Golf GTI is no ordinary car – it is also an automotive perspective on the world – it is worth taking a look at the facts behind the "GTI phenomenon": the Golf GTI is the global market leader in the high-performance section of its class. The same holds true in Europe and Germany. 84 percent of buyers are men, and six out of ten of them are married. 70 percent of all GTI drivers have more than one car, have no children and are under 50 years of age (average age is 39). Their three favorite colors are black, white and red. 78 percent of new customers always wanted to drive a GTI sometime. Volkswagen also asked the GTI drivers about their dream car. The key wording here: if money were no object. And the response was truly resounding: for nearly 30 percent the GTI would be their first choice, even if they had all of the money in the world. An extraordinary compliment. Incidentally, taking places 2 and 3 of this hit list were the Porsche 911 and the Audi R8, two super sports cars from the same Group.

History of the origins of the first Golf GTI
Vision of a world success originated in 1973
The Golf GTI is a phenomenon, a brand within the Volkswagen brand, an automobile world view and an unmistakable design statement that has now attained sales of 1.7 million units. It is an original among sporty compacts. Spectacular stories have always circulated about how the first GTI (Gran Turismo Injection) came into being. At the center of these stories there is always a "secret society" of people who pushed through the GTI right up to production stage against the clock and opposition from their superiors. Many of the tales about these developments that have been passed down are true, but just as many of them have become distorted over the decades and are often wrong. The fact is that the Golf GTI was the ingenious idea of a few men. This is their story and the story of the first GTI.

Everything began, as always, with the Beetle
Let us fade back to 1973 when Volkswagen launched a very sporty version of the Beetle. The "Yellow and Black Racer," as it was called, differed from the normal Beetle in that it had a black hood and engine cover, slightly wider tires (5.5 instead of 5 inches), sport seats with head restraints (!) and a proper leather steering wheel. Technically, it was still the same old Beetle with 1,600cc, 50 horsepower, no more. Despite its relatively modest output, this "aggressive model from Volkswagen" even caused a stir in the German parliament.

Yet, to the dismay of a few insider experts it was popular among the public. This fast looking Beetle model sold out in no time at all, and this paved the way for a two-year project in Wolfsburg that – even within the company – only a handful of people would know about.

The founders emerge
It is still 1973, March 18 to be precise. On this day, memorable from today’s perspective, test engineer Alfons Löwenberg wrote an internal memo to a few colleagues from the Research & Development department. He proposed that Volkswagen should consider putting together a proper sports model. After all, a new vehicle with the project code EA 337 (the internal code name for the future Golf) had reached the final stages of development – and a modern front-wheel car with high-performance would open up a completely new group of customers for Volkswagen.

Recipients of the memo were reluctant at first. Only chassis specialist Herbert Horntrich and development chief Hermann Hablitzel were at least somewhat receptive to Löwenberg’s idea. However, Löwenberg kept at it and found other like-minded colleagues such as marketing man Horst-Dieter Schwittlinsky and Anton Konrad, Volkswagen’s PR director at the time. Konrad – who had been manager of the Formula V association for many years and enjoyed race car driving as a hobby – was particularly taken with the idea. He was also aware, however, that the seedling called sportiness needed to be cultivated with extreme discretion within the company. The high development costs for the new model that would be launched as the Golf in 1974 had already put a strain on the company’s finances.

Secret meeting over beer and sandwiches
Konrad invited the secret developers of this "Sport Golf" work group to meet at his home. Over beer and sandwiches, Hablitzel, Horntrich, Konrad, Löwenberg and Schwittlinsky sorted through the possibilities like co-conspirators. Hablitzel was now definitely on board, and his tacit approval allowed Löwenberg and Horntrich to get down to work. Taking a Scirocco prototype with a rock-hard chassis, they lowered the suspension dramatically, souped up the basic 85 PS 1.5-liter Scirocco engine to about 100 horsepower with a two-stage carburetor and crowned it with an exhaust pipe that resembled a stove pipe and sounded like one too.

Prototype 1 is over the top
Today, Konrad remembers the car as "a roaring monster". The secret team soon agreed that this was not what they wanted. The Sport Golf should have a sporty image, but it should be civil. So, Löwenberg and Horntrich decided to build a more reasonable version. The result was not quite as ferocious, but it was still quite fast. The whole undercover group felt much better about this new model, and Hablitzel plucked up some courage. He informed development chief Professor Ernst Fiala about the sporty car and asked him what he thought. Fiala delivered a fatal blow: "It’s far too expensive, you’re all mad," he retorted briefly and succinctly.

However, Hablitzel and his men would not be deterred. The prototype based on the Scirocco was officially declared a chassis test platform, but its development continued unofficially. Löwenberg fine tuned the engine, while Horntrich configured the chassis for the proposed beefy tires. 205/60 HR 13 would be the tire size, which back then would have even put a Porsche 911 to shame – the quintessential Teutonic sports car still ran on 185/70 tires in 1974.

Management says it’s a "go" in Spring 1975
Not surprisingly, the "chassis test platform" caused a great stir when Hablitzel & Co. demonstrated their latest projects to Volkswagen management at the Ehra-Lessien test center in Spring 1975. Even Professor Fiala was now taken by the Sport Golf in a Scirocco outfit – and he gave his approval. At the end of May, an official vehicle proposal was sent to the development department: A sporty version of the Golf is needed.

The Golf becomes the GTI
At the same time, Sales sensed the good market opportunities for a sporty Golf, and Volkswagen still needed a crowd pleaser for the upcoming International Motor Show in Frankfurt. The project suddenly acquired momentum from all quarters. Six prototypes with different configurations were created, ranging from a speedster trimmed for maximum sports car performance to a modestly understated version. Chief designer Herbert Schäfer was responsible for all the fine details that would set the future GTI apart from its less powerful rivals. The red stripe on the radiator grille, for example, and the larger front spoiler, modest plastic wheel well extensions, matte black frame on the rear window, black roofliner, golf ball knob on the gearshift lever and checked pattern of the seat covers.

Technical fine tuning
Herbert Schuster, the new test manager, immediately declared chassis development a top priority. To cut costs, he reduced the width of the wheels from 6.0 to 5.5 inches and shrunk the tire size to 175/70 HR 13. He did, however, also add stabilizers for the front and rear axles and developed a spring/damper configuration that provided a perfect synthesis of comfort and sportiness. In collaboration with Audi, an ultra-modern 1.6-liter fuel-injected engine delivering 110 PS was produced.

World premiere in 1975 at the IAA in Frankfurt
The former undercover team finished its work right on schedule. When the 46th Frankfurt International Motor Show opened its gates to the public on September 11, 1975, a red wonder celebrated its debut at the Volkswagen booth: the Golf GTI concept car. "The fastest Volkswagen ever" boasted the advertisement – and that was no exaggeration. The GTI accelerated from a zero to 100 km/h in about nine seconds, leaving considerably larger and more expensive cars behind. The cautiously announced price of "under 13,000 German Marks" was still at least 5,000 German Marks less than its key German rival. As a result, car show visitors were so enthusiastic about the car that company management had no other choice than to build a special series of 5,000 cars.

GTI mania begins
The GTI ended up costing 13,850 German Marks when it was launched in mid-1976. Despite the higher price, dealers still managed to sell ten times the planned sales volume in its first year on the market. And that came as no surprise: "Climbing an Alpine pass in the GTI – this is one of the most exciting driving tasks that a car enthusiast can have" is how the German automotive magazine "auto motor und sport" extolled the GTI. That sums it up, even 33 years later.

1976 to 2009 – key events in the history of the GTI

1.7 million GTIs – the world’s most successful compact sports car

June 1976 marked the production launch of the first Golf GTI. The planned output of what was originally a limited edition: 5,000 GTIs. But it turned out entirely differently. The 81 kW / 110 PS strong and 182 km/h fast Golf GTI won over a new group of customers and founded the GTI class. Over five GTI generations, the original 5,000 units turned into more than 1.7 million. No other compact sports car in the world even comes close to being that successful. What follows is an overview of the key events in the history of the Golf GTI up to market launch of the sixth generation:

1976: Debut of first generation Golf GTI
(1.6 liter with 81 kW / 110 PS)

1979: Facelift

1982: Performance boost of the Golf GTI
(1.8 liter with 82 kW / 112 PS)

1983: Introduction of the "Pirelli GTI"
(officially "Special Model Golf GTI", features included special wheels)

1984: Debut of second generation Golf GTI
(1.8 liter with 82 kW / 112 PS)

1984: Introduction of catalytic converter
(79 kW / 107 PS instead of 82 kW / 112 PS)

1985: Facelift, dual headlights and dual tailpipes

1986: Introduction of the Golf GTI 16V
(1.8 liter with 102 kW / 139 PS and 95 kW / 129 PS with catalytic converter)

1990: Introduction of the Golf GTI G60
(1.8 liter with 118 kW / 160 PS)

1991: Debut of third generation Golf GTI
(2.0 liter with 85 kW / 115 PS)

1992: Introduction of the Golf GTI 16V
(2.0 liter with 110 kW / 150 PS)

1996: Presentation of anniversary model "20 years of GTI"
(2.0 liter with 85 kW / 115 PS and 110 kW / 150 PS
and for the first time 1.9 TDI with 81 kW / 110 PS)

1998: Debut of fourth generation Golf GTI
(1.8 T with 110 kW / 150 PS, 2.3 V5 with 110 / 150 PS
and 1.9 TDI with 81 kW / 90 PS);
later 2.3 V5 with 125 kW / 170 PS,
1.9 TDI with 85 kW / 115 PS and 96 kW / 130 PS)

2000: Introduction of the most powerful Golf GTI TDI to date
(1.9 TDI with 110 kW / 150 PS)

2001: Introduction of the Golf GTI "25 years of GTI"
(1.8 T with 132 kW / 180 PS)

2004: Debut of fifth generation Golf GTI
(2.0 TSI with 147 kW / 200 PS and optional 6-speed DSG)

2006: Presentation of anniversary model "Golf GTI Edition 30"
(2.0 TSI with 169 kW / 230 PS)

2007: Presentation of special edition "Golf Pirelli GTI"
(2.0 TSI with 169 kW / 230 PS)

2008: World premiere of sixth generation Golf GTI
in October as concept car at Paris Motor Show

2009: Debut of sixth generation Golf GTI
International press presentation in March / April in Southern France; start of market launch phase in Europe
(2.0 TSI with 155 kW / 210 PS and optional 6-speed DSG)

Source: Volkswagen

2009 Passat Lingyu - First Official Pictures

2009-03-21T09:45:00.004+10:30

Ahead of the 2009 Shanghai Auto Show, Shanghai Volkswagen have released first images of it updated Passat Lingyu before New Midsize Sedan arrives next year.

Going from google translations it has all the safety needs in a Midsize Sedan class eg ABS, EBD, ESP and Curtain Airbags etc; it will also have a DVD entertaiment system as well.

Stay Tuned for Official Press Release due in April at Shanghai of course !!!

Source Shanghai Volkswagen and Auto Sohu.com

Volkswagen to take on "Dakar" challenge again in 2010

2009-03-09T08:09:00.000+10:30

Volkswagen will again participate in the legendary Dakar Rally in 2010. After the one-two victory and the historic first "Dakar” triumph of a diesel-powered car this year, the automobile manufacturer from Wolfsburg will yet again take on one of the major challenges of international motorsport.

"No doubt, the 2009 Dakar Rally contributed to the fact that the Volkswagen brand is now shining even brighter around the world,” said Prof Dr Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of the Executive Board of the Volkswagen Group, on the occasion of the "Dakar” victory celebration at the Wolfsburg "Autostadt”. "Therefore, our participation in this event is a good investment in the future of our company and that’s why we decided to again compete in the Dakar Rally in 2010.”

In the Race Touareg powered by a 280-hp TDI diesel engine Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz had won the "Dakar” that was staged for the first time in South America; as the runners-up, Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford gave Volkswagen a one-two victory. In 2010, the Dakar Rally will be held in Argentina and Chile again, from 02 to 17 January.”

"Besides our joy about this sporting exploit, the positive response by media around the world convinced us,” said Dr Ulrich Hackenberg, Member of the Executive Board of the Volkswagen Brand with responsibility for Technical Development including the manufacturer’s motorsport commitment. "Our ‘Dakar’ win stands for enormous reliability and innovative technology – and these are values which substantially stand for all Volkswagen vehicles. Particularly in TDI technology, the development activities for motorsport result in valuable synergies benefiting our production vehicles as well,” commented Dr Ulrich Hackenberg.

Preparations for the two-week cross-country rally covering 9,500 kilometres across the desert and the pampas have already started. "We’ve got quick drivers, a reliable car and an experienced team – in other words, everything we need to again contest the ‘Dakar’ and to fight for victory,” said Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen. That is why in 2010 the victorious Race Touareg 2 will compete in the event yet again.

Volkswagen Motorsport

Geneva 2009: Golf BlueMotion

2009-03-05T12:40:00.004+10:30

Record: New Golf BlueMotion consumes just 3.8 liters per 100 km

99 g/km CO2 sets new best value in the Golf class
Golf BlueMotion launches in June with automatic start-stop and regenerative braking

Wolfsburg / Geneva, 03 March 2009
Volkswagen is presenting the production version of the world’s most fuel-efficient automobile in its class – the new Golf BlueMotion. Average fuel consumption: 3.8 liters per 100 kilometers! Also low are its 99 g/km CO2 emissions – both values are best-in-class. At the same time, the "BlueMotion" label demonstrates that economy does not have to come at the expense of driving pleasure. This is especially true of the uncompromising and high-end design of the Golf BlueMotion.

This concept car is powered by a new quiet and high-torque common rail turbo-diesel with 77 kW / 105 kW. The innovative configuration of this 1,598 cm3 four-cylinder engine is now also the technical basis for breaking the magic 4.0 liter fuel consumption barrier in the Golf class. Furthermore, technologies like automatic start-stop and regenerative braking (energy is recovered when braking and decelerating) contribute significantly to the Golf BlueMotion’s increased efficiency. Volkswagen will introduce the new model in Europe starting in June.

The overriding goal in the development of the new BlueMotion engine was to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions – which has now been achieved par excellence on the Golf – while improving performance and maximizing comfort. Anyone driving the new Golf with this engine will quickly come to understand just how successfully these goals were attained.

The excellent power response of the new 1.6 TDI is due to the fact that it already develops its maximum torque of 250 Newton-meters at a low 1,500 rpm. Fuel delivery to the engine is handled by common rail injection. Piezo actuators enable especially precise multiple injections with very high precision of fuel quantity and timing. The system operates at an injection pressure of 1,600 bar and is characterized by an optimal balance of power, refinement, acoustics and emissions.

One technical focus in the car’s development was to reduce friction power losses. Crankshaft, valve and oil pump drives were optimized. A square stroke/bore ratio minimizes friction losses at the cylinder liners. Furthermore, losses were reduced in the flow of oil and coolant, and frictional losses were reduced in air induction and charge air flows. Of course, an optimized engine cooling system also makes a positive contribution to engine efficiency.

An interesting benefit of all these efficiency improvements is that the new TDI engine is not lacking in performance by any means. It accelerates the Golf BlueMotion to 100 km/h in just 11.3 seconds and delivers a top speed of 190 km/h. Of course, this Volkswagen is also equipped with a diesel particulate filter. Like all sixth generation Golfs, the BlueMotion model also meets the limits of the new Euro-5 emissions standard.

BlueMotion – clever mix of technologies
The astonishing fuel economy of the latest Golf version is achieved with further modifications that are in addition to those already mentioned concerning the engine. As with other BlueMotion models, these include rpm-reducing gear ratios (a five-speed transmission is employed here), very low rolling resistance tires and special aerodynamic refinements. For the first time, these improvements are being supplemented by a start-stop system and regenerative braking.

Start-stop system in detail
Especially worthwhile is a look at the fully intuitive operation of the start-stop system. The driver approaches a red light in the Golf BlueMotion, brakes the Volkswagen to a stop, shifts to neutral (ideally this is done on a conventional car too) and takes his or her foot from the clutch. This shuts off the engine momentarily. A "Start Stop" message now appears in the multifunctional display. As soon as the traffic light turns green again, the driver fully depresses the clutch, the engine starts, the "Start Stop" message disappears, the driver puts the car back in gear and resumes driving. Essentially, the driver does not need to perform any additional steps compared to a conventional car, yet the start-stop system saves up to 0.2 liter of fuel per 100 kilometers on average in city driving.

Regenerative braking in detail
Regenerative braking helps to utilize energy that would otherwise be lost in driving as beneficially as possible. During deceleration and braking phases of the Golf BlueMotion – i.e. whenever the driver simply releases the gas pedal or intentionally brakes – the alternator’s voltage is boosted, and this is utilized for bulk recharging of the vehicle battery.

Thanks to alternator control – which regulates the alternator as a function of engine efficiency for optimal battery charging – it is possible to reduce the alternator voltage, e.g. when accelerating or driving at a constant speed. It is even possible to switch off the alternator entirely. This reduces engine load and improves fuel economy. Special software for energy management and modified engine control software are needed to utilize regeneration.

Geneva 2009: Touran TSI Ecofuel

2009-03-05T12:37:00.002+10:30

New Touran TSI EcoFuel: Drive 100 kilometers for 4.60 Euros

Natural gas van with 150 PS delivers top performance with cleanest emissions
Touran TSI EcoFuel is powered by dual-charged Twincharger

Wolfsburg / Geneva, 03 March 2009
The multi-purpose Touran EcoFuel is one of the most successful natural gas cars in Europe. Now Volkswagen is presenting an entirely new natural gas version of this van as a world premiere: the Touran TSI EcoFuel. Its key technical feature is dual charging via turbocharger and supercharger ("Twincharger"). This combination generates more dynamic performance than in the case of any other natural gas production vehicle before it. Excellent performance combines with high fuel efficiency: the new Touran TSI EcoFuel is so economical that 100 kilometers in this van delivering 110 kW / 150 PS of power only costs about 4.60 Euros (based on average price of natural gas in Germany, February 2009).

The Touran Ecofuel closely follows the introduction of the Passat TSI EcoFuel which is now being sold in initial markets and features the same innovative, fuel-efficient drivetrain. Although the Touran TSI EcoFuel goes to work with a passion thanks to its "Twincharger", when fitted with a standard 6-speed transmission the van consumes just 4.8 kilograms of natural gas per 100 kilometers, and that corresponds to CO2 emissions of just 129 g/km.

When the Touran TSI EcoFuel is equipped with the optional DSG 7-speed dual clutch transmission – as in the version being shown at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show – fuel consumption and CO2 emissions drop to 4.7 kilograms and 126 g/km, respectively. In this case, fuel costs per 100 kilometers are reduced to 4.50 Euros.

Maximum power, maximum economy
The TSI EcoFuel engine of the Touran is designed for mono-fuel operation; it has four natural gas tanks and an auxiliary gasoline tank. However, there are no plans for manual switching from natural gas to gasoline operation. Primarily, the Touran TSI EcoFuel is powered by natural gas. It does not automatically switch to gasoline mode until the natural gas tanks are empty. At a low 1,500 rpm the engine already develops 220 Newton-meters of torque and maintains this value up to 4,500 rpm. Its driving characteristics are just as sporty. The Touran accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 10.1 seconds. Its top speed is 205 km/h. Naturally, the Touran TSI EcoFuel fulfills limits of the Euro-5 emissions standard.

The natural gas tanks of the Touran are housed in the underfloor of the multi-purpose van for safe and space-saving storage. They hold a total of 18 kilograms natural gas. With its natural gas supply, plus 11 liters of gasoline (as a reserve fuel supply), the Touran TSI EcoFuel can be driven more than 520 kilometers. The natural gas supply alone can provide a range of around 370 kilometers.

Geneva 2009: Passat CC BlueTDI

2009-03-04T06:19:00.004+10:30

Passat CC BlueTDI launches in June with world’s cleanest diesel

Extremely fuel efficient Passat CC BlueTDI with SCR catalytic converter attains Euro-6 limits
Exclusive touring sedan is based on the new Passat CC Individual

Wolfsburg / Geneva, 03 March 2009

The Passat CC is one of the most attention provoking new vehicles of the past year. No wonder: The four-door coupé from Volkswagen brings extraordinary design, impressive drive systems and technology plus highlights from the luxury class into a vehicle that has so far been unique in the Passat’s car segment. Now the Passat CC arrives as a BlueTDI with a new diesel, pointing the way to an environmentally friendly future. The Blue TDI combines the economy of the BlueMotion concept with clean emissions that match those of a high-tech gasoline engine. Technical background: The common rail TDI engine of the new Passat CC BlueTDI will be combined with a SCR catalytic converter that reduces nitrogen oxide emissions to below 80 mg/km as standard equipment. The "CC" therefore already conforms to the limits of the Euro-6 emissions standard scheduled to take effect in the year 2014. The BlueTDI version of the touring sedan being shown in Geneva is based on the brand new Passat CC Individual. Identifying feature: the finest of materials and most exclusive equipment. This Volkswagen is ideal as an alternative for all those car drivers who want to drive a high performance touring sedan while simultaneously making a statement about sustainability. Because the Passat CC BlueTDI Individual unites both of these: high exclusivity and extremely low emissions.

The BlueTDI of the 214 km/h four door car has its technical origins in the latest configuration of the 103 kW / 140 PS 2.0 liter common rail engine. Yet, the BlueTDI develops even more power at 105 kW / 143 PS. Despite the power gain, the Passat CC BlueTDI consumes 0.4 liters less than the 140 PS TDI. In the Passat CC BlueTDI with 6-speed stick-shift transmission, fuel consumption is 5.2 liters (139 g/km CO2). This average fuel consumption underscores the Passat CC’s positioning as an exemplary touring sedan. The average distance between fueling stops is a considerable 1,346 kilometers.

The BlueTDI version of the Passat CC goes into production at the beginning of June. In keeping with its exclusive positioning, it will also be available with a DSG 6-speed dual clutch transmission (consumption: 5.8 l/100 km; 153 g/km CO2).

SCR catalytic converter and AdBlue are keys to lowest NOx emissions
Ensuring the extremely low nitrogen oxide values in the generally very clean exhaust gases of the Passat CC BlueTDI is the highly sophisticated SCR catalytic converter used in tandem with the additive AdBlue. The acronym SCR stands for the internationally recognized term "Selective Catalytic Reduction". "Selective" refers to the fact that this catalytic converter performs a very special task. Its job is to selectively convert nitrogen oxide (NOx) components of the exhaust gas into nitrogen and water. The SCR catalytic converter was developed precisely for this highly specialized task. In addition, however, an oxidation catalytic converter and a diesel particulate filter are on board to reduce the entire range of emissions.

Exclusive Individual features
The Individual version of the Passat CC BlueTDI leaves the factory with standard newly designed 18-inch "Chicago black" type alloy wheels. Optional 19-inch "Lugano" alloy wheels will be available early this summer.

Inside, all new Passat CC Individual cars offer standard two-tone leather seat covers on their 6-way power comfort seats (with memory function). The seat surfaces are treated in the high-end soft leather known as "cool leather" ("Nougat" color) with airflow perforations; this material reflects sunlight especially well, keeping it pleasantly cool. In the outer areas of the seats, a color coordinated, black nappa leather is used that is stitched with nougat-colored seams. The front armrest and the main surfaces of the door inserts are treated in the "Nougat" leather look too. These colors are also reflected in the leather steering wheel and gearshift lever: here the black leather elements are joined by nougat-colored seams. Black fabric floor mats are also upgraded by nougat-colored piping. Accents on the CC instrument panels and doors are in high-gloss black piano paint.

In addition, the Passat CC Individual will offer ambiance lighting in the doors and footwell areas as well as an extended chrome package as standard equipment. This includes special chrome rings on the interior door handles, chrome caps on the window lift and central locking switches and chrome around the mirror adjustment controls. Door tread plates in the front also come with an elegant white-illuminated "Volkswagen Individual" signature; the front signatures are elegantly illuminated in white light. By the way, the new Passat CC Individual with its familiar TDI and TSI engines will launch immediately.

Text Volkswagen
Images United Pictures

Geneva 2009: Golf Plus BlueMotion

2009-03-04T06:17:00.002+10:30

Golf Plus BlueMotion consumes 0.5 liter less than the prior model

Most fuel efficient Golf Plus will already launch on the market in September
Range of well over 1,100 kilometers on just one tank of fuel
Wolfsburg / Geneva, 03 March 2009

Volkswagen will be bringing the new generation of the Golf Plus BlueMotion to European markets in September. Compared to its already extremely fuel efficient and low-emissions predecessor (4.8 liters per 100 km and 127 g/km CO2), the new model successfully improves fuel economy and emissions even more. And indeed to 4.3 liters diesel and 114 g/km CO2 – the new benchmark in the segment of high-roofed compacts. This progress was made possible by the second generation of a completely new engine that also appears in the Golf BlueMotion making a parallel debut in Geneva: the 1.6 TDI with common rail injection.

Especially in city traffic, an automatic start-stop system ensures that fuel consumption is kept in check. Also new aboard the new Golf Plus BlueMotion is regenerative braking – where energy is recovered during braking and deceleration. This reduces engine load during acceleration, since less power is required by the alternator – which can even be turned off completely – thereby saving fuel.

Not only is the new Golf Plus BlueMotion economical; it is fun too. A key performance parameter here is the excellent torque curve. The new 1.6 TDI develops a maximum torque of 250 Newton-meter at a low 1,500 rpm. Fuel delivery is handled by common rail injection. Four injectors spray the fuel directly into the combustion chambers at a maximum pressure of 1,600 bar. A very precise multi-injection system has a noticeably beneficial effect on emissions and combustion noise.

Other details of the 186 km/h Golf Plus BlueMotion include rpm-reducing gear ratios in its 5-speed transmission. Like the other BlueMotion versions in the Golf range, the primary visual features on the exterior of this latest and most economical Golf Plus are the new logos at the front and rear and a lowering of the ride height by 15 millimeters. Other modifications, such as a partially closed-off radiator grille and a special aerodynamic airflow panel at the rear axle remain hidden from view. Nonetheless, their aerodynamic effects make themselves felt: the drag coefficient of this model, optimized for fuel consumption, has been reduced to cW = 0.298, a top value in this vehicle class. The BlueMotion package for the Golf Plus is completed by tires with low rolling resistance.

The new Golf Plus embodies visual references to the classic design style of the sixth Golf generation. This is especially apparent at the front end. The rear bumper and roof rails were also redesigned. New steel and alloy wheels of various sizes complete the package of exterior visual modifications. Inside, details like new upholstery fabrics and other features introduced on the new Golf Plus also distinguish the new Golf Plus BlueMotion. These include its instruments, steering wheel and controls for the automatic climate control system (Climatronic).

Text Volkswagen
Images United Pictures

Geneva 2009: Polo BlueMotion Concept Car

2009-03-03T19:29:00.008+10:30

Polo BlueMotion Concept Car – Key Aspects

World Premiere at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show

3.3 liter fuel consumption makes this Polo one of the most economical cars in the world

New 1.2 liter TDI engine reduces Polo’s CO2 emissions to just 87 g/km

Market launch of the most fuel efficient Polo of all times expected in 2010

Wolfsburg / Geneva, 03 March 2009 - It is still a concept – the most fuel efficient five-seater in the world. Its name: Polo BlueMotion. Fuel consumption: 3.3 liters CO2 emissions: just 87 g/km! Likelihood of going into production: extremely high! However, before a potential production launch, development must be completed on the brand new 1.2 liter TDI with common rail injection. And that is precisely what the team led by Development Chief Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg is working on with great emphasis. “I anticipate,” says Dr. Hackenberg, “that we will be able to go into production in February 2010. Meeting this schedule will be extremely demanding. Yet the engine and other systems of the Polo BlueMotion are already operating with such promising performance that we are on course to meet our goal.”

The "other systems" to which he refers include an automatic start-stop system and regenerative braking. These two technologies alone reduce fuel consumption of the 55 kW / 75 PS three-cylinder direct-injection diesel by up to 0.2 liters per 100 kilometers.

But that is not all that is being done. On the Polo BlueMotion concept car, which weighs in at just 1,080 kilograms, Volkswagen is calling upon an entire array of efficiency measures, including an aerodynamic package for the body that is lowered by 10 millimeters (including modified front end), an aerodynamically optimized underbody and low rolling resistance tires on 15-inch alloy wheels. Altogether, these modifications yield fuel savings totaling 0.8 liters. This has lowered CO2 emissions by about 20 percent.

Other features being presented on the Polo BlueMotion concept car at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show include a custom interior with "Power On" trim, and a display for indicating upshifting and tire pressure. The design study is painted in the new exterior color "Emotion blue".

Start-stop system in detail
Especially worthwhile is a look at the fully intuitive operation of the start-stop system. As the driver approaches a red stop light in the Polo BlueMotion concept car, he or she applies the brakes to bring the vehicle to a stop, shifts into neutral (which should be standard practice with a conventional car) and takes his or her foot off the clutch. This shuts off the engine momentarily. A "Start Stop" message now appears in the multifunctional display. As soon as the traffic light turns green again, the driver fully depresses the clutch, the engine starts, the "Start Stop" message disappears, and the driver puts the car back in gear and resumes driving.

Regenerative braking in detail
Regenerative braking helps to recover energy that would otherwise be lost in driving in as efficient a way as possible. During deceleration and braking phases of the Polo BlueMotion concept car – i.e. whenever the driver simply releases the accelerator pedal or intentionally brakes – the alternator’s charging voltage is elevated, which converts the car’s kinetic energy into electrical energy to charge the battery.

Thanks to alternator control – which regulates the alternator as a function of engine efficiency for optimal battery charging – it is possible to lower alternator voltage at other times, e.g. during acceleration or driving at a constant speed. It is even possible to switch off the alternator entirely. This reduces engine load and improves fuel economy. Special software for energy management and modified engine controller software are needed to utilize regeneration.

The new umbrella brand BlueMotionTechnologies
Volkswagen is presenting the Polo concept car in Geneva under the new umbrella brand "BlueMotionTechnologies". This label covers all production-mature or near-production technologies and products that significantly reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. These are developments such as the new start-stop system and regenerative braking implemented on the Polo BlueMotion concept, as well as the highly innovative SCR catalytic converter on the Passat CC BlueTDI that is also appearing for the first time in Geneva. However, they also include the NOx storage catalytic converter that has already been successfully introduced in the USA, electric and hybrid drive systems, and innovative engine systems like those in the Touran TSI EcoFuel which are debuting at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show. A launching point for these extremely fuel efficient and low-emission products was the Polo BlueMotion, which in 2006 was the first five-seater to bring fuel consumption down to 3.8 liters per 100 kilometers. The Polo BlueMotion concept car now surpasses this record value by 0.5 liters.

The range of BlueMotion models already available today includes the Golf series, Jetta, Caddy, Touran, Sharan, and the Passat and Passat Wagon. A recent survey by the organization "Deutsche Automobil Treuhand DAT", the renowned and world’s oldest institution for automotive market research, demonstrates just how successful the BlueMotion label has become today. In a representative survey, the highly regarded DAT found that 85 percent of German car drivers are familiar with the BlueMotion label. The next best competitor only attained a recognition level of 36 percent. This makes BlueMotion the number 1 among automotive environmental labels.

The New Polo – World Premiere at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show

2009-03-03T06:10:00.007+10:30

Key Aspects: The New Polo – World Premiere at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show

Fifth generation Polo brings new dimension of quality to the supermini class

Five new engines; TSI and Common Rail TDI in the Polo for the first time

3.8 liter fuel consumption and 96 g/km CO2 set new benchmark for five-seaters

ESP is standard equipment; significantly improved crash properties

Wolfsburg / Geneva, 25 February 2009 - World premiere in Switzerland: Volkswagen is introducing the fifth generation of the Polo at the Geneva International Motor Show (March 5 to 15) – the new edition of one of the most influential German cars of our times. Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of the Board of Management, Volkswagen Group: “Through the combination of the car’s design and technology, aligned with forthcoming market requirements, we have repeated our achievements in the recently launched new Golf in the class below. This takes us to an entirely new level of high customer value and efficiency among small cars and indeed at prices that are still affordable.”

The new Polo - Design and quality philosophy

1:1 transfer of Volkswagen “Design DNA” to the fifth generation Polo;
compact Volkswagen was designed under the leadership of Walter de Silva

Visually speaking, the 2009 Polo was developed 1:1 from the principles of the new Volkswagen "Design DNA". The Scirocco, the first model with this pedigree, was sent to the races in 2008 to take pole position among the world’s best cars. Today, this coupé retains its value more consistently than any other car in Germany. The second wave of the new DNA also debuted in 2008 in the new Golf and its high-roofed counterpart, the Golf Plus. These models have since regained number 1 rankings in the eyes of buyers, a fact born out in car registration statistics. And now comes the third model based on the new Volkswagen Design DNA – the Polo.

Close network of designers, development engineers and production experts

A precondition for implementing this design philosophy which is characterized by the greatest precision and clarity, are progressive and highly innovative development and production methods. Designers, development engineers and production experts at Volkswagen work together in a more closely connected way than is otherwise usual. Their goal was to produce a level of quality, both technical and visual, which is generally only found in cars several classes above. This alliance has been implemented with great success over the past two years by a new leadership team under the direction of Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn. Here, experts such as Prof. Dr. Jochem Heizmann (Member of the Board of Management, Volkswagen Group; Production), Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg (Member of the Board of Management, Volkswagen Brand; Development) and Walter de Silva (Head of Group Design) combine their creative energies to design and produce cars like the new Polo.

Sharp, precise lines

Thanks to the new design DNA defined by Walter de Silva, the impression that this Polo makes – in contrast to many other cars in the so-called A0 or supermini class – is not contrived or ‘cute’; instead it is mature but contemporary. The Polo, with its distinctive new Volkswagen family face, is instead a purposeful and impressive car, which – measuring just 3,952 millimeters in length (+36 millimeters compared to previous model) and 1,682 millimeters wide (+32 millimeters) – offers space for up to five people and luggage (280 to 952 liters). The car’s generous gain in width combined with a reduction in height (-13 to 1,454 millimeters) lends the Polo a more dynamic stance and purposeful appearance. The design itself is defined by sharp, precise lines without stylistic gimmicks that quickly fade in popularity; because in the long run, less is more – and the consistently high resale values of Volkswagens are longstanding proof of this claim.

Walter de Silva’s creative touch in a style of "Semplicità"

This explains why Walter de Silva intentionally declared "La Semplicità" – "the simplicity" – as his credo here. "La Semplicità" in no way means a diminishment of features. The opposite is the case. Walter de Silva: "Elegance and emotionality, sportiness and dynamics, continue to guide design and styling. But styles have changed. In pursuit of simplicity and clarity, one must carefully consider how to express the intentions of designers while speaking to those of the observer."

The starting point for all of these deliberations is the car’s reflection on the Volkswagen brand, its history and its values. "Certain distinctive design elements", says de Silva, "have evolved as typical of the brand. Mastery of the architecture and balance of proportions form the foundation, the emphasis on horizontal lines has evolved into a unifying characteristic across models, and a literal love for details has become an essential means of expression." Above all, there is a very high level of quality that can be clearly seen in the unmistakable precision of the car’s lines and in the treatment of its surfaces. The new Polo reflects these design principles par excellence.

The new Polo - Exterior

Impressive design with clear, dynamic forms;
fifth generation Polo shows its new Volkswagen family face

As soon as you see the Polo, you are struck by its self-assured proportions. The car’s basic layout looks dynamic, while the design is clean and the overall appearance very purposeful. Better resolved surfaces, tight seams and extremely sharp panel edges in its side profile, engine hood and tailgate underscore the car’s logical design concept. Above all, the gain in width leads to a very full, powerful image from every perspective.

Front end

The Volkswagen family face that has been specially adapted to the Polo – with its flat grille and band of headlights that has typified the brand ever since the Scirocco – emphasizes the new car’s additional width. Moreover, it conveys an image of the car’s very low center of gravity. Harmoniously integrated in this face are the Polo’s body-colored bumpers beneath the black grille.

In a third horizontal line below this, there is another large air inlet that supplies the engine and brakes with ample air. At its sides, this black band incorporates the daytime running lights and fog lights with integrated turn indicators. The daytime running lights save up to 0.15 liter of fuel per 100 kilometers compared to conventional continuous running lights. Just a few centimeters above the road, the narrow body-colored front spoiler catches the eye. This spoiler has been moved forwards, and makes a decisive contribution towards the car’s exemplary pedestrian protection credentials.

Volkswagen offers the Polo with two or three different headlights, depending on selected options: the "Trendline" base version is fitted with H4 headlights. H7 dual headlights are installed starting with the "Comfortline". The H7 headlights offer ten percent greater lighting power compared to headlights on the previous model. Also integrated in the headlights are the turn signal lights. Stylistically, outer and inner design features of the headlights with their different lighting elements join together with the lines of the radiator grille to form one unit.

Rear end

The rear of the car is characterized by geometric order and sportiness. The design cue from the headlights, with their line breaking off with an upward turn, is taken up again in the taillights. These also display a very distinctive night image and extend into the Polo’s broad shoulder. Supported on these shoulders – in the area of the lateral "character line" that can be seen from every perspective – is the roof section. Meanwhile, the tailgate extends right down to the bumper. Just as on the Golf, the Polo’s tailgate is opened with the VW logo, which swivels up and acts as a handle. Standard equipment: a roof edge spoiler integrated in the tailgate.

The car’s image is also exceptionally powerful from the rear. From this angle it becomes clear how the designers exploited the increased track width (+30 millimeters both front and rear) and stretched the outer wheels along a vertical plane right up to the wheel wells as though carved out with a knife. That is also why the Polo can easily accommodate very large wheel-tire combinations. The range of optional tire dimensions extends all the way to 215/40 R17.

Side profile

The lateral profile line is, among other things, dominated by the distinctively sporty front overhang and extremely short rear overhang, the clearly modeled "character line" and low roof that slopes towards the rear. The prominent shoulder line also gives the vehicle a new lateral structure and underscores the generally more masculine appearance. Since the fourth generation, the five-door Polo has also sported what is known as a "three window look". This refers to the third side window integrated in the C pillar. This design characteristic is especially prominent on the new Polo. In the area of the A and C pillars, the lower window line also takes an upward sweep, a reference to the styling of the headlights and taillights. Also striking are the pronounced side skirts, whose shape offers aerodynamic benefits. The Polo’s underbody is also optimized for optimal airflow. Also enhancing aerodynamic performance are the newly developed outside mirror housings, whose air resistance has been reduced by 20 percent compared to the previous model.

The new Polo - Interior

Interior brings new level of quality to the class to the small car class; new cockpit in the five-seater has decidedly driver-oriented ergonomics

All Volkswagens are recognized for having intuitive user controls and excellent ergonomic properties – regardless of the proportions of their driver and passengers. These are clearly properties of the new Polo too. The entire interior was redesigned. Starting with the "Comfortline", the surface of the instrument panel is upgraded by so-called slush technology (a high-end surface structure that is soft to the touch). The lower area of the cabin as well as the door inserts and interior trim panels may be ordered in either "Anthracite" or "Seashell".

Driver-oriented ergonomics

Noteworthy here is the center console that is now turned more toward the driver for convenience. The controls on this console are organized as on the previous model, but have been completely redesigned. At the very top there are two central air vents, which have high-end bezels in aluminum look from the "Comfortline" up ("Trendline": high-gloss black). On the level below, Polo drivers will find a familiar row of switches with details like the hazard lights switch, which is readily accessible and visible, and push buttons for the heated rear window and optional heated seats. The next level down contains controls for the new radio and radio-navigation systems that are all being introduced on the Polo for the first time. Top of the line equipment here is the RNS 310 – a radio-navigation system with touchscreen, multimedia interface (MEDIA-IN), MP3 functionality (via CD, DVD or SD card) and AUX-IN socket on its front panel. The RNS 310 may also be upgraded to include a hands-free telephone unit.

Finally, the lowermost console level is home to the completely redesigned user controls for the ventilation or climate control system ("Climatic" is standard equipment starting on the Comfortline). Practical: The glove box can also be cooled in this case. Also integrated here are a sunglasses compartment, the deactivation switch for the front passenger’s airbag and – if included as options – the switches for the tire monitoring indicator (air pressure monitoring) and an MP3 port. The vehicle service book is stored in a space-saving storage slot at the base of the glove box. Directly in front of the gearshift lever are a 12V outlet and an AUX-IN socket for integrating another player.

White instrument backlighting

The instruments of the Polo were also redesigned; they now have white backlighting and are styled like those on the Golf. The fuel gauge is digital in the new generation Polo. Like the bezels for the air vents, the rotary light switch – still located on the left – gets a high-end metallic look from "Comfortline" up.

Similar to other new models of the Volkswagen brand, new three-spoke steering wheels were also developed for the Polo. The top version sports a leather steering wheel that is somewhat more compact than on the Golf. An optional multifunctional steering wheel (with user controls in the left spoke) will be offered too. Making a decidedly ergonomic impression are the armrests in the door trim panels (with storage bin for a 1.5 liter bottle) and a front center armrest (folding with storage compartment) that can now be ordered on the Polo for the first time.

More space at all seating positions

The driver’s seat, front passenger’s seat and rear bench seat were all redesigned. More space is now offered at all five seating locations in the Polo. In particular, knee room in the rear is greater due to the growth of the interior length to 1,674 millimeters (+8 millimeters). Shoulder room in front (1,372 millimeters) is also increased by 22 millimeters. Thanks to these new dimensions, the new Polo offers an interior ambiance that is considerably more spacious. The Polo also proves to be very versatile: Folding the rear bench seat (with standard 60:40 split starting on the "Comfortline") is very simple; the car then offers a level cargo surface due to the dual cargo floor that is standard equipment from the "Comfortline" up. The dual cargo floor can be mounted at two different heights.

The new Polo - Engines

Seven engines will be offered on the new Polo in 2009;
new TSI with 5.5 liters fuel consumption or the new BlueMotion TDI with 3.8 liters
Seven engines will be offered on the new Polo during its first year of production – four gasoline and three diesels. Five of these engines are brand new or are being used for the first time in the Polo; three of them can be paired with the innovative 7-speed dual clutch transmission (DSG) as an option instead of the manual 5-speed or 6-speed transmission. The gasoline engines, two three-cylinder and two four-cylinder engines, sport a power range extending from 44 kW / 60 PS to 77 kW / 105 PS. New to the lineup are the two strongest gasoline engines, the 1.4 liter with 63 kW / 85 PS and the 1.2 TSI with the noted 105 PS that is shifted by a standard 6-speed transmission.

Also new to the Polo are all three common rail turbo-diesels. These high-torque four-cylinder engines produce between 55 kW / 75 PS and 77 kW / 105 PS. A BlueMotion version based on the mid-range power level of 66 kW / 90 PS will also debut in 2009; this Polo BlueMotion will consume just 3.8 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers and emit only 96 g/km CO2. A summary of all engines being offered on the Polo in 2009.

The new Polo - Chassis

McPherson strut type suspension in front and semi-independent suspension in the rear; standard ESP and larger brake booster

Volkswagen has completely redesigned the Polo chassis with its McPherson strut type suspension in front and semi-independent suspension in the rear. Its track width was increased by 30 millimeters front and rear (giving new dimensions of 1,464 mm front, 1,456 mm rear). The result: enhanced vehicle dynamics.

Improved directional stability

In front, Volkswagen has integrated a completely redesigned McPherson strut type suspension with a thirty millimeter wider track width. The front wheels were moved five millimeters forward to achieve a greater caster angle, and this offers greater directional stability. Furthermore, new strut bushes are used on the Polo; on the one hand they are lighter, and they also improve ride comfort. Larger wheels can now be used as well, and this further improves comfort. At the same time, these wheels have a positive effect on driving performance. The Polo is being sold in Germany and in other markets with electronic stabilization program (ESP), including Hill Hold Control, as standard equipment. Overall braking system performance was adapted to the new generation Polo; among other elements, the 8.5 inch brake booster is being replaced by a higher performance 10 inch system.

To attain its five star rating in the EuroNCAP crash test, the steering column – with its continuously variable height and reach adjustment – was completely redeveloped. This redesign resulted in reduced weight. The standard electro-hydraulic power steering was taken from the previous model and adapted to the new front suspension kinematics. Engineers came up with entirely new tuning of the steering system. Steering feel and responsiveness as well as the center point – which defines steering feel in the straight-line tracking position – now set new standards.

The new Polo - Features

“Trendline”, “Comfortline” and “Highline” offered at market launch;
standard semi-automatic climate control system starting on the “Comfortline”

Compared to the previous model, Volkswagen has realigned the hierarchical structure of its equipment lines with their progressively added features: "Trendline" continues to represent the entry-level variant, and "Comfortline" still refers to the mid equipment level. New to the lineup – and bringing the Polo in line with the Golf here – is the top version called "Highline".

"Trendline"

The Polo Trendline already sports an interior with features that include a number of accents in an elegant high-gloss black. In addition, the Polo Trendline offers extensive safety and convenience features. Take active safety, for example: Standard on-board features include the electronic stabilization program (ESP), antilock braking system (ABS) and Hill Hold Control.

And passive safety: As well as front airbags and combined head/thorax airbags (front passenger airbag can be deactivated), the Polo also offers five head restraints, five three-point harnesses (height-adjustable in front), belt tensioners and belt force limiters in front, and Isofix-compatible child seat preparation (at the outer seating positions on the rear bench seat). The front heat restraints were also designed so that they counteract the risk of whiplash injury.

Consider these convenience features: Standard equipment includes electro-hydraulic power steering, power windows in front, central locking, cargo area lighting and load-lashing points, warning buzzer if lights are left on, height adjustment for driver’s seat, illuminated make-up mirrors in the sun visors and green tinted windows. The interior offers a perceptibly high level of elegance with "Titanium black" trim and "Metric" fabric.

"Comfortline"

Outward identifying characteristics of the Polo Comfortline include body-colored outside mirror housings and door handles, H7 dual headlights, daytime running lights and 15-inch wheels with special full wheel covers. On the convenience side, the range of standard equipment is complemented by such features as semi-automatic climate control (Climatic), electrically-adjustable and heated exterior mirrors, additional height adjustment on front passenger’s seat, storage drawers under the front seats, various accents in aluminum look (instruments, air vents, rotary light switch, radio and climate system controls), asymmetrically split and folding rear bench seat and seatbacks, dual cargo floor, storage pockets on front seatbacks and remote control central locking.

Inside, the Polo Comfortline features center seat panels in embossed "Fonzie" fabric. At this equipment level, besides "Anthracite", "Seashell" is also offered as a trim color. If the car buyer chooses "Seashell", the lower instrument panel area has a two-tone color treatment.

"Highline"

The top model of the new generation Polo is called "Highline" – a classic Volkswagen equipment line designation. From the outside, this most luxurious of all Polos is distinguished by chrome trim on the radiator grille, 15-inch alloy wheels and standard front fog lights starting at the "Comfortline" equipment version. Inside, details like a three-spoke leather steering wheel (lower middle spoke in chrome), front center armrest, multifunctional display and tire monitoring indicator, height-adjustable front sport seats, leather trimmed parking brake lever and gearshift knob, and an elegant striped pattern on the seats ("Livon" design), which lend the "Highline" model a special, elegant flair. All three equipment versions will be offered at market launch.

Volkswagen builds its First pre-production Robust Pick Up

2009-02-19T16:27:00.006+10:30

Volkswagen showed key Argentine Politicians and respected Journalists the very first Robust Pick Up in the process of being built.

Look out for the tailgate at 54 seconds and cabin at 2.07 minutes.

Robust Pick Up will start full production this Fall/Spring.

Source: YouTube

Volkswagen to purchase Scania shares from Porsche

2009-02-14T07:09:00.000+10:30

Wolfsburg, 13 February 2009 - Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft will shortly purchase the Scania shares to the value of approximately 395 million euros tendered to Porsche Automobil Holding SE under the mandatory offer, thus bringing Volkswagen’s stake in Scania to approximately 49.29 percent of the capital and approximately 71.81 percent of the voting rights.

4,398,139 Scania A-shares and 59,037,822 B-shares were tendered to Porsche Automobil Holding SE under the mandatory offer. This corresponds to approximately 7.93 percent of Scania share capital and approximately 2.34 percent of the voting rights.

As at December 31, 2008 the Volkswagen stake in Scania was approximately 41.36 percent of the share capital and approximately 69.47 percent of the voting rights.

Source: Volkswagen

Volkswagen and Toshiba sign letter of intent

2009-02-13T21:02:00.000+10:30

Professor Winterkorn: A move forwards in the development of electric vehicles

Wolfsburg, 12 February 2009 - Volkswagen AG (Wolfsburg) and the Toshiba Corporation (Tokyo) have signed today a letter of intent in Wolfsburg. The objective is a cooperation for the development of electric drive units and the accompanying power electronics for Volkswagen's planned New Small Family. Furthermore, Volkswagen and Toshiba are planning the development of battery systems with a high specific energy density for the next generation of electric vehicles.

The chairman of the board of management at Volkswagen AG, Prof. Dr Martin Winterkorn, emphasised: "Volkswagen is forging ahead with the development of future drive technologies in many different areas. In order to further strengthen our position, Volkswagen is investing in the long term and is offering cooperation projects to other companies. One of the important components in this context is the cooperation with Toshiba. I am convinced that this will be a major step forward towards the development of series production electric vehicles for our customers." Volkswagen's objective, he said, is to be the first manufacturer to provide an emissions-free, affordable and safe large-scale production electric vehicle. "A considerable amount of research and development work still has to be carried out until we can produce the electric vehicle, in the field of lithium-ion battery technology in particular and this is an area in which the Volkswagen Group is working with further potential technological partners alongside Toshiba ", stated Prof. Dr Winterkorn.

The letter of intent was signed by Prof. Dr Winterkorn and Atsutoshi Nishida, president and chief executive officer of the Toshiba Corporation. Nishida said: "We look forward to building up a mutually beneficial partnership with Volkswagen, a clear leader in the automotive industry making strong initiatives in the development of environmentally-friendly cars. The combined know-how of the two international technology groups Volkswagen and Toshiba will be an important step towards the drive technologies of tomorrow." He continued that this is a good signal for mobility based on ecology and economy.

Source: Volkswagen

UnitedPicturesTV at the BlueMotion Technologies Workshop

2009-02-13T20:55:00.001+10:30

Group and core brand extend market share in January

2009-02-12T18:59:00.001+10:30

Group sales and marketing chief Wittig: “Systematically continue with growth strategy”

Group and core brand hold ground well compared with competition
Wolfsburg, 11 February 2009 - The Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand delivered 246,700 vehicles to customers worldwide in January (2008: 287,500; -14.1 percent). The Volkswagen Group delivered 382,000 vehicles worldwide during the same period (2008: 485,300; -21.3 percent).* As expected, deliveries by the world’s third largest automaker were below the record levels of the same month in 2008 as a consequence of the global economic and financial crisis, but the Group and its core brand nevertheless performed noticeably better than global competition (-24.1 percent).

"In January, global deliveries by the Group and the Volkswagen core brand again developed better than was the case for our competitors. Moreover, we were able to extend our market share further in key markets," Detlef Wittig, Executive Vice President, Group Sales and Marketing, commented. He added that sharply contracting overall markets during the first month of this year nevertheless showed that no improvement in the global economic crisis was in sight at the moment. "Our long-term growth targets remain valid despite the difficult overall conditions," Wittig stated, going on to say that the Group was well placed to achieve these targets given its widely varied young model range, innovative environmental technologies such as BlueMotion, DSG and TDI as well as numerous new model launches in 2009.

Market share in key markets extended further in January
Despite the difficult market environment, the Group extended market share on markets such as Germany (from 32.2 to 32.9 percent), Western Europe (from 18.7 to 20.1 percent) and the USA (from 2.0 to 2.7 percent) in January, thus strengthening its market position.

Fox, Polo, Golf, Seat Ibiza and Ŝkoda Fabia above prior-year levels in Germany
In Germany, the Group brands delivered 53,300 vehicles in January (previous year: 64,700; -17.7 percent), with Volkswagen, the core brand, delivering 29,500 passenger cars (previous year: 33,800; -12.8 percent) to customers on its domestic market. "Consumer acceptance of the environmental bonus has significantly boosted demand, in particular for small and compact cars such as the Fox, Polo, Golf, Seat Ibiza and Ŝkoda Fabia, since January. Delivery figures for these models are all higher than last year," Wittig said.

Absolute growth in deliveries to Russia and Brazil
In Russia, the Group even defied the strongly negative market trend, delivering 6,600 vehicles, representing an increase of 12.7 percent (previous year: 5,800 vehicles). In Brazil, too, deliveries were higher than January 2008: here, the Group reported a rise of 1.3 percent with 47,600 vehicles delivered (previous year: 47,000).

In the USA, the Group delivered 17,600 vehicles (previous year: 21,275; -17.3 percent), thus faring noticeably better than the competition (market: -37.1 percent).

On an overall European market that remained very weak, the Group brands delivered 184,000 vehicles in January (previous year: 262,100; -29.8 percent).

In China, the Group delivered 83,900 vehicles in January (previous year: 94,200; -10.9 percent).

*excluding Scania

Source: Volkswagen

Not VW's New Midsize Sedan but Close !!!

2009-02-08T11:57:00.000+10:30

Spy shot of 2010 Passat Lingyu

Chinese Automotive website Cheshi.com has spy shots of the Passat Lingyu facelift which is based on a stretched version of the Passat B5 platform measuring overall 4.78 metres in length.

As we can see from the image the 2010 model has being influenced by the Phaeton, with a cleaner grill and headlight treatment and new compact wing mirrors for better aerodynamics; this design could also provide vital design clues to Volkswagen's New Midsize Sedan to the US.

Shanghai Volkswagen is leading the development of New Midsize Sedan which will be produced in Shanghai and Chattanooga respectively.

Current Passat Lingyu produced since 2005

The 2010 Passat Lingyu will carry over the current engine range which comprises of a 2.0L 114hp/85kW with multi point injection, the evergreen 1.8T 148hp/110kW and the 2.8 V6 188hp/140kW.

The 2010 model will debut at the 2009 Shanghai Auto Show in April this year with production to start shortly after.

Image Source: Cheshi.com and Volkswagen

BlueMotionTechnologies - Touareg V6 TSI Hybrid

2009-02-03T12:32:00.000+10:30

Prototype: Touareg Hybrid with new V6 TSI can tow 3.5 metric tons

Charged V6 TSI and E-motor drive fuel consumption below 9 liters

Hybrid module was integrated between V6 TSI and 8-speed automatic

Wolfsburg, 02 February 2009
In parallel to pure gasoline and diesel versions, Volkswagen will be bringing the next version of the Touareg to market as a hybrid version too. Average fuel consumption: less than 9.0 liters fuel per 100 kilometers. CO2 emissions: less than 210 g/km. For the first time, there is now a near-production prototype that offers initial glimpses of the full hybrid technology that will be implemented on the future Touareg. This experimental platform has its conceptual basis in the current generation of the SUV. The car’s powertrain already embodies many aspects of the future Touareg Hybrid. It will be powered by a new V6 TSI – a highly advanced gasoline direct injection engine boosted by a mechanically-driven supercharger – in tandem with an electric motor. It will have a newly developed 8-speed automatic transmission. Volkswagen will be implementing a parallel hybrid drive on the future Touareg V6 TSI Hybrid. This version of the SUV will have a high-performance, full-time all-wheel drive too.

V6 TSI stands for maximum power with minimum consumption
The V6 TSI on the Touareg prototype is fun to drive and delivers 245 kW / 333 PS at 5,500 rpm. From its 2,995 cm3 displacement, it generates a maximum torque of 440 Newton-meters starting from 3,000 rpm. These characteristics match those of the Touareg with an eight cylinder engine, yet with the V6 TSI it is significantly more fuel efficient. This represents the principle of intelligent downsizing (less displacement plus gasoline direct injection plus inlet boosting) already established by Volkswagen on the globally successful TSI four cylinder engines, and it is now being applied to six-cylinder engines. The results are convincing. The substantial torque delivery that came from using a supercharger becomes even more fascinating with the addition of the E-motor, especially at low speeds. If required, an exceptional amount of torque is available from a standstill – a bonus that comes from a system that is designed for efficiency. To increase further this efficiency, the V6 TSI makes use of a switchable engine water pump. This remains off during the warm-up phase, ensuring rapid achievement of fuel efficient operation.. The pump is integrated into the vehicle’s overall heat management system.

V6 TSI plus E-motor drives fuel consumption below 9.0 liters
The E-motor integrated between the V6 TSI and the 8-speed automatic transmission adds power of 38 kW / 52 PS and up to 300 Newton-meters torque. In so-called boosting – where requests for maximum power and torque (by kickdown or gearshift selector in "S" position) are supported by the engagement of both V6 TSI and electric drive systems – the powertrain briefly supplies a power of 275 kW / 374 PS and the maximum available torque increases to 550 Newton-meters. In this case, the Touareg V6 TSI Hybrid prototype accelerates to 100 km/h in just 6.8 seconds.

The hybrid system of the Touareg was not designed to deliver sports car performance. Its purpose is to deliver very low emissions and fuel consumption values. It may therefore come as a surprise to learn that this exceptional performance is accompanied by an average fuel consumption of less than 9.0 liters per 100 kilometers. CO2 emissions are less than 210 g/km. The Touareg V6 TSI Hybrid will attain the limits of the Euro-5 and American ULEV2 emissions standards.

More than 25 percent better fuel economy
Compared to a conventional SUV of the same size, the hybrid concept yields fuel savings of more than 25 percent in city driving. Development engineers calculate an average savings of 17 percent in combined city, highway and freeway driving. Essentially, there are four parameters with which the Volkswagen prototype achieves this improved fuel economy.

Start-stop system: an integrated start-stop system significantly reduces fuel consumption, especially in urban driving.

Regenerative braking: during braking, the E-motor operates as a generator and recovers energy, which is then stored in the high voltage battery (NiMH batteries). This means that the E-motor recovers a proportion of the energy that would otherwise be rejected in the form of heat through the braking system. It comes into effect progressively during the initial travel of the brake pedal.

The E-motor: The vehicle can operate on the electric motor alone at speeds of up to 50 km/h, which reduces fuel consumption in city driving. In this case the V6 TSI is turned off, and it is disconnected from the transmission by a disengagement clutch. In this condition the Touareg V6 TSI Hybrid operates with zero emissions. Electric current flows from the battery to the E-motor via the power electronics which incorporates a pulse controlled inverter. On the later production version, there are also plans for a special E-switch that the driver can activate for pure electric driving.

Coasting: as soon as the driver removes his or her foot from the gas pedal, a clutch disengages the V6 TSI from the transmission. This is even possible at higher speeds – in the later production version up to about 160 km/h – and therefore in freeway driving as well. This eliminates mechanical drag losses, which in turn makes the Touareg coast significantly better. The driver can convert this directly into improved fuel economy by adopting an anticipatory driving style.

Intelligent energy mix
With regard to powertrain types – and their associated energy flows – besides electric driving and coasting there are two other operating modes: classic driving with internal combustion engine and the boosting that is typical of hybrid vehicles.

When driving with just the internal combustion engine, there are two possible modes of operation. In the first case, the Touareg is driven like a conventional vehicle with the E-motor performing the function of a conventional 12 V alternator, which it replaces, to supply sufficient energy for the vehicle’s electrical system and maintain battery charge (in this case a high voltage battery). In the second case, the engine supplies the energy needed to propel the vehicle plus the energy needed to charge the high voltage battery via the E-motor, but at a higher rate, replacing energy taken from battery when in conditions when the E-motor has been operating as an electric motor. This so-called load point shifting makes it possible to operate the engine at a more favorable level of efficiency in the engine load/speed map. The job of hybrid control is now to regulate this alternation of electric driving phases and active charge phases to achieve minimal fuel consumption.

Boosting: when the driver consciously activates a request for maximum power (kickdown or gearshift lever in "S" position), the E-motor supports the V6 TSI beyond the engine’s full-load curve. The powers and torques of these two motors are then transferred to the front and rear axles by the 8-speed automatic transmission. As previously mentioned, this briefly makes available a total combined power of up to 275 kW / 374 PS and a maximum torque of 550 Newton-meters.

In addition, since it can be controlled extremely quickly the E-motor is also used – in the framework of so-called transient compensation – to make positive and negative torque interventions. For example, when the driver makes a positive load request the E-motor briefly boosts the V6 TSI until it has reached its steady-state target value. This allows the Touareg Hybrid to keep accelerating. Negative torque interventions largely replace classic interventions via the internal combustion engine that are not optimal for efficiency, but are needed for occupant comfort during gear shifting or sudden charge changes.

The specific mode that is activated is shown by an energy flow indicator in the display of the RNS 510 radio-navigation system installed in the prototype vehicle.

Basic technical layout of the hybrid drive
Volkswagen has chosen a parallel hybrid drive for use in the Touareg. In contrast to other possible hybrid systems, both off-road properties and unlimited continuous climbing capabilities are assured. With a maximum trailer load of up to 3.5 metric tons, the Touareg V6 TSI Hybrid can also be recommended as an ideal towing vehicle. Furthermore, the parallel hybrid approach offers a higher level of efficiency than alterne hybrid concepts in cross-country and freeway driving.

The powertrain itself primarily consists of the V6 TSI, the 8-speed automatic transmission that is also ideally suited for hybrid and tow vehicle use and the hybrid module integrated between the internal combustion engine and the automatic transmission. The latter weighs 55 kilograms. The compact module houses – in one unit – the disengagement clutch located after the V6 engine and the E-motor.

The interplay of components is "directed" by a hybrid manager. This multi-functional unit is integrated in the engine controller and communicates via the CAN bus lines with units such as the automatic transmission, high voltage battery and so-called power electronics that controls the electric motor. The latter also manages the energy flow between the electric motor and battery. Using the DC/DC converter, the power electronics also ensures that the car’s 12V electrical system is supplied via the E-motor or the high voltage battery. Depending on the charge state of the battery (capacity: 6 Ah), vehicle speed and other vehicle-specific parameters, the hybrid manager automatically selects the ideal operating mode based on lightning fast analysis of all signals.

Nickel metal hydride battery in detail
The nickel metal-hydride battery used in the Touareg V6 TSI Hybrid reflects what is currently the best and most practical electric storage system for automobiles. Functional safety, robustness and cost are all factors that favor the high-performance NiMH battery.

The battery is located in a space saving area. On the prototype the cargo floor has been raised by 50 millimeters. The battery weighs 67 kilograms, consists of a total of 240 individual cells and therefore generates a voltage of 288 Volt. An additional duct integrated in the Touareg’s interior ventilation system and two separate fans are used to keep the battery within an optimal temperature range. A battery manager continually monitors battery charge by coordinating data with the hybrid manager integrated in the engine controller.

Special power cables connect the battery to the power electronics – located to the left of the engine in the front of the vehicle – to supply the E-motor with energy or – in the reverse case – to charge the battery by E-motor while it acts as a generator when braking (regenerative braking) or by the V6 TSI (via load point shift). In the event of a crash, the high voltage battery is protected by what is known as a "Protect Box". The battery system, which includes the Protect Box, battery and ventilation components, weighs 79 kilograms.

Partial compensation for added weight of hybrid system
To compensate for a portion of the weight of the hybrid components (about 175 kilograms), the prototype exhibits numerous modifications compared to the production vehicle. One example is the full-time 4XMotion all-wheel drive. In today’s Touareg, the drive is transferred to the front and rear axles via a transfer box which contains a lockable central differential and a two-speed range gearbox. On the Touareg V6 TSI Hybrid this is replaced by a lighter Torsen differential similar to the one Audi uses on the Q7. All the traditional capabilities of the Touareg are fully preserved, such as its optimal properties as a towing vehicle.

Other changes compared to the production Touareg
Various components have been redeveloped to retain all the traditional convenience and safety-related functions of the standard Touareg in the Touareg V6 TSI Hybrid. For example, the prototype has electro-hydraulic power steering, which does not have to rely on a servo pump driven by the internal combustion engine. In addition, a high voltage air conditioning compressor guarantees comfortable interior temperatures on the Touareg V6 TSI Hybrid, even when the V6 engine is switched off. Instead of an alternator, the DC/DC converter integrated in the power electronics ensures a constant supply of power to the vehicle electrical system.

The 8-speed automatic transmission was also specifically tuned for hybrid use. Among other things, it received a special torque converter with larger lock-up system, an auxiliary electric oil pump (to maintain a supply of oil when the V6 TSI is switched off), a transmission heater to reach optimal operating temperature faster, and a modified transmission controller.

Car is started by electric motor
The E-motor now takes over the role of engine starter motor. This job is especially challenging, since restarting of the V6 TSI must be executed with a high degree of smoothness and precision to maintain comfortable transitions between the various modes of propulsion. As soon as the engine is to be restarted, the transmission’s lock-up torque converter is put in the "Slip" position and the E-motor’s speed is increased to a setpoint value prescribed by the transmission controller. Only then does the engine controller receive an enable to actuate the disengagement clutch. The E-motor "drags up" the V6 TSI by subsequent engagement of the clutch and, as soon as the cylinders fill, the engine is started by enabling of injection and ignition. The E-motor’s torque is increased by the amount of the momentary torque transferred by the disengagement clutch during the drag operation and – after the internal combustion engine has started – it is reduced again in response to the increase in engine torque. When positive engagement occurs at the disengagement clutch, the lock-up torque converter is engaged again. All of this sounds complicated, and it is complicated, but the system operates in such a way that the driver and occupants are completely unaware of its contribution to smooth progress. And that is just how things should be.

To the Point: BlueMotionTechnologies

2009-02-03T12:29:00.000+10:30

A new umbrella brand for the world of efficiency

Wolfsburg, 02 February 2009 - Passat BlueMotion – new 110-PS TDI consumes just 4.9 liters

-Passat BlueTDI – new 143-PS TDI with SCR catalytic converter attains limits of Euro-6 standard

-Passat TSI EcoFuel – first car with direct-injection natural gas engine

-Touareg Hybrid – new V6 TSI and E-motor drive consumption below 9 liters

In the first part of this year, Volkswagen will simultaneously launch three extremely fuel-efficient Passat versions with low emissions to the market: the second generation of the Passat BlueMotion, the Passat BlueTDI and the Passat TSI EcoFuel. Each of these new Passats represents an individual solution tailored to meet the challenges of our times. Volkswagen is presenting all three Passats under a new umbrella brand: BlueMotionTechnologies. This label covers all production-mature or near-production technologies and products that significantly reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

BlueMotionTechnologies These are developments such as the new start-stop system, regenerative braking and the highly innovative SCR catalytic converter and the NOx storage catalytic converter already implemented successfully in the USA electric drive and hybrid systems. Also included are the innovative drive systems of the new TSI EcoFuel. These technologies are proof that Volkswagen is once again leading the way with innovative, efficient and cost effective solutions for the future. Recent beginnings of this process can be seen in the Polo BlueMotion, which in 2006 was the first five-seater to reduce fuel consumption below 4.0 liters per 100 kilometers.

The extent of today’s BlueMotion range currently extends from this Polo to the Golf, Jetta, Caddy, Touran, Sharan, and up to the new Passat BlueMotion. A recent survey by the organization "Deutsche Automobil Treuhand DAT", the renowned and world’s oldest institution for automotive market research, demonstrates just how successful the BlueMotion label has become today. In a representative survey, the esteemed DAT found that 85 percent of German car drivers are familiar with the BlueMotion label. The next best competitor only attained a recognition level of 36 percent. This makes BlueMotion the number 1 among automotive environmental labels in Germany.

The term BlueMotionTechnologies does not define a fixed set of technologies but a range of continually evolving, innovative solutions. Under the same label, Volkswagen is offering an initial look at the prototype of the new Touareg Hybrid. The powertrain technology implemented here will go into production with the next generation Touareg. Average fuel consumption: less than 9.0 liters per 100 kilometers. CO2 emissions: less than 210 g/km. The countdown has already started for this car.

Representative of just how innovative BlueMotionTechnologies are in the 2009 product lineup, is the current Passat – a mid-class model that has long claimed a position as the most fuel efficient, cleanest and most economical car in its class.

Take the Passat BlueMotion, for example: Here a new common rail TDI (81 kW / 110 PS) delivers pioneering 4.9 liter average fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of just 128 g/km (Wagon: 129 g/km). The Passat BlueMotion has a start-stop system as standard equipment and attains the limits of the Euro-5 emissions standard that takes effect in September. Its range of over 1,400 kilometers on one tank of fuel is a sensation as well – travelers starting out in Berlin will not be looking for a gas station until shortly before Rome! This car is already being sold.

Consider the Passat BlueTDI. This diesel is far ahead of its time: it will be the first TDI launched by Volkswagen to attain the limits of the Euro-6 emissions standard that does not become law until 2014. Aboard the Passat BlueTDI, a so-called SCR catalytic converter reduces nitrogen oxides to a level below 80 mg/km. Production of the 105 kW / 143 PS Passat BlueTDI will ramp up at the beginning of March. Fuel consumption of the sedan with standard 6-speed transmission: 5.2 liters per 100 kilometers. This yields CO2 emissions of 137 g/km (Wagon: 5.5 liters per 100 kilometers / 144 g/km CO2). As an option, the Passat BlueTDI is available with a 6-speed DSG. The Passat BlueTDI is positioned above the Passat BlueMotion due to its greater power and more sophisticated emissions control system.

Take the example of the Passat TSI EcoFuel: The TSI EcoFuel, boosted by supercharger and turbocharger, revolutionizes the world of cars powered by natural gas. Never before has there been a natural gas vehicle with this kind of dynamic performance that is so fuel efficient and clean. The Passat TSI EcoFuel breaks the 120 gram CO2 barrier. In natural gas mode its driver pays less than 4.25 Euros* per 100 kilometers; and its engine – with 110 kW / 150 PS – delivers precisely the type of performance one would want in a highly comfortable travel car like the Passat.

Touareg V6 TSI Hybrid in detail – prototype with near-production technology
The Touareg Hybrid prototype being demonstrated incorporates many features of the production vehicle of tomorrow. The car is powered by a new V6 TSI – a highly advanced configuration of a direct injection gasoline engine boosted by a mechanically-driven supercharger – in tandem with an electric motor. It features a newly developed 8-speed automatic transmission. Volkswagen is implementing a parallel hybrid drive on the future Touareg V6 TSI Hybrid. The SUV is able to offer a state-of-the-art all-wheel drive system and up to 3.5 metric tons towing capacity in this version too.

The V6 TSI on the Touareg is clearly happy at high revs and exhibits agile response. It delivers 245 kW / 333 PS. This places the TSI at the same power level as an eight cylinder engine, yet it is considerably more fuel efficient. When used in the hybrid drive, fuel consumption of less than 9.0 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers is attained. The electric motor installed between the V6 TSI and the 8-speed automatic transmission delivers a maximum power of 38 kW / 52 PS. In boosting mode – where maximum torque and power are required, the V6 TSI engine and the electric motor operate together (by kickdown or gearshift selector in "S" position). Under these conditions, a temporary maximum power of 275 kW / 374 PS is available with a maximum torque of 550 Newton-meter. However, it should be stated that the system is primarily designed for excellent fuel consumptions and emissions and that the availability of temporary high performance is just a welcome side benefit.

Passat BlueMotion in detail – the most fuel efficient Passat of all times
BlueMotion is the Volkswagen label for the most fuel efficient cars of the brand. The BlueMotion version of the large Passat is especially successful. That is why Volkswagen is launching its second generation of BlueMotion cars with this model. Dealers are already making first deliveries of the new Passat BlueMotion. This Volkswagen – offered as a sedan or wagon – is now powered by a new highly advanced version of the common rail turbo-diesel with 81 kW / 110 PS. Aboard the Passat BlueMotion, as mentioned, the engine consumes only 4.9 liters fuel per 100 kilometers; accordingly, its CO2 emissions are also low at 128 g/km (Wagon: 129 g/km).

In addition, a start-stop system is being implemented that is highly effective, especially in city driving. Also new in the technology package of the most fuel efficient Passat of all times: longer gear ratios, low-friction drive shafts, super reduced rolling resistance tires and extra lightweight wheels made of flow-formed steel. The material thickness of these wheels is lower in certain sections to save on weight. The BlueMotion package can be ordered in combination with one of the four equipment variants Trendline, Comfortline, Highline or Sportline. Always included: the particulate filter.

Passat BlueTDI in detail – the cleanest Passat TDI of all times
In just a few weeks, the Passat BlueTDI will be launched on initial European markets, serving as a frontrunner for an entirely new series of pioneering BlueTDI models. This new model already attains the limits of the Euro-6 emission standard that does not take effect until the year 2014.

A highly sophisticated SCR catalytic converter – together with the additive AdBlue – ensures significant reduction of nitrogen oxides in the exhaust gases. The acronym SCR stands for "Selective Catalytic Reduction". "Selective" refers to the fact that this catalytic converter selectively converts nitrogen oxide (NOx) components in the exhaust into nitrogen and water without forming undesirable by-products. This makes the Passat BlueTDI the most environmentally-friendly diesel production car in the world.

Technically speaking, the Passat BlueTDI is based on the 103 kW / 140 PS, 2.0 liter common rail engine. However, the BlueTDI develops 105 kW / 143 PS and despite the slight increase in power, it consumes up to 0.4 liter less than the conventional TDI, depending on body version. On the Passat Wagon BlueTDI, fuel consumption is 5.5 liters per 100 kilometers (144 g/km CO2); on the sedan it is 5.2 liters (137 g/km CO2).

Passat TSI EcoFuel in detail – the most dynamic natural gas car of all times
The Passat TSI EcoFuel is ushering in a new era of cars powered by natural gas. Until now, one of the drawbacks of cars powered by natural gas – a fuel that is as environmentally-friendly as it is economical – has been that performance can be rather unexciting. Thanks to its advanced, 110 kW / 150 PS engine, the Passat TSI EcoFuel combines a maximum speed of 210 km/h with excellent fuel consumption and finally puts an end to the myth that natural gas cars are slow.. The natural gas powered Passat accelerates to 100 km/h in just 9.7 seconds.

Despite its great agility, the world’s first turbocharged and supercharged direct-injection engine configured for natural gas operation in the Passat, and equipped with a 7-speed dual clutch transmission (DSG) it requires just 4.4 kilograms (!) of natural gas per 100 kilometers (cost point: just 4.25 Euros* / 100 km). At 119 g/km CO2, the Passat breaks the 120 g/km CO2 barrier. Market launch for both the Passat and Passat Wagon TSI EcoFuel is already scheduled for the first part of 2009.

BlueMotionTechnologies – Volkswagen presents a new world of efficiency

2009-02-03T06:08:00.000+10:30

Wolfsburg, 02 February 2009 - BlueMotionTechnologies bundles Volkswagen’s best environmental technologies of today to fulfill the automotive aspirations of tomorrow. These are developments such as the new start-stop system and energy recovery by regenerative braking, electric drives and hybrid systems as well as clever drive systems like the one in the new TSI EcoFuel. To the point: its aim is no less than to bring the cleanest and most economical cars to the streets.

Today, BlueMotionTechnologies are already being launched on the market in three extremely fuel efficient and clean Passat versions: BlueMotion with fuel consumption under 5 liters, EU-6 conformance in the BlueTDI, and the TSI EcoFuel that emits just 119 g/km CO2. Consider these examples:

Passat BlueMotion II

Passat BlueMotion: Here a common rail TDI (81 kW/110 PS) provides for 4.9 liter fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of just 128 g/km. The Passat BlueMotion (starting at 26,750 €) has a Start-Stop system and conforms to limits of the Euro-5 emissions standard. Its range of over 1,400 kilometers on one tank of fuel is a minor sensation – travelers starting out in Berlin will not be looking for a gas station until shortly before Rome. Naturally, the Passat BlueMotion will also be available as a wagon (starting at € 27,900).

Passat BlueTDI

Passat BlueTDI: Its 105-kW diesel is ahead of its times; that is because Volkswagen is introducing the first TDI to conform to limits of the Euro-6 emissions standard that does not take effect until 2014. Aboard the Passat BlueTDI (starting at € 29,225), a SCR catalytic converter reduces nitrogen oxides to less than 80 mg/km. Fuel economy of the sedan shifted by a 6-speed gearbox: 5.2 liter/100-km (CO2 emissions: 137 g/km). Further options: the “BlueTDI” will also be available as a wagon (starting at € 30,375), and it will be available with a 6-speed DSG.

Passat TSI EcoFuel: The Passat TSI EcoFuel is ushering in a new era of cars powered by natural gas. Until now, one of the drawbacks of cars powered by natural gas is that their performance can be rather unexciting. Thanks to its 110 kW strong high-tech engine, the Passat TSI EcoFuel combines a maximum speed of 210 km/h with excellent fuel economy and finally puts an end to these limitations. The car accelerates to 100 km/h in just 9.7 seconds. Despite its great agility, the world’s first turbocharged and supercharged direct-injection engine configured for natural gas operation is satisfied with just 4.4 kilograms of natural gas, which is about € 4.25 per 100 kilometers. With a 7-speed DSG, the Passat breaks the magic CO2 limit of 120 g/km in this class (6-speed transmission: 4.5 kg/100-km and 123 g/km CO2). If the natural gas on board should run low before the next fill-up station, the engine controller switches over to gasoline mode. The car has a total range of more than 900 kilometers. The Passat TSI EcoFuel will be offered at a starting price of € 29,975; on the Wagon it is € 31,125.

Touareg V6 TSI Hybrid

Touareg V6 TSI Hybrid. Because the future of the automobile – and BlueMotionTechnologies as well – offers more than just one answer, in parallel Volkswagen is presenting a prototype of the future Touareg V6 TSI Hybrid (333 PS / under 9.0 l/100 km). This car will enter production in 2010 as the world’s first hybrid SUV to have 3.5 metric ton towing capacity. Volkswagen is introducing one of the highest performance parallel hybrid systems in the world in this SUV. The German carmaker is utilizing a high-tech alliance of a V6 TSI (245 kW) boosted by supercharger and an electric motor (38 kW). Up to a speed of 50 km/h, the Touareg V6 TSI Hybrid can be driven by just the electric motor. In this case, no emissions are generated.

For the first time Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles delivers more than 500,000 vehicles worldwide in 2008

2009-01-25T17:56:00.000+10:30

-Worldwide deliveries rose by 2.9 percent
-The market leadership in Europe has been extended

Hanover, 12th January 2009: For the first time in the company´s history, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has delivered more than half a million commercial vehicles in 2008. With 503,025 commercial vehicles delivered to customers, the brand increased its numbers by 2.9 percent compared to the previous year (2007: 488,726).
"Despite the difficult market trends in the second six months of the year we have achieved the best ever sales level in the history of our company, which we can be proud of, and rightly so," says Stephan Schaller, CEO of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. The brand achieved increases especially in its main markets of Europe and South America.

The T5 family was again the most sold product (Transporter and Multivan) resulting in 178,000 deliveries (2007: 191,200). The Caddy achieved a delivery result of 151,570 vehicles (2007:147,130). The Crafter also continued its positive development with 51,100 deliveries (2007: 46,160).

The models Saveiro and T2, manufactured in Brazil, rose to a total of 67,270 units (2007: 57,440). In 2008, the Truck & Bus category delivered 45,780 trucks (2007: 38.820) and 9,280 buses (2007: 7,960).

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles was able to further extend its market leadership in Europe delivering 332,372 light commercial vehicles and gaining an increase of 1.1 percent (2007: 328,766). The most important markets next to Germany, which had 124,850 deliveries, (increase of 2.3 percent) were in particular France (increase of 5.3 percent) and Italy (increase of 14.3 percent). In Central and East Europe, the deliveries rose by 22 percent to approximately 49,000 vehicles.

In South America deliveries rose by 18.6 percent to 119,100 light and heavy commercial vehicles delivered (2007: 100.440). In the main market of Brazil, 105,620 units were delivered – a rise of 23.7 percent compared to the previous year (85,370).

Harald Schomburg, member of the brand board of management of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles for sales and marketing: "Our customers continue to trust in the competence of our brand and models in these economically difficult times. This trust will also be our competitive advantage in the difficult year that lies ahead of us."

"Of course, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles cannot avoid the changed economic environment," emphasises Schaller. "However, we are holding on to our long-term goal of selling 750,000 light commercial vehicles in the year 2018." The new pick-up, further new products and the entry into new markets will continue to strengthen the course of the profitable growth of the brand in the coming years.

Podium ceremony in the presence of Volkswagen Board Member Dr Neumann

2009-01-19T06:11:00.000+10:30

The Volkswagen team that was victorious in the Dakar Rally was honoured in a manner befitting the occasion in Buenos Aires on Sunday.

Giniel de Villiers and Dirk von Zitzewitz drove their Race Touareg, numbered 305, onto the finish ramp through a crowd that had lined up on both sides of the road. On the ramp, the South African-German duo was officially celebrated as the winners of the "Dakar” debut in Argentina and Chile. After 14 legs and a total of about 9,500 kilometres they finished with a lead of 8m59s ahead of their team-mates Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford, who thus gave Volkswagen a one-two victory. The automobile manufacturer from Wolfsburg made history, clinching the first diesel win in the car class in the world’s toughest rally that has been staged since 1979.

Sixth place in the field of 168 contenders who had started to the event in the car class was secured by the two Germans Dieter Depping/Timo Gottschalk in the third Race Touareg. Carlos Sainz/Michel Périn had retired due to an accident while leading the twelfth stage. After 500,000 thrilled spectators had sent the participants off to the legendary desert classic in the heart of the Argentine capital on 2 January, another huge turnout at the finish now gave the victorious teams an enthusiastic welcome in the same way hundreds of thousands had been cheering the total of 530 participants during the rally day by day.

Dr Horst Neumann: "Top team and the art of engineering at its best”

Dr Horst Neumann, Member of the Executive Board of the Volkswagen Group with responsibility for Human Resources, was one of the first to offer congratulations, in this case of the entire Volkswagen board. "Volkswagen is proud to be standing at the very top of the podium of the Dakar Rally today! Giniel de Villiers and Dirk von Zitzewitz as the winners and Mark Miller and Ralph Pitchford as the runners-up have delivered a fantastic performance. Training and team spirit, a zest for achievement and full concentration have taken them to the pinnacle after months of preparation.”

"Behind them,” Neumann added, "is a top-calibre team to which we express our cordial congratulations and thanks as well. Its performance reflects the art of engineering at its best and – with the Race Touareg – has enabled the first ever victory of a diesel-powered vehicle in the world’s toughest rally. For many years, this team headed by Kris Nissen never let up and kept the faith in its success. Persistence and staying power pay off in the end”!

Kris Nissen: "The atmosphere in South America was overwhelming"

Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen has accompanied the Race Touareg project from day one and, as the individual responsible for it, has now clinched the biggest exploit with the diesel-powered prototype for Volkswagen in the brand’s more than 40-year history. "Winning the ‘Dakar’ is difficult,” he sums up the event. "There are many unknowns, predictions beforehand are impossible – particularly since we drove in South America for the first time, so it’s all the more rewarding that Volkswagen prevailed with a one-two victory.”

Kris Nissen draws a positive conclusion regarding the premiere of the Dakar Rally on a different continent. "The organiser, A.S.O., has successfully transferred the ‘Dakar’ to South America and immediately presented an accomplished, well organised event. The atmosphere during the two weeks was overwhelming. All teams were welcomed in a manner which confirmed better than anything else that the decision to go to South America had been the right one. The environment exuded the type of flair typically found in southern countries, while the conditions on the tracks were rough, and thus worthy of a ‘Dakar.’”

Kris Nissen: "Proud to be working with such a team"
Volkswagen made history at the 2009 Dakar Rally in a two-fold sense: The brand is the first automobile manufacturer to win the car class of the off-road classic with a diesel engine as well as being the winner of the "Dakar’s” debut event in South America.

As Volkswagen Motorsport Director, Kris Nissen is the man behind the fielding of the four Race Toaureg vehicles – and the one-two victory clinched by Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz and Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford.

What were the three best moments of the Dakar Rally for you?
Kris Nissen: "The start was one of the outstanding moments of the ‘Dakar’ straight from the outset because you could feel a whole country joining in the celebration. The ‘Dakar’ is known the world over, and everyone in Argentina and Chile wanted to witness the event ‘live’. Another moment occurred four or five days later when we realised that our preparation was paying off and that the team and the car were functioning perfectly. The third good moment was when we learned that Carlos Sainz and Michel Périn’s accident did not result in any severe damage to their health. This is very important for anyone in a position of responsibility in as large a team as Volkswagen’s. And then there was a fourth special moment – the arrival at the finish. That was simply an incredibly good feeling.”

Volkswagen is the first manufacturer to win the "Dakar” with a diesel-powered vehicle. How do you assess this exploit?
"I believe that this is a historic victory. Winning the ‘Dakar’ is a very difficult task. There are too many unknowns and it’s impossible to make any predictions beforehand. Volkswagen has been successful in this multi-dimensional sport from the outset and, for example, clinched stage wins with the Race Touareg as early as at the first ‘Dakar’ in 2004. The first podium result soon followed, and it was further improved by a second-place finish. In 2007, we were strong but minor issues cost us victory. In 2009, we were able to prove that we’ve got the best package in the overall outcome as well. Compared with our rivals from Mitsubishi and X-raid-BMW, Volkswagen – with its TDI technology – successfully demonstrated its diesel expertise. This is a nice realisation.”

And what does the "Dakar” victory mean to you personally?
"It’s no doubt a special kind of relief to have delivered almost perfect teamwork in the world’s most difficult race. ‘One team, one goal’ – that was our motto for this ‘Dakar’ and we breathed life into this commitment. We worked toward this goal for a long time. Now, the emotions are gradually emerging, we’re slowly starting to realise what we’ve really achieved. Looking our boys into the eyes, you’ll see that some have tears in them, while others are simply happy – and nobody is unhappy, to be sure. I’m proud of having been given the opportunity to work with such a squad, with such a fantastic team.”

What are the most important pieces of the puzzle in the Volkswagen Motorsport organization that have contributed to the "Dakar” exploit?
"You can divide this into two major areas. For one, with a small, powerful TDI diesel engine and a highly advanced chassis, we created the technical potential which gave us the best package on each of the special stages. In this area, the Volkswagen Motorsport technical staff, as well as Technical Development in Wolfsburg, are key elements. For the other, we get on well as a team – we’ve built a team in which all members handle their own tasks but also help out their colleagues. Everyone accepts everyone else. And that makes for a very cohesive squad.”

The TDI technology of the Volkswagen Group has been successful wherever it was used – for example, with Audi at the 24-hour race at Le Mans or in the SEAT in the World Touring Car Championship. Now, Volkswagen has won the "Dakar” with this concept. What gives this technology such a leading edge?
"First of all, the Volkswagen Group had paved the way for this technology from the outset, recognising its potential and driving the development forwards, step by step. As a consequence, it was possible to use this diesel technology – in collaboration with motorsport engineers – to put together good packages in the various disciplines, be it in touring car, sportscar or offroad racing. I personally believe that Volkswagen Group’s TDI technology is more advanced than that of others. And of course the exploits achieved in motorsport benefit the production side of the house as well.”

Another remarkable aspect at the Dakar Rally was the cool, calm and collected manner in which the team tackled its tasks. How would you rate the share the team has had in this exploit?
"Anyone who’s ever tried buttoning a shirt or putting on a tie under stress knows that this seldom produces the desired success. So, you’ve got to start all over two or three times. That’s what happens in a team at the Dakar Rally as well: if everyone takes a reasonable amount of time to finish a job, then the job will be finished in one go. That’s not only better but also quicker. I think we’ve successfully implemented this principle in our team. We’ve improved the way we communicate processes and can therefore distribute the load to several shoulders if necessary. This makes the whole team stronger. At the ‘Dakar’ this was a key factor. Although the loads put on the cars were heavier than ever, we were finished servicing them earlier than our rivals were, every day. And, as a result, our squad was constantly better rested than the others.”

A bit of luck is also necessary in order to be successful. Is there anything that should not have happened during the "Dakar” under any circumstances?
"In terms of technical aspects we were prepared well enough to always know where we stood. The worst thing that could have happened to us would have been a very large gap in trailing our rivals at the beginning of the rally, considering our restrained way of driving. In that case, it would have been difficult to slow down our drivers and to convince them to continue our pace. But the opposite happened: After a few days our rivals realised how strong we were, which at times prompted them to drive faster than their capabilities permitted. Carlos Sainz and his co-driver Michel Périn were always able to counter such attempts without taking any undue risks. I think that drove some of our competitors into making mistakes.”

But with Sainz/Périn a Race Touareg retired after an accident as well. Could all four Volkswagen vehicles in the field be expected to reach the finish?
"At such a tough rally you can’t expect to start with four cars and take all of them to the finish. As expected, we hardly encountered any technical problems. You can never prevent losing a car. We’ve got to accept that Carlos and Michel were unlucky. They set the pace and, as a result, frequently had to open the stage afterwards. That’s always a risk. I’m happy that they came out of the accident without serious consequences. However, compared with our immediate rivals, considering that we only had one car retire from the event, we did an outstanding job.”

Watching you in the bivouac one could feel the tension. What has made this Dakar Rally such a nerve-racking experience?
"At a cross-country rally, and particularly at the ‘Dakar’, the special stages are always very long and there is little information available as to how things are going during the stages. Even if you tap all the communications channels – such as receiving intermediate times via satellite phones – there is still a lot of uncertainty. For those waiting in the bivouac that’s sometimes hard to bear and the tension consistently rises. But after just a few days we knew that we were competitive on gravel and in sand and that we’re even a bit better than our rivals on these huge dunes. And I knew that the team was working well and without making mistakes and that the drivers were fully focused. In the end, all this served to calm me down again quite a bit.”

Volkswagen duo de Villiers/von Zitzewitz - a congenial pairing

When two people understand and trust each other blindly, throughout many hours a day, across a period of more than two weeks – the chemistry between them simply must be right.

Giniel de Villiers and Dirk von Zitzewitz are far more than just driver and co-driver to each other, but have been genuine friends for years. Having won the 2009 Dakar Rally will now weld them together for the rest of their lives. 36-year-old Giniel de Villiers from Stellenbosch in South Africa together with Dirk von Zitzewitz, who is four years older and hails from Karlshof in northern Germany, made history in the 280-hp diesel-powered Race Touareg not just in one but several respects: De Villiers/von Zitzewitz have given Volkswagen the first victory of a diesel-powered car in the 30-year history of the legendary "Dakar”, and they are the winners of the maiden event of this unique cross-country rally on the South American continent. By the way, Giniel de Villiers is the first African to win the desert classic that used to be staged in Africa.

"As a co-driver, you need to really trust the skills of your driver in order to be able to fully concentrate on navigating without being able to see the terrain all the time,” says Dirk von Zitzewitz. "Because of the many shocks inside the car you’ve got to constantly keep your body taut – but this can easily cause you to tense up if you don’t have complete faith in the driver’s abilities. This is exactly our distinguishing trait, though – the fact that we respect and highly value each other’s performance.” The result of this rapport is calm, focused communication during the up to eight hours of strenuous driving across gravel, scree, dunes and camel grass.

"When something goes wrong we don’t shout at each other but immediately – and calmly – look for a way out of the particular predicament,” says Giniel de Villiers. "This should not be taken for granted. And it’s the same way we deal with each other outside the cockpit as well. We can have oodles of fun together. We simply get on great with each other. During two weeks as intensive as those of the ‘Dakar’, when you’re spending many hours together in the car, that’s really worth a lot.”

Navigational flash of inspiration: preliminary "Dakar” decision on twelfth leg

The twelfth stage of the 2009 Dakar Rally showed how unusual the solutions de Villiers/von Zitzewitz come up with can be and how successful they are. When they got into an almost insurmountable field of scree, Dirk von Zitzewitz simply jumped out of the car and pointed the way to Giniel de Villiers. "I’ve never had an experience quite like this one before. I’ve never had to get out of the car to find the way,” the northern German says with a smile. "In the end – despite our low speed – this saved us a lot of time.”

On the same leg a navigational flash of inspiration on the last five kilometres of the special stage gave the South African-German duo the crucial advantage over Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford, their team colleagues in the Volkswagen that was leading the event at the time. "We’d been leading the rally on a previous occasion and then dropped to third place,” recalls Giniel de Villiers, who goes by the name of "Ginny” while Dirk von Zitzewitz’ nickname within the team is "Schnietzel”. "Then the twelfth leg came – an incredibly rough day for us. But about five kilometres before the finish Dirk recovered a lot of time for us by being the quickest to find the way out of the special stage while others were still looking for it.” Just one waypoint before, they had still been running about two minutes behind Miller/Pitchford, at the finish they were over 16 minutes in front. This was the preliminary decision.

Volkswagen’s one-two victory with de Villiers/von Zitzewitz and Miller/Pitchford

De Villiers/von Zitzewitz achieved four of the 13 possible stage wins and after 9,000 kilometres were 8m59s ahead of their team-mates Miller/Pitchford. Hence Volkswagen, the "Dakar” winner back in 1980 with Kottulinsky/Löffelmann in the Iltis, not only celebrated the historic first diesel-powered triumph but a one-two victory at that – with a total of ten stage wins. "Of course we’re proud of having been able to give Volkswagen this exploit,” unanimously says the winning duo. "And we’re grateful for being able to drive in such a strong team and such a reliable and fast car. Everything was simply perfect.”

Nevertheless, the road towards victory included setbacks as well. "When I announced the wrong way for a change on the tenth leg and this caused us to lose about 20 minutes of time, things were pretty quiet in the cockpit for the rest of the day,” says von Zitzewitz. "It’s not that we were blaming each other for this mishap – it’s just that we were simply frustrated for the remaining distance. These things don’t harm our friendship. We can never be angry with each other for a long time anyhow.”

Two multi-talented people share a cross-country rally cockpit on the second try

Giniel de Villiers and Dirk von Zitzewitz, who spend up to 150 days together per year, joined cross-country rally racing after having started in other disciplines. While the South African had five touring car titles to his credit at home before seeking a new challenge in off-road racing, the northern German switched to cars from motorcycles. As a 15-time German Enduro champion, von Zitzewitz contested his first "Dakar” on a motorcycle, switched to a co-driver’s cockpit in 2002 alongside Mark Miller, by the way, and in 2005 formed a team at Volkswagen with Robby Gordon – the three drivers who clinched top places in the 2009 "Dakar” as well.

"When I was sitting in the car with Giniel for the first time – that was during a test in 2005 – I immediately felt that we’d be a good match. My choice would have been to team up with him straight away but Volkswagen had selected Tina Thörner for him at the time. They already knew each other, so that seemed to be a logical choice. And, after all, they clinched second place in the 2006 ‘Dakar’ together.”

"We’ve got common goals for which we fight tooth and nail”

When the duo was finally united in 2006, this sparked the beginning of a successful partnership. During their first joint competition, the 2006 Tunisia Rally, they immediately clinched sixth place. Six further podium places followed. "We’ve got common goals for which we’re able to fight tooth and nail together as well,” says Giniel de Villiers. "But the good thing about it is that outside the cockpit we both have the ability not to take ourselves too seriously. This is what really makes me feel very comfortable about our teamwork.”

While de Villiers enjoys circuit racing as well and, together with Carlos Sainz, Hans-Joachim Stuck and Dieter Depping, finished the maiden race of the new Scirocco as the runner-up of Volkswagen’s one-two victory at the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring, Dirk von Zitzewitz cuts a good figure behind the steering wheel too. Whenever the opportunity presents itself, such as for so-called taxi rides for sponsors, von Zitzewitz really enjoys piloting the Race Touareg himself. "That’s huge fun for me,” says von Zitzewitz, who organises motorcycle training sessions and desert tours in his free time and certainly dreams of contesting the "Dakar” as a driver some day. No matter what these two may be involved in, they both work with maximum professionalism and dedication, but also have a good sense of humour. Their constant smiles are contagious and make them likable exponents of the Volkswagen team as well as of their

Volkswagen celebrates "Dakar's" first diesel triumph with one-two victory

2009-01-18T09:06:00.000+10:30

Only when passing the toughest motorsport test with flying colours, only when winning ten of 13 possible stages, and only when thrilling millions of people along the rally route in the process – only then will it be deemed "Das Auto” ("The Car”).

Volkswagen won the 2009 Dakar Rally in Argentina and Chile with the Race Touareg and thus made motorsport history. The exploit clinched by the South African-German duo Giniel de Villiers and Dirk von Zitzewitz in the debut event of the legendary desert classic in South America marked the first ever victory of a diesel-powered vehicle in the automobile class in the 30-year-history of the "Dakar”. Their Volkswagen team colleagues Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford (USA/ZA) as the runners-up completed the exploit as a one-two victory.

In the extremely tough test for man and material the Volkswagen Race Touareg with its innovative 280-hp TDI engine proved to be the fastest and most reliable car, while the field of contenders – featuring 14 top cars with diesel engines – was of a higher calibre than ever. Volkswagen defeated the serial "Dakar” winners, Mitsubishi, who had not been beaten since 2001, as well as the X-raid BMW team. Besides de Villiers/von Zitzewitz and Miller/Pitchford at the top, the German duo Dieter Depping/Timo Gottschalk in another Race Touareg finished the Dakar Rally, in sixth place overall. Carlos Sainz/Michel Périn (E/F) in another one of the Red Bull blue Race Touareg vehicles, who had been leading the class of the total of 168 cars that had started to the event on eight days, retired after an accident on the twelfth leg while leading the rally.

36-year-old Giniel de Villiers from Stellenbosch had already clinched second place at the "Dakar” in the Race Touareg in 2006. In 2003, the former South African touring car champion contested his first Dakar Rally, since 2006 he has been navigated by Dirk von Zitzewitz. The 40-year-old from Karlshof, and 15-time German Enduro champion, contested his first first "Dakar” on two wheels, switched into the cockpit as a co-driver in 2002, alongside Mark Miller by the way, and formed a team with Robby Gordon (2005) for Volkswagen as well. Since 2007 Dirk von Zitzewitz has been pointing the right way to Giniel de Villiers. 46-year-old Mark Miller from Phoenix/Arizona drove his first "Dakar” in 2002 and has been a Volkswagen factory driver since 2005, with Ralph Pitchford from Pretoria in his co-driver’s seat since 2006.

"Das Auto” prevails at "Dakar” straight from the start

Straight from the rally’s start, the Race Touareg crews set best stage times. A total of ten out of 13 possible stage wins at the "Dakar” went to Volkswagen, on twelve of the 14 rally days one of the cross-country rally prototypes from Wolfsburg was leading the event. The duo Carlos Sainz/Michel Périn decided six of the stages in its favour, while de Villiers/von Zitzewitz contributed four stage wins to the Race Touareg’s tally of success. In just five fieldings in the cross-country classic the prototype has achieved 31 stage victories since 2004, Volkswagen’s "Dakar” tally since 1980 reflects 38 stage wins. At the same time, the four Volkswagen pairings contesting this event showed a very close performance: On the 14 legs – one stage was cancelled by the organiser A.S.O. – the Volkswagen drivers occupied 24 of 39 possible top-three positions in the daily standings. Each of the duos finished at least three of the special stages in the top three places.

Race Touareg adds yet another chapter to TDI Power’s success story

For the Volkswagen Group, the Race Touareg’s "Dakar” victory also marked the continuation of a TDI success story. In motorsport, forward-thinking direct injection technology has now won in any of the fields in which it is being used: In addition to the exploit of the Race Touareg at the Dakar Rally, Audi – with the R10 TDI – celebrated its third consecutive victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in June 2008 and later won the title in the European Le Mans Series as well as in the American Le Mans Series, while SEAT in 2008 clinched its maiden title in the FIA World Touring Car Championship with the Léon TDI.

"Das Auto” thrills spectators along the toughest "Dakar” route

The Dakar Rally’s debut in South America has proved to be the toughest edition of the off-road classic so far as well as featuring a totally new change. Besides quick gravel stages – the first leg was completed at an average speed of 143 km/h – and long stretches of dune fields with soft sand, trial-like sections across scree, the two-time passage across the Andes with altitudes of up to 4,700 metres above mean sea level as well as sections with high camel grass were on the agenda of the "Dakar”. Unlike earlier editions, the rally’s daily variations of terrain put extreme demands on the adaptability of the teams.

Arriving at the bivouac and the locations where the legs finished provided an emotional reward to the drivers and co-drivers. Millions of thrilled spectators, 500,000 of them just during the ceremonial start in Buenos Aires on 2 January, lined the rally route and gave the total of 530 cross-country rally teams that had started to the event on motorcycles and quads as well as in cars and trucks an enthusiastic welcome every day.

Second "Dakar” exploit for Volkswagen after 1980

As early as in 1980 Volkswagen at its first – and for a long time only – entry won the Dakar Rally. Almost three decades ago, Freddy Kottulinsky and co-driver Gerhard Löffelmann won the second edition of the rally through Africa at the wheel of a Volkswagen Iltis, a nearly production-based car, followed by their French team-mates Patrick Zaniroli/Philippe Colesse – clinching a Volkswagen one-two victory back then as well. Two further Iltis vehicles finished in places four and nine. In 2003, Volkswagen returned to cross-country rally racing with breakthrough TDI technology, fielded the first generation of the Race Touareg in 2004 and won the FIA Cross Country Rally World Cup titles in 2005 and 2007. The one-two victory at the 2009 Dakar Rally marks the Race Touareg’s biggest single exploit.

Quotes at the finish

Kris Nissen (Volkswagen Motorsport Director)
"We did it: We wanted to be the first automobile manufacturer to win the Dakar Rally with diesel power. We have now managed to do this, and with a one-two victory at that. Volkswagen can truly be proud of this historic triumph. We’ve got ‘Das Auto’, we’ve got ‘The Team’ and together we have won ‘The Race’. Celebrating a one-two victory at this extremely tough rally is a major achievement. We not only beat our strongest rivals, Mitsubishi and X-raid-BMW, but prevailed against the Dakar Rally itself. It was more challenging, demanding and murderous on the material than ever. But Volkswagen was tougher, more reliable: Three of our four cars reached the finish, and not one of the Race Touareg vehicles retired due to a technical problem. I want to congratulate and thank the entire team and our successful drivers and co-drivers.”

#305 – Giniel de Villiers (ZA), 1st place leg / 1st place overall
"I’m so happy about having clinched this exploit for Volkswagen. This victory is worth more than any of the titles I won in touring car racing. The twelfth leg was the crucial day. Just before it I’d thought we’d be finishing in third place. I kept thinking about how our rival Stéphane Peterhansel lost the rally with a huge lead one day before the finish in 2003. And so we again led the rally after the twelfth leg as well. The Race Touareg was running absolutely like a charm, and at such a tough edition of the Dakar Rally at that. That was the key to success. I want to thank everyone at Volkswagen for this. Even though I’ve now ended up winning precisely the ‘Dakar’ that was not staged in Africa, which is home to me: It was definitely a genuine Dakar Rally, and the toughest edition I’ve ever contested.”

#305 – Dirk von Zitzewitz (D), co-driver
"I’m filled with incredible joy and relief. Up to the very end there was enormous pressure on us, and I only believed in our success after we’d completed the last special stage. I’ve experienced disappointments in motorsport only too often. This result with Volkswagen is simply fantastic! After completing the incredibly tough twelfth leg, I had a feeling that we could make it. If not now, when should we? And it worked out. It’s the biggest exploit in my career on both two and four wheels – it’s simply a dream.”

#308 – Mark Miller (USA), 6th place leg / 2nd place overall
"That’s a great result for Volkswagen after a difficult rally. It’s nice to have contributed to the brand’s one-two victory. This rally certainly compares well with the editions in Africa – it was extremely tough. I perceived the special stage from Fiambalá to Rioja as being the most difficult one I’ve ever contested. That was an edition of the rally I’ll definitely never forget. The Volkswagen team and the Volkswagen Race Touareg never let us down on this long drive.”

#308 – Ralph Pitchford (ZA), co-driver
"Congratulations to Volkswagen on this fantastic result – a wonderful rally, which was a lot of fun and very, very demanding for the drivers and co-drivers. This rally will be unforgettable not least because it ended with the best result for Mark and me. The car was outstanding and we took it to the finish in one piece.”

#301 – Carlos Sainz (E)
"We set the pace for a long time at the Dakar Rally and led it for a long time as well. That’s why it was a particularly bitter pill for my co-driver Michel Périn and me that we were forced to retire after an accident on the twelfth leg. One must never underestimate the Dakar Rally and prevail against it before being able to win. I congratulate my team colleagues Giniel de Villiers and Dirk von Zitzewitz on their ‘Dakar’ victory. They deserved winning this tough rally.”

#301 – Michel Périn (F), co-driver
"Congratulations to Volkswagen, to Giniel and Dirk – a fantastic result for the brand, to which we’d have liked to contribute as well. Unfortunately, we didn’t manage to do this although we had the best prospects almost up to the end of the rally. But that’s the ‘Dakar’.”

#307 – Dieter Depping (D), 13th place leg / 6th place overall
"A super success for Volkswagen, and I’m proud to be part of this team. I personally experienced the capabilities of TDI diesel power during the rally several times when I surmounted seemingly insurmountable dunes with the Race Touareg after all. For my co-driver Timo Gottschalk and me, the Dakar Rally had both ups and downs. With good stage results, as well as with good intermediate times, we showed that we can keep up with the big names in cross-country rally sport and beat them. My special thanks go to my mechanics who always gave us a perfectly prepared car despite working additional night shifts and who, like the rest of the team, really backed us in a tremendous way. I’d have liked giving them an even better result. Despite several setbacks we struggled through and, in the end, sixth place overall is a good result.”

#307 – Timo Gottschalk (D), co-driver
"The Dakar Rally has found a new home in Argentina and Chile. The special stages were tougher and more varied than ever. The continually changing terrain is one of the new challenges, which puts high demands on the driver and co-driver’s adaptability. In addition, the enthusiastic audience gave us a thrilling welcome along the daily legs. This has been a great debut of the ‘Dakar’ in South America, at which Dieter Depping and I had to deal with setbacks as well, though. But that’s part of it. The Volkswagen team performed an impressive feat and definitely deserves this one-two victory.”

Volkswagen consolidates lead with de Villiers and Miller

2009-01-17T10:19:00.000+10:30

Volkswagen consolidated its one-two lead with Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz and Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford on the 13th and penultimate leg of the Dakar Rally.

On the leg from La Rioja to Córdoba, which had been shortened from 753 to 631 kilometres, the advantage of the two Race Touareg vehicles running in front at the extremely tough desert rally increased yet again, despite a deliberately restrained driving style because their closest rivals, Robby Gordon/Andy Grider, lost 22m49s to the stage winners.

Nani Roma/Lucas Cruz rejoiced with Mitsubishi about their first stage victory, while Volkswagen in a favourite overall position had opted for a defensive, no-risk driving style driven by team spirit. Dieter Depping/Timo Gottschalk in the Red Bull blue Race Touareg finished the stage, which – as at the beginning of the rally – featured quick gravel sections similar to a sprint rally, in fourth place. Miller/Pitchford finished the day in seventh, and de Villiers/von Zitzewitz in eighth place.

36-year-old Giniel de Villiers is thus ranking in first place overall, 2m20s ahead of Mark Miller. Robby Gordon in third overall is lacking as much as 1h27m to the front runners. With Dieter Depping in seventh place, the third remaining Race Touareg before the final 792-kilometre leg to Buenos Aires is among the top ten of the legendary desert classic that is being staged in South America through Argentina and Chile for the first time and that will end on Sunday with the drive across the official finish ramp.

Coming up …

Friday, 17 January: Córdoba (RA) – Buenos Aires (RA). The "Dakar” debut in South America will end where it started: in the legendary pampas. After two weeks on all kinds of different terrain the participants will return to familiar ground on the last 792-kilometre leg before the rally’s finish. Again, there will be long and quick straight sections on the agenda – similar to those at the beginning of the rally.

Quotes after Leg 13
Kris Nissen (Volkswagen Motorsport Director)
"On the last two ‘Dakar’ legs, taking the three Race Touareg cars to the finish is of paramount importance. Our goal is not to clinch a stage win but the historic maiden victory of a diesel-powered vehicle at the legendary Dakar Rally. This is within reach now – for the final leg, this means: we will take the cars all the way to the finish. I have nothing but praise for the drivers and co-drivers’ excellent teamwork today. They perfectly followed our strategy and thus made another contribution towards achieving this big objective.”

#305 – Giniel de Villiers (ZA), 8th place leg / 1st place overall
"We approached the penultimate leg of the Dakar Rally very cautiously. The key thing was to deliver the car in good condition at the finish. That wasn’t easy because today’s stage in particular offered several opportunities to damage the car. Loose gravel demanded my full concentration because it was very slippery. On Saturday, we’ll have to complete the final stage with one hundred per cent concentration as well.”

#307 – Dieter Depping (D), 4th place leg / 7th place overall
"A very nice, very fast special stage which – yet again – very much resembled a classic sprint rally. That suited me extremely well and it was fun driving it. Today I had the part of accompanying the other two teams to the finish in the event this would have been necessary. I’ve got no problems with that whatsoever: The main thing is that at the end of this tough Dakar Rally a Volkswagen finishes as the winner. I’d do anything for that.”

#308 – Mark Miller (USA), 7th place leg / 2nd place overall
"The stage again offered lots of variety and, to be honest, we drove with reduced speed today. At this point of the rally, it’s all about taking it easy on the material, to keep from damaging anything and to see the finish every day. What’s more, we delivered good teamwork today. One thing is clear: We started the rally as a team and we’ll finish it as a team.”

Three questions for Volkswagen team physician Dr Markus Preuth
At the "Dakar” the drivers and co-drivers have to deliver top athletic performances in the cockpit. How did the Volkswagen factory drivers prepare themselves for this?
"In addition to special medical care, which is assured throughout the year, we conducted an altitude training programme with all the teams focused on both power and concentration. In Arosa, for example, we prepared for the ‘Dakar’ with climbing, mountain biking and hiking tours. I think this paid off in the teams’ performances, particularly on the tough legs.”

As a team doctor, how can you tell how fit the teams are during the "Dakar”?
"When the boys come in after completing the legs, sometimes after eight hours of working at the limit, they not only look fit. Based on a fluid balance we can tell whether or not the drivers and co-drivers drank enough and help to re-hydrate them. Despite truly strenuous stages – where the drivers even had to dig themselves out of the sand at times – we have not encountered any health problems whatsoever so far. Quite the opposite is true: the drivers have always handled the strains very well.”

On the medical side of the house, how do you manage to have the drivers and co-drivers recoup their energies within just a few hours – and for two weeks straight at that?
"Of course after returning from a stage the drivers and co-drivers need to get as much sleep as possible. But you can also do a lot in terms of nutrition and treatment. For example, after arriving at the bivouac the crews are immediately served pasta by our chef – to ‘refuel’ on carbohydrates. In addition, there are special re-hydration drinks. Afterwards, they receive physiotherapy during which the muscles are loosened and special treatment is applied individually at various locations. In addition to the muscles, this usually involves the tendons. We also use a joints and soft tissue technique to ensure the boys are fit again the next day.”

Source Volkswagen Motorsport

Volkswagen leads with Giniel de Villiers in front of Mark Miller

2009-01-16T06:04:00.000+10:30

Volkswagen has maintained a one-two lead on what proved to be the Dakar Rally’s most turbulent day so far.

On the twelfth of 14 legs Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz in the Race Touareg took the lead in front of their team-mates Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford. Carlos Sainz/Michel Périn, who had been leading the rally ever since the seventh leg, retired after an accident.

The 223-kilometre special stage from Fiambala to La Rioja saw not just one but two changes in the lead in the desert classic. Sainz/Périn had an accident after 79 kilometres, and Périn was flown out for further medical checks due to a suspected shoulder injury. On the special stage and in the virtual interim classification Miller/Pitchford were running in front over long distances and maintained their lead almost up to the final dune belt of the stage. But then de Villiers/von Zitzewitz converted a 2m18s gap into a 16m17s advantage. They thus took over first place overall as well and, before the last two legs, are running 2m35s in front of Miller/Pitchford, who are also driving a Race Touareg powered by 280 hp.

After the Spaniards Nani Roma/Lucas Cruz in the field of those chasing the front runners, as the only remaining Mitsubishi duo, encountered technical problems, Robby Gordon/Andy Grider in the Hummer are now in third place overall. However, they are lacking as much as 1h18m to the leading Volkswagen.

Kris Nissen (Volkswagen Motorsport Director)
"The most important news is that the accident of Carlos Sainz and Michel Périn did not result in any serious personal injuries but we still have to wait for the results of the in-depth medical checks. Apparently, Michel sustained a shoulder injury. I talked with both of them on the phone. They are both disappointed that the Dakar Rally is over for them; at the same time, they´re relieved that the incident did not result in serious consequences. We knew that to win we´d first have to overcome the ´Dakar´ itself. Our most promising team is now no longer in the race, but with Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford and Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz we´ve still got two irons in the fire to win the Dakar Rally with the Race Touareg.”

#301 – Carlos Sainz (E), retirement
"Suddenly, a four-metre deep hole appeared in front of us. We fell into it and landed on our roof. A BMW and Nani Roma were able to get around us at the last moment. The BMW team stopped and helped us to put the car back on its wheels. In the meantime an ASO doctor had arrived who briefly checked Michel Périn and barred him from continuing the drive on account of a shoulder injury. The Race Touareg was by and large okay, the engine was running. Of course we were lucky in this situation as well. I´m very disappointed and I´m very sorry for the team that we´re out, but I´m hoping that our team will win in the end anyhow.”

Source: Volkswagen Motorsport

Volkswagen goes to Dakar Rally's final spurt with leading trio

2009-01-15T05:47:00.000+10:30

Impressive spectator enthusiasm and fascinating landscapes that offer extremely tough sporting challenges: Volkswagen goes to the final spurt of the Dakar Rally featuring the event’s last three legs.

On the eleventh day of the rally the four Race Touareg vehicles with Carlos Sainz/Michel Périn, Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz, Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford and Dieter Depping/Timo Gottschalk completed a liaison stage from Copiapó via the Chilenian-Argentine border to Fiambalá and back to Argentina. The eleventh special stage was cancelled due to the late ending of the tenth leg the day before as well as an inclement weather forecast, and changed to a so-called liaison stage.

Continuing as the front runners in the overall standings are Carlos Sainz/Michel Périn in the Race Touareg marked as competition vehicle number 301. The Spanish-French duo has so far taken the Race Touareg powered by a 280-hp TDI diesel engine to six victories on ten legs. The tally of two-time world rally champion Sainz and three-time "Dakar” winner Périn reflects eight days on which the pairing led the event.

"Volkswagen can look at an interim result of the Dakar Rally that is positive across the board,” says Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen. "Eight out of ten stage victories show that the Race Touareg is the fastest car in the field. Furthermore, the fact that all four vehicles entered in the event are reaching Fiambalá, thus returning to Argentine soil, shows that we’ve got an extremely reliable car. Now, three more legs are on the agenda. The way the ‘Dakar’ has gone so far has taught us not to underestimate them. Particularly the twelfth leg on Thursday to La Rioja and the huge white dunes pose a tough challenge that puts man and material to yet another extremely severe test.”

A winner already: South American "Dakar” debut thrills the masses

Straight from the start, the Dakar Rally proved to be a crowd puller at its South American debut. More than 500,000 enthusiastic spectators witnessed the starting ceremony in Buenos Aires, over 80.000 of them flocked to the "Dakar Village” for the autograph sessions of the teams, and countless fans have been lining the route through Argentina and Chile on each of the rally days that have taken place so far.

The three-some of Volkswagen, X-raid-BMW and Mitsubishi treated them to a nail-biting fight for the lead, the thrill of which was fuelled by the extreme demands made on man and material. "I expected to see a lot of enthusiasm but this surpassed my wildest expectations. The huge turnout of fans – it’s incredible,” says Carlos Sainz, who – not least owing to his three world championship wins in Argentina – is being celebrated as a hero in all quarters.

In addition to Carlos Sainz/Michel Périn, Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz have – on two occasions so far - entered their names on the list of stage winners. Before the final trilogy of the Dakar Rally the South African-German duo is ranking third in the overall classification. Mark Miller and Ralph Pitchford in a further Race Touareg solidified their position as the overall runner-up, 27.31 minutes behind Sainz/Périn. A strong impression as well has been left by the fourth pairing in the cross-country rally prototype from Wolfsburg sporting Red Bull blue: Dieter Depping/Timo Gottschalk delivered convincing performances of top times too, but were extremely unfortunate on a number of occasions and are now ranking ninth overall, as the best German duo.

Race Touareg proves itself on roughest terrain

Quick gravel stretches, soft sand and huge dune fields, high camel grass and trial-like sections: On the way to Fiambalá, the Volkswagen Race Touareg has so far reliably mastered extremely demanding landscapes. At the Dakar Rally all kinds of different terrain are encountered each day, requiring the technicians to achieve the perfect compromise in terms of vehicle set-up and the drivers to swiftly adapt to the changing terrain.

"The frequent changes pose a real challenge to us, the drivers, as well as to the co-drivers. We were not accustomed to them from the previous ‘Dakar’ in this form,” says Giniel de Villiers, and Mark Miller adds, "The landscape is breathtaking, absolutely fantastic. During the first crossing of the Andes we briefly stopped on the liaison leg to enjoy this stunning view.”

And the remaining stages will continue to feature variety galore. Myriad forms of dunes including the ominous white dunes on Thursday on the way to La Rioja, followed by huge cactus landscapes on Friday and Saturday, and – through the legendary pampas – back to Buenos Aires where the participants will cross the finish ramp on Sunday (the 18th).

Coming up …

Thursday, 15 January: Fiambalá (RA) – La Rioja (RA). The twelfth leg features many branch-offs, and thus puts exacting demands on the drivers and co-drivers. Three days before the much-longed-for arrival at the finish the drive across various types of dunes, including the ominous white dunes, is on the agenda. In total, the leg will cover 518 kilometres, 253 of which are timed.

From the Volkswagen bivouac
Heroes of the marathon leg – Race Truck crew as mechanics

Mission "marathon leg” – at the finish of the eleventh "Dakar” day, in Fiambalá, the crews of the two Volkswagen team’s two Race Trucks would normally play an especially important part. As registered participants, they, in addition to the drivers and co-drivers of the Race Touareg vehicles themselves, are authorised to service the cross-country rally prototypes. On the evening of the marathon day, merely the change of the air filter and the four wheels was planned, as well as an in-depth inspection of the 280-hp diesel-powered vehicles. After the liaison stage in the direction of Fiambalá, the mechanics of the Race Trucks, Arnaud Libois, Dirk van Obbergen, Thorsten Goldberg, Jürgen Damen as well as the two Race Truck drivers, Tom de Leeuw and François Verbist, are now in for a less strenuous night – a welcome relief after the strains of the special stages completed so far.

Refreshment as a reward for success – ice cream for the mechanics in case of stage victory

As many as eight times Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen has treated the Volkswagen mechanics to ice cream at the Dakar Rally – as a special reward for stage wins. On the tenth leg of the off-road classic Nissen would have had to deliver on his promise in any event: He had promised Hummer driver Robby Gordon and his mechanics the same "prize” in case of their stage victory. At the finish, Race Touareg driver Carlos Sainz and Gordon were separated by merely 21 seconds.

900 litres of water per day – the supply of the Volkswagen bivouac

High heat in the bivouacs, strenuous physical work for drivers, co-drivers and technical crews: The Volkswagen squad consumes about 250 litres of drinking water per day at the Dakar Rally. In addition, there are the 250 litres used by the team’s own kitchen and the 400 litres which the four Race Touareg crews and the 80 team members split between themselves for daily personal hygiene. The only exception: On rest day the four diesel prototypes were each treated to 400 litres of water for extensive washing.

Source: Volkswagen Motorsport

Volkswagen continues running in front at "Dakar" with three cars

2009-01-15T05:45:00.000+10:30

Volkswagen has kept the upper hand with three cars leading the event, even on the extremely demanding tenth leg of the 2009 Dakar Rally.

Carlos Sainz/Michel Périn in the Race Touareg extended their advantage in the overall classification by another 7.39 minutes, to 27.31 minutes. On the loop around Copiapó in Chile, which contained a lot of camel grass and high dune fields with soft sand as well as stony and rough sections, the duo clinched its sixth stage victory with a narrow lead. After 470 kilometres through the Atacama desert merely 21 seconds separated the Volkswagen team from Robby Gordon/Andy Grider in the Hummer. For Sainz, who is just contesting his third "Dakar”, this marked as much as the 15th stage victory in the off-road classic.

Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford solidified their second place overall in the rally by setting the third-best time of the day despite a puncture. They reached the finish 7.39 minutes behind Sainz. Their team colleagues Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz drove the sixth-best time with an 18.15-minute gap on the loop that was shortened by about 200 kilometres versus the original planning due to the delayed start in the morning on account of fog. 20 kilometres before the finish they had gotten stuck in deep sand in a blind area near the top of a dune. In the overall classification, the South African-German pairing remains in third place, now ranking 41.13 minutes behind the front runners.

For the first time, Volkswagen’s outright advantage over their best rival has increased to over one hour: ranking fourth overall, Nani Roma/Lucas Cruz as the only remaining Mitsubishi team are trailing Carlos Sainz by as much as 1:13 hour. Dieter Depping/Timo Gottschalk in a further Volkswagen Touareg experienced a strange accident that set them back quite a bit. Behind the top of a dune, at the bottom of the next valley, they noticed their stranded compatriot Matthias Kahle but were not able to slow down their Race Touareg while running downhill in the sand and slid into the rear of the German’s Buggy. After digging themselves out of the sand and losing time in the process, both teams were able to continue the rally.

Coming up …

Wednesday, 14 January: Copiapó (RCH) – Fiambalá (RA). The originally planned eleventh leg involving the crossing of the Andes and the border from Chile to Argentina has been cancelled due to a prediction of inclement weather, and converted into a liaison stage.

New Scirocco for VW Cup UK is Revealed at Autosport International

2009-01-13T16:40:00.000+10:30

The new racing version of the Volkswagen Scirocco, which will make its UK track debut this season in the Volkswagen Racing Cup in association with Hankook, took its first public bow in Birmingham.

Unveiled at the Autosport International show at the NEC, the Scirocco will form the centrepiece of the championship's own stand.

It's the first time that the series has had a dedicated display area at Autosport International, and the move is a reflection of the championship's growing status as Britain's leading saloon championship for club drivers.

'We are very pleased to be unveiling the new Scirocco at the Autosport show,' said Volkswagen Racing UK Director Melissa Wright, 'not least because it is fully three months ahead of the start of the racing season. It means that there will be time for a good test and development programme so that the Scirocco can hit the ground running at round one.'

The Scirocco on display will be raced by Mike Kurton, with backing from plumbing services companies BSS and PTS. Build of a second Scirocco, for Liam Griffin, is currently underway at the Milton Keynes workshops of Volkswagen Racing UK. Both cars will be powered by the 2-litre turbo petrol engine raced successfully in the Golf GTI and are expected to pack a 220-240bhp punch.

The championship has unveiled its calendar for the coming season: all seven meetings will feature twin races and are on the supporting package for the prestigious British F3 and GT Championships. The entry books were opened on 1 January and Wright reports brisk interest.

The Volkswagen Racing Cup in association with Hankook is additionally supported by Augustus Martin, Castrol, Ceva Logistics, ECM Vehicle Delivery, Milltek Sport, Mondial Assistance, KW Automotive, Superchips, Turbo Dynamics, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles and Volkswagen Financial Services UK.

Volkswagen Racing Cup in association with Hankook - provisional dates
11-13 Apr Oulton Park
25/26 Apr Donington Park
30/31 May Rockingham
13/14 Jun Knockhill
4/5 Jul Snetterton
15/16 Aug Silverstone
19/20 Sep Brands Hatch

Source Volkswagen Racing UK

Volkswagen continues with triple "Dakar" lead

2009-01-13T16:32:00.000+10:30

Volkswagen celebrated its seventh stage victory on the ninth leg of the 2009 Dakar Rally, maintaining its overall lead with stage winners Carlos Sainz/Michel Périn, ahead of two further Race Touareg vehicles.

The 537-kilometre leg from La Serena to Copiapó in Chile demanded concentrated performance of the navigators, particularly during the starting phase, and put a severe physical strain on the crews due to long off-road stretches with hard impacts and stony sections. At first, Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford looked like the stage winners for a long time. However, the American/South African duo lost about five minutes just before the finish because of a tyre change, but improved by one position in the overall classification. Miller/Pitchford took second place from their team colleagues Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz, who lost 12.01 minutes on the ninth competition day due to a navigation error.

Carlos Sainz, who had been leading the cross-country classic for three days from the second leg onwards, then being replaced at the top for two days, has been running in front in the overall classification again since last Friday. After five stage victories, his lead over Miller now amounts to almost 20 minutes. De Villiers/von Zitzewitz follow with a three-minute gap in third place. Dieter Depping/Timo Gottschalk in the fourth 280-hp Race Touareg lost 1:48 hours and dropped from eighth to tenth place overall.

Coming up …

Tuesday, 13 January: Copiapó (RCH) – Copiapó (RCH). The special stage of the tenth leg is the longest one of the 2009 Dakar Rally. In view of long dune stretches across several hundred kilometres in the Atacama desert, it is also considered the toughest one. Extreme heat is another technical challenge making the 670 timed kilometres (690 total) around Copiapó a real acid test.

Quotes after leg 9
Kris Nissen (Volkswagen Motorsport Director)
"Today I’ve got to pay a huge compliment to our co-drivers Michel Périn and Ralph Pitchford. This leg was extremely demanding in terms of navigation. Our team did a great job across the board. Carlos Sainz further extended his advantage and we defended our one-two-three lead in the overall classification. The bottom line is that we’re very satisfied – if we continue working at the same level of consistency and concentration as before, our first ‘Dakar’ victory will be possible.”

#301 – Carlos Sainz (E), 1st place leg / 1st place overall
"This was a very tough and demanding leg which, in the beginning, particularly tested the navigation skills of my co-driver Michel Périn – he really did a fantastic job. On the driving side, lots of off-road passages, hard shocks and stones galore made life difficult for us. But we handled these challenges well. The next few days will remain rough – that’s why our main goal is to get through without any problems. Then we’ll see what results this will produce.”

#305 – Giniel de Villiers (ZA), 5th place leg / 3rd place overall
"We neither had any punctures nor any other problems – as far as the technology goes, we got through perfectly. Unfortunately, though, we completely got lost on two occasions. The first time, the wrong route we’d taken even matched the roadbook descriptions quite well; that’s why we noticed that we were lost only after five kilometres. That definitely cost us 15 minutes. But there are still some tough days ahead on which a lot can happen.”

#307 – Dieter Depping (D), 22nd place leg / 10th place overall
"At the beginning, we turned into a wrong canyon. After finding our way out again, we wanted to catch up and put the pedal to the metal. 120 kilometres before the finish we slipped off the track, hit a rock, bent two rear wishbones and had to replace both of them. That’s why we dropped to tenth place.”

#308 – Mark Miller (USA), 2nd place leg / 2nd place overall
"Particularly the beginning of this extremely difficult leg went very well for my co-driver Ralph Pitchford and me. Ralph did a perfect job of navigating, so we caught up with my team-mate Carlos Sainz after only 60 kilometres. We stayed close to his dust and expected to be following him all the way to the finish. But Carlos and Michel made a small navigation mistake – so we passed them. Unfortunately, a slow puncture and the resulting tyre change later prevented my first stage victory at the ‘Dakar’. But that’s not so important. The main thing is that in the end a ‘blue vehicle’ will be the overall front runner.”

From the Volkswagen bivouac
Nazan Eckes takes acid test – RTL presenter follows the "Dakar” tracks

RTL TV presenter Nazan Eckes is truly subjecting herself to an acid test during the second rally week of the "Dakar”. For the "Punkt 12” show she covers special aspects of this motorsport cross-country marathon. The first programme item from "behind the scenes”: a ride in the Volkswagen Race Touareg with Dieter Depping during which Nazan Eckes was put to the test as a co-driver – albeit outside the rally programme during a test drive of the 280-hp cross-country rally prototype on rest day. The roughly nine-minute films will be aired on 15 and 16 January between 12:00 and 14:00 hrs on the "Punkt 12” show on RTL TV, followed by a 25-minute documentary entitled "Die Rallye Dakar 2009 – Ankommen ist alles” on 18 January at 23:50 hrs.

The desert adventure – Volkswagen Race Truck #556 back in the race

Thanks to two neutralised special stages after the rest day the Race Truck of the Volkswagen team with the Belgian trio Tom de Leeuw, Dirk van Obbergen and Arnaud Libois resumed the Dakar Rally. After the fast assistance vehicle had tipped to the side on the fifth leg from Neuquén to San Rafaël in a dune field the crew was freed from its predicament after spending two lonely days and nights in the desert, repaired the MAN truck and directly drove across the Andes to Valparaíso in Chile. There, the stewards, in addition to granting the squad a starting permission for leg eight to La Serena, imposed a hefty time penalty of 200 hours. Nevertheless, the Volkswagen team sighed with relief: The Race Trucks, two of which continue to run in the race, are ready to render valuable assistance on the marathon leg from Copiapó via Fiambalá to La Rioja. According to the rules, night-time servicing of the four Race Touareg vehicles in Fiambalá may only be performed by registered participants.

A bit of 007 flair – Race Touareg enters James Bond territory

On the tenth leg of the Dakar Rally the crews of the four Race Touareg cars will be exploring genuine James Bond territory. On the loop around Copiapó – considered the pinnacle of all the Dakar Rally’s legs – they will be crossing the extremely dry Atacama desert. The world-famous observatory on the "Cerro Paranal” mountain in Chile and the surrounding area, which is only about 200 kilometres away from the leg, was the location where the latest 007 film "Quantum of Solace” was shot in 2008.

Source Volkswagen Motorsport

NAIAS 2009: Concept BlueSport World Premiere

2009-01-12T17:28:00.000+10:30

World premiere of the Volkswagen Concept BlueSport:
Sports car offers the most driving fun with the least fuel

140 mph fast Concept BlueSport has exceptional 42 mph fuel economy
Made in Germany – Concept car is a reflection of modern carmaking

Wolfsburg / Detroit, 11 January 2009 - Volkswagen is starting the new year by presenting an automotive dream – an affordable, uncommonly economical and highly agile mid-engine roadster. Its name: Concept BlueSport. Status: concept. Dynamics: pure. Fuel consumption: an average of 55 mpg / 4,3 l/100 km; less than any other sports car. Positioning: genuine, low-emissions roadster (113 g/km CO2) that makes every kilometer, every mile a driving experience. World premiere: Detroit, Michigan, on January 11, 2009.

Comeback of compact agility

Behind the two sport seats of the 3.99 meter long Concept BlueSport (axle load distribution: 45:55) is an exclusively charged TDI or TSI engine that delivers dynamics – these are high-tech engines that consume little but put out a lot. In the case of the Concept BlueSport version now being presented in the USA it is a 132 kW / 180 PS strong Clean Diesel (TDI) with common rail injection and downstream NOx storage catalytic converter. At a low 1,750 rpm – i.e. right from the engine speed ‘cellar’ – the 2.0 liter turbo engine develops its maximum torque of 350 Newton-meters. That matches the power response of an approx. 300 PS strong six-cylinder gasoline engine! A 6-speed dual clutch transmission – the most economical and agile transmission system in the world – transfers this power to the rear wheels. It is shifted either automatically or via shift paddles on the steering wheel. In just 6.2 seconds the sports car is moving at a speed of 60 mph (0-100 km/h: 6,6 seconds); its top speed is 140 mph (226 km/h).

These are the key parameters of a new and at the same time classic European sports car philosophy. The Concept BlueSport is evolving into a car that is a lot of fun to drive and at the same time makes an unmistakable statement in terms of sustainability. The fact is: if the Concept BlueSport were to go into production it could herald in a renaissance of the compact roadster. Another fact: this car handles just as well in the urban environment of metropolises as it does on very curvy country roads and long expressway routes.

Concept without compromises

Volkswagen defined just two objectives in the car’s development: maximum driving fun and minimal fuel consumption. And so a mid-engine sports car was implemented that makes no compromises, that aims at low weight and maximum agility right from the start. Although it is best in its class when it comes to body rigidity, the Concept BlueSport weighs in at less than 1,200 athletic kilograms. The results: performance that is more than impressive for every life situation, in addition to the cited fuel economy and emissions advantages. Low weight was attained by consistent application of lightweight construction methods (among other things, the soft top – at 27 kilograms – is the lightest in its class, and the hoods are made of aluminum), and by a body layout with crisp and compact dimensions.

Despite all of the sports car fascination included on board, it still offers a respectable level of everyday utility. In the cargo area under the front hood, for example, the Concept BlueSport can stow 112 liters of luggage; its counterpart in the rear can handle an additional 70 liters of cargo volume. Altogether that makes 182 liters – enough for working documents or an extended weekend trip for two. Also extended, by the way, are the distances between any two fuel fillups. With a fuel tank volume of 50 liters and the noted fuel economy of 42 mpg (consumption of 4.3 liters per 100 kilometers), the theoretical range is greater than 710 miles (1,150 kilometers).

Making a positive impact on the car’s range, fuel economy and emissions are two technologies that could become more and more commonplace in the future and are part of the so-called Eco mode on the Concept BlueSport: an automatic start-stop system and braking energy regeneration. The place where automatic start-stop shines is in city traffic. When the Concept BlueSport stops at a red traffic light, for example, it automatically shuts off its engine. As soon as the light turns green again, just tapping on the gas pedal is enough to start the engine lightning fast. Its entire operation is absolutely intuitive and saves up to 0.2 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers in the city. Furthermore, primarily when the Concept BlueSport is braked, energy is generated by the alternator (regeneration), which relieves the engine and further improves fuel economy.

Design without gimmickry

The Concept BlueSport – painted in Flex Silver painted and sporting an orange colored fabric roof – was designed by the team led by Klaus Bischoff (Director of Design for the Volkswagen Brand) and Thomas Ingenlath (Director of the Design Center in Potsdam). "The design of the Concept BlueSport," says Klaus Bischoff, "represents a perfect synthesis of technology and aesthetics. Its form is very clear and is reduced to essentials; the car body itself has a lean and linear structure." Thomas Ingenlath adds: "Emanating powerfully from this car body are the circular wheel housings, flared out in three dimensions as in a sculture. The radial surfaces, edges and blending of forms emphasize the wheels and thereby the agility of the BlueSport concept car. The lateral air intakes are identifying features of the mid-engine layout, their volume-reducing design offers visualization of the car’s sporty low weight."

Powerful proportions

The proportions of the Concept BlueSport give it an exceptionally powerful and impressive appearance. Besides its low height of 1.26 meters, the car’s image is shaped by the fact that the wheelbase (2.43 meters) appears large compared to the car’s overall length of about four meters, and the sumptuous track widths that are large relative to the car’s width (1.75 meters). In front, the sports car exhibits a track of 1.49 meters; in the rear it is 1.52 meters.

In the sum total of its dimensions, it is clear, first of all, that the powerfully styled body of the Concept BlueSport is significantly shorter and flatter than that of the Scirocco already launched in Europe, yet it is longer and a lot wider than the current Polo, for example. And with precisely these proportions, the roadster makes an especially powerful impression on its custom designed 19 inch alloy spoke wheels.

Front end design

At its front, the Concept BlueSport is characterized by a new Volkswagen design language introduced for the first time on the Scirocco and the new Golf. It is based on a ‘design DNA’ that will leave its mark on all new Volkswagens. This design DNA was developed by Walter de Silva (Director of Design for the Volkswagen Group), Flavio Manzoni (Director of Creative Design for Volkswagen AG) and Klaus Bischoff. On the one hand, it preserves historical elements, but on the other it represents a re-interpretation of Volkswagen design. Familiar from the Golf and Scirocco are the dominant dual cross beams that are formed by the narrow radiator grille and the painted bumper. In the lower area, large air inlets in black extend across the entire vehicle width, and integrated in them – under translucent, dark-tinted plastic covers – are the LED flashers.

Meanwhile, the car’s interpretation of individual features shows just how broad the range of vehicles is, in which these style elements can be implemented. Take the headlights and taillights, for example: Although the Concept BlueSport with its bi-xenon headlights and LED taillights is obviously a Volkswagen of contemporary times, it is still extremely independent. The roadster look is evident in details such as the daytime running lights designed as a narrow, C-shaped light strip (in the main headlamp housing) or – in the style of high-performance sports cars – the distinct outward flare of the fenders whose forms are charged with energy.

Thomas Ingenlath, lead project designer for the BlueSport concept car, sums it up this way: "The concept car looks into the viewer’s eyes with a powerful, masterful look; everything is clear and precise. Standing here is an agile athlete who has no need to display an aggressive attitude."

We have taken a systematic approach to everything here, emphasizes Flavio Manzoni: "Unique, simple, universal – that is the authentic spirit of Volkswagen: clear design features in a complex world – this is the philosophy currently guiding Volkswagen design. These are cars like the Up! and Space Up! concept cars or the Scirocco and Golf, which reflect the concept of aesthetic clarity without compromise. And we are now carrying this forward with the Concept BlueSport."

Rear end

The rear end is distinctive at first glance. Lines emanating from the contour of the rear fender here frame a shoulder section that would be hard to imagine any greater dynamism or clarity. In the center, there is a large strip painted in car color, and in the upper section a narrow black line that separates the bumper from the engine or trunk hood. Prominent on this line, which also joins the taillights, is the VW logo. The shapes of the taillights themselves were intentionally designed to be similar to those of the headlights. Inside, the lights both have a C-shaped LED component that radiates far and extremely brightly into the night with each brake actuation. The third brake light was integrated in the rear trunk lid, above the VW logo.

In the lower section, a horizontal surface in black is the defining visual element; the tailpipes are located at its outer edges – right next to the contour of the fender lines. The end of the bumper – together with the lateral fender and wheel housing panels – forms a virtual surface painted in car color. At its center the bumper exhibits an area that is aerodynamically designed as a diffuser.

Side profile

On its sides, once again it is the circular-shape of the wheel housings and outer fender edges – typical of Volkswagen – that are part of the clear, precise, powerful and highly aesthetic line-work. In addition, the extremely short overhangs define the car’s side profile styling. Moreover, the ten-spoke alloy wheels with tires in the sizes 235/35 ZR19 (front) and 245/35 ZR19 (rear) – that completely fill out the large wheel housings – create a look that would otherwise only be offered in the realm of super sports cars.

Interior

The interior of a sports car should fit as though it were tailor-made. Everything must be ideally set up to reach, operate, control, and must exhibit a high level of aesthetics. This is precisely what Volkswagen has done with the Concept BlueSport. Klaus Bischoff: "The interior shows finesse in details and conveys a high level of technological fascination. The special flair of the interior expresses itself in the architectonic purity of its components."

Climb in: Immediately eye-catching is the touchscreen – an intuitively operated human-machine interface in the style of its counterpart in the Volkswagen Up! concept car. It is located right at the imaginary transmission tunnel. All information and entertainment functions are controlled from the touchscreen. Right in front of it – on the level where a gearshift lever would be – there is now a multifunctional steering wheel that is used to intuitively operate the dual clutch transmission.

Above the touchscreen are the three large control dials for the dual-zone automatic climate control system. They are located on a cockpit section traversed by vertical slats. These slats simultaneously serve as both air vents and style features. When the control dials of the automatic climate control system are turned to the left, in the "colder" direction, the control unit’s display becomes increasingly more blue; when higher temperatures are set the display turns "reddish".

Visually similar to the climate controls is the light switch located to the left of the steering wheel. In terms of color, the orange of the convertible top is repeated in the basic illumination of the cockpit switches. The designers also redesigned the large round instruments and the multifunctional steering wheel. It is equipped with keys for controlling the audio system, telephone, on-board computer and dual clutch transmission (DSG).

Perfectly adapted to the interior are the lightweight, leather-upholstered sport seats with their one-piece seatbacks. Behind the integrated head restraints with embossed VW logo is the Concept BlueSport’s roll bar. Directly behind this is the opened convertible top; the soft top is actuated manually here. Thanks to a classic Z-fold and low top weight, this can be done in a matter of seconds – sometimes less is more.

Technical data of the Volkswagen Concept BlueSport

Body / Chassis
Length: 3,990 mm
Width: 1,745 mm
Height: 1,260 mm
Track, front: 1,490 mm
Track, rear: 1,520 mm
Front suspension: McPherson suspension
Rear suspension: Multi-link system

Engine
Configuration: 4 cylinder TDI, 2.0 liter displacement
Max. power at engine speed: 132 kW / 180 PS at 4,200 rpm
Max. torque at engine speed: 350 Nm at 1,750 rpm

Drivetrain / Wheels
Transmission: 6-speed direct shift
Final drive: Rear-wheel drive
Tyres, front: 235/35 ZR19
Tyres, rear: 245/35 ZR19

Performance / Economy
0-100 km/h: 6.6 seconds
0-60 mph: 6.2 seconds
V/max: 140 mph / 226 km/h
Fuel consumption: (Euro 6) 4.3 liter/100 km / 55 mpg
CO2 emissions* 113 g/km
* in Eco mode: Start-stop & regeneration

Colors
Exterior paint: Flex silver
Convertible top: Orange

Volkswagen starts perfectly to second half of Dakar Rally

2009-01-12T17:27:00.000+10:30

Volkswagen started the second week of the Dakar Rally exactly the way the first half on Friday before the rest day had ended: by securing a triple stage win and maintaining its previous one-two-three lead.

The day’s best result was clinched yet again by Carlos Sainz/Michel Périn, who scored a fourth stage victory in the Race Touareg, thus further extending their overall lead.

On the eighth leg from Valparaíso to La Serena in Chile, which put the concentration and fitness of the drivers and co-drivers to the test on gravel tracks, like those featured in sprint rallies, and on long serpentine sections, the German Volkswagen duo Dieter Depping/Timo Gottschalk reached the destination in second position with a 4.02-minute gap to Sainz/Périn. Another ten seconds later, Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford in the third of the Race Touareg vehicles sporting Red Bull blue followed in third place.

In fifth place, Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz finished the eighth special stage but lost 10.48 minutes on the 652-kilometre leg in the dust of their rivals and due to a slow puncture. In the overall classification de Villiers is now trailing his Spanish team-mate Sainz by 10.57 minutes. Miller, with an 18.05-minute gap, continues ranking in third position. Depping advanced to eighth overall, but is almost five hours behind.

Volkswagen’s best immediate rival, Mitsubishi driver Nani Roma, in fourth place overall dropped by a further 4.15 minutes to a 33.31-minute gap to Sainz.

Coming up …

Monday, 12 January: La Serena (RCH) – Copiapó (RCH). The 537-kilometre ninth leg forms the first part of a trilogy of acid tests: The contenders will have their first encounter with the Atacama desert, which is known as the world’s most arid region. Rocky passages and prolonged dune stretches at the end of the 449-kilometre special stage are part of the constantly changing terrain as well.

Brief visit to the Volkswagen bivouac: Chile’s President Michelle Bachelet

The Volkswagen team received a high-ranking visitor on the Dakar Rally’s rest day: Chile’s President Michelle Bachelet paid a visit to the service camp of the motorsport cross-country marathon and took a look at the Volkswagen bivouac as well.

The President, who has been in office since March 2006 and spent some time studying in Germany, received first-hand information from Carlos Sainz and Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen. The government of Chile actively supports the Dakar Rally in the area of organisation and personnel while the National Sports Institute has assumed responsibility for coordinating all services.

Quotes after leg 8

Kris Nissen (Volkswagen Motorsport Director)
"For Volkswagen, today’s leg marked a positive beginning of the second ‘Dakar’ week. After the so-called rest day all four Race Touareg vehicles were running perfectly as usual. Inspecting and working on numerous components on rest day always harbours the risk of something slipping. But the entire squad did a superb job – this is also reflected by our result of having four cars among the top five. Now, the really tough days are coming up. Tonight, we’ll get together to work out a good strategy for Monday. In view of today’s outcome and the resulting early starting positions, our starting base couldn’t be any better.”

#301 – Carlos Sainz (E), 1st place leg / 1st place overall
"These types of rally tracks suit me very well and I really enjoyed the day – even though I did work up a sweat with all that gravel, the many slippery stretches and countless bends. Today called for a lot of work with the steering wheel. A perfectly prepared car that gave me a lot of confidence made the whole thing quite a bit easier.”

#305 – Giniel de Villiers (ZA), 5th place leg / 2nd place overall
"Today had positive as well as less positive aspects. Of course at this stage of the rally each arrival at the finish is important and the good news is that we had no technical problems whatsoever, the car is running the way it should be in every respect. Unfortunately, I lost a bit of time to Carlos today because soon after the special stage started I caught Guerlain Chicherit in the BMW and Robby Gordon in the Hummer. For some 100 kilometres, I wasn’t able to pass them – the track was too narrow and, unfortunately, the activation of the Sentinel produced no response by the preceding contenders. In addition, we had a slow puncture, just before the end of the special. But there’s no doubt in my mind that our stages are still coming up.”

#307 – Dieter Depping (D), 2nd place leg / 8th place overall
"It’s been a long time since I turned the steering wheel as much as I did today. The track today tended to be more typical of a sprint rally – with lots of gravel and plenty of bends. That really suits me well but after 200 kilometres I had to muster all my concentration to keep from making mistakes. On the physical side, today was extremely trying, so I was very happy about having air conditioning on board.”

#308 – Mark Miller (USA), 3rd place leg / 3rd place overall
"That was a real tap dancing act today. Feet, arms – we constantly had to move on these gravel stretches. In addition, the sections were extremely narrow and the terrain kept changing. So, today the adaptability of the driver was essential. But Ralph was put to the test in navigation as well with a few tricky places. Today our hard work in the gym prior to the rally definitely paid off.”

Volkswagen at NAIAS 2009

2009-01-12T06:01:00.000+10:30

Touareg Lux Limited

-Touareg V6 TDI drastically reduces fuel costs with high-tech engine
-Touareg “Lux Limited” has an exclusive interior and upgraded exterior
-Clean diesels from Volkswagen will be sold in all 50 states of the USA
-Jetta and Touareg take the lead in VW Diesel Offensive in the USA

Wolfsburg / Detroit, 11 January 2009 - Volkswagen is presenting an innovative lineup of extremely economical and low-emissions drive technologies at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit (NAIAS). Featured there from January 11 to 25 are the German carmaker’s Clean Diesel engines (TDI). Many experts consider these diesel engines to be the most advanced of our times. The reasons could not be clearer: high fuel efficiency and extremely low emissions combined with maximum performance. It is precisely this formula that has already won over millions of car drivers in Europe and a growing number of people in America.

It is in this context that Volkswagen is presenting the new Touareg V6 TDI in Detroit with its powerful 165 kW / 225 PS Clean Diesel. The high-tech engine is taking the stage with a city fuel economy of 18 mpg. On the highway it even attains 25 mpg. The Touareg V6 TDI is defining a completely new generation of extremely economical and low emissions SUVs. Since the Touareg V6 TDI is equipped with the most advanced catalytic converter system in the world, it impressively fulfills the BIN5 emissions standard, and with it the legal requirements of all fifty states in the USA. In parallel, the V6 TDI will satisfy the highest expectations in dynamic response and comfort: the turbocharged V6 TDI is just about as quiet as a gasoline engine, but it is far more powerful. Starting at a low 1,750 rpm – i.e. from the ‘cellar’ of engine speed – it already develops its empowering maximum torque of 550 Newton-meters.

Right at the launch of the new Clean Diesel SUV, Volkswagen is also presenting a world premiere of the special "Lux Limited" edition of the Touareg. Identifying features: an upgraded exterior with exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels and two-tone leather interior designed especially for the Touareg "Lux Limited". The series – limited to 1,940 units – may be ordered with one of the Cricket leather color combinations "Latte Macchiato / St. Tropez White" or "Anthracite / St. Tropez White". Two gasoline engines (V6 FSI, V8 FSI) and the new V6 TDI (Clean Diesel) will be offered on the Touareg "Lux Limited".

Since August, the Jetta TDI and Jetta SportWagen TDI have been marketed as Clean Diesels in the USA. They too are taking the stage at the NAIAS 2009. Their 103 kW / 140 PS strong four-cylinder turbo-diesel is so fuel efficient (30 mpg city / 41 mpg highway / manual transmission) and clean that a 1,300 dollar tax credit is being offered on these models. That is because from the very first day they are driven, cars like the Jetta TDI make a contribution toward drastically reducing emissions. Compared to gasoline engines of similar power, the fuel efficiency of the Jetta TDI and Jetta SportWagen TDI is up to 35 percent better! That helps the environment. Immediately. All across America.

Kris Nissen: "We need to overcome the 'Dakar' itself first"

2009-01-11T06:52:00.000+10:30

Volkswagen will start the second week of the Dakar Rally in Argentina and Chile in the top three positions on the leader board.

After nearly 24 hours of effective driving time, there are just nine seconds between the current leaders Carlos Sainz/Michel Périn (E/F) and their Volkswagen team colleagues Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz (ZA/D). The third team driving a Race Touareg with a 280 hp TDI diesel engine, Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford (USA/ZA), is then just over 13 minutes behind. After the only rest day on this legendary cross-country rally, the fourth Volkswagen pair Dieter Depping/Timo Gottschalk (D/D) will start the first of the next seven legs in ninth place. The ‘Dakar’ finishes where it started, in the Argentinian capital Buenos Aires next Saturday (17 January). Volkswagen can look back on a successful first half of the "Dakar”, with five out of a possible seven leg victories under its belt and having had a Race Touareg in the overall lead on five days.

On its South American premiere in Argentina and Chile, the Dakar Rally is cementing its reputation as the toughest rally in the world of motorsport. On their way from Buenos Aires via Santa Rosa, Puerto Madryn, Jacobacci, Neuquén, San Rafael and Mendoza (all in Argentina) to the Chilean coastal resort of Valparaíso, the 500 participants have had to negotiate everything from fast stretches of gravel tracks to scrubland, rocky and trial-like terrain, high-speed sections on sand and huge dune landscapes. Throughout, the navigating co-pilots faced plenty of switches between surfaced, marked roads and off-road stretches – something which required a great deal of skill on the part of the drivers and co-pilots again and again each day. The "Dakar” has also experienced an unprecedented following so far, with many enthusiastic fans lining the route each day.

The only rest day on this year’s rally will give the 80-strong Volkswagen team an opportunity to catch their breath, but there will be little time for resting. The engineers and mechanics will spend the day thoroughly inspecting the four Race Touareg vehicles, that sport a striking blue Red Bull design, while the drivers and co-pilots will be busy talking to all the journalists and guests. And soon after midday, the co-drivers will be able to start to plan the eighth leg, when they are given the next roadbook.

The Volkswagen team will face some tough challenges in the second week of the Dakar Rally. The first few stages head north along Chile’s Pacific coast, from Valparaíso to La Serena and Copiápo. The core of the 30th "Dakar” will then be a circuit around Copiapó and through the extremely dry Atacama Desert followed by the cross-country journey to La Rioja via Fiambalá. After crossing the Andes back into Argentina, the participants themselves will have to service their vehicles in Fiambalá, without any assistance. From La Rioja, the route will take the drivers back to the city of Cordoba and then on to Buenos Aires, where, after approximately 9,500 kilometres and 14 tough stages, the rally finishing line awaits.

Quotes from the bivouac
Kris Nissen (Volkswagen Motorsport Director)
"At the halfway point of the ‘Dakar’, we can look back on a successful first week of rallying. The whole team has done an excellent job and the Race Touareg has demonstrated that it is a fast and reliable vehicle. There were three or four very demanding days in the first week, but the next seven stages will be even tougher. We are on course for success, but we nevertheless need to remain focused and not make any mistakes if we want to achieve our objective of winning the ‘Dakar’. And to do that, we need to overcome the rally itself first, as it is and will continue to be our toughest adversary. We can already safely say that this is the hardest Dakar Rally ever.”

#301 – Carlos Sainz (E), 1st place overall
"Even before we have tackled the more demanding half of the Dakar Rally coming up next week, it’s safe to say that this ‘Dakar’ is really very tough. At the end of the first extremely challenging week, there is next to nothing between me and my team colleague Giniel de Villiers. But the most important thing is that Volkswagen is in a great position ahead of the remaining seven legs. We now have to make sure that we remain cautious and focused, because, as I have said before, the next legs are bound to be tougher than the legs so far. I predicted there would be a lot of enthusiasm for the ‘Dakar’ in South America before we got here, but to see the huge numbers of excited fans here is absolutely fantastic.”

#301 – Michel Périn (F), co-pilot
"With just nine seconds separating first and second place, it’s almost as if the Dakar Rally won’t be starting until after the rest day. But we have actually been through a very tough week already, which certainly entailed some ups and downs for me and Carlos. And that’s exactly what makes the ‘Dakar’ so special. The organisers are talking about a trilogy of even tougher stages soon after the rest day – but if you ask me, it’s more like four consecutive days that are going to ratchet up the challenge of this rally.”

#305 – Giniel de Villiers (ZA), 2nd place overall
"The first week of the ‘Dakar’ goes to show that it’s not over until you have actually crossed the finishing line. This goes for the first few stages of the rally, and especially for legs four, five, six and seven. The last day before the rest day in particular presented us with a few typical ‘Dakar’ surprises. You can have six successful days in a row, only for everything to go to pot on day seven. We’ve come a long way, but nothing has definitively been won yet – and next week is going to be extremely hard.”

#305 – Dirk von Zitzewitz (D), co-pilot
"The organisers A.S.O. have done a great job and have put together a rally here in South America that is quite rightly called the ‘Dakar’. It really is a tough one, as shown by the high number of withdrawals so far. Not to mention the high level of sporting skill involved in this year’s rally – even the smallest of mistakes can mean it’s all over. With this in mind, we need to remain focused and continue to be careful. But I am optimistic, as I think our strengths lie in the second week of the rally anyway.”

#307 – Dieter Depping (D), 8th place overall
"It’s been a week of highs, but also of a few setbacks for us. Unfortunately, a few small technical hitches caused some big problems and held me up for a few hours. But if you look at the rate of withdrawals in the first few days, it’s clear to see that Volkswagen has come up with a reliable car with the Race Touareg, as all four vehicles that started are still in the running. And taking the seven tough legs so far into account, that’s more than positive.”

#307 – Timo Gottschalk (D), co-pilot
"I’ve been really impressed by how enthusiastic the spectators appear to be about this sporting discipline. There are hundreds of thousands of people lining the streets and cheering when we reach each day’s destination. We don’t even need the roadbook for the last few kilometres up to the bivouac, because the fans show us the way. This level of excitement is catching and it encourages us to do even better on the special stages. Dieter and I have had to deal with a few setbacks, unfortunately. But perhaps we’ll be a lot luckier in the second week of the ‘Dakar’.”

#308 – Mark Miller (USA), 3rd place overall
"I had a simple strategy for the first week of the ‘Dakar’ – every day, I slowly and cautiously worked my way up to the limit and to the right speed. And that’s exactly what I intend to do on the last seven legs too: remain calm, controlled and focused. I’m more than happy with what we have achieved so far. Even though we have already passed a real test of our endurance in the first week, the worst is yet to come. But the first week has shown that our car is tough enough.”

#308 – Ralph Pitchford (ZA), co-pilot
"We’ve come through an extremely challenging rally week. The ‘Dakar’ kicked off with three relatively tame legs, but things started to get tougher and tougher from day four onwards. Thankfully, we now have a rest day before we tackle the even more demanding second week. But arriving at the bivouac each day more than makes up for all the hard work, as we are warmly welcomed by thousands of thrilled spectators every day. There’s no doubt about it – bringing the ‘Dakar’ to South America was an excellent idea.”

Source Volkswagen Motorsport

Volkswagen leads with three cars at halfway point

2009-01-10T07:45:00.000+10:30

olkswagen leads the Dakar Rally with three Race Touareg cars, ahead of Saturday’s rest day and after seven of the 14 legs.

Carlos Sainz/Michel Périn took over at the top on the seventh leg of the rally from Mendoza in Argentina to the Chilean city of Valparaíso. The former front-runners and Volkswagen team colleagues, Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz, trail them by just nine seconds. Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford, driving a third Race Touareg with a 280 hp TDI diesel engine, are now third overall.

Carlos Sainz achieved his third leg victory on today’s difficult leg, which included the first Andes crossing of this first "Dakar” to be held in South America, thus placing him back at the top of the leader board. The day’s special stage was shortened from 419 to 243 kilometres due to inclement weather and rainfall overnight resulted in some treacherous driving conditions. Mark Miller is celebrating a double victory, having posted the second fastest time of the day and thus having given his best performance so far in this year’s legendary "Dakar”, which has been a tough one right from the start.

Giniel de Villiers and Dirk von Zitzewitz ceded their lead today, after losing time due to a puncture and visibility problems on today’s muddy route, and were the sixth team to cross the finishing line. Dieter Depping/Timo Gottschalk, who lost a lot of time in the fourth Race Touareg yesterday, made good ground today to take twelfth place, moving them up in the overall rankings to ninth.

Volkswagen’s appraisal after seven legs: Volkswagen can lay claim to five leg victories and five days of leading the rally, and now dominates the event ahead of Mitsubishi, who have remained unbeaten in the "Dakar” since 2001. The second half of this desert classic will get under way on Sunday, after Saturday’s rest day which will primarily serve as an opportunity to thoroughly service the rally vehicles. Seven legs now remain, covering a total distance of 4,622 kilometres.

Coming up …

Saturday, 10 January: Rest day, Valparaíso (RCH). The rally vehicles won’t be going anywhere on the eighth day of the "Dakar”. But the sole rest day during the toughest rally in the world will only mean a welcome break for the drivers and co-pilots at best, as the mechanics will be giving the race vehicles a thorough going-over in the Chilean port of Valparaíso. Meanwhile, the racers can lap up the attention of the media spotlight.

Quotes after leg 7
Kris Nissen (Volkswagen Motorsport Director)
"We have every reason to be happy with the first week of the rally. The Race Touareg is fast and reliable. Volkswagen is first, second and third overall, and we still have all four cars in the running. That’s a good provisional appraisal. But that’s all it is, because we know there are some really tough legs up ahead. Most of all, we need to remain completely focused. We can’t afford to let up – but so far, we are still on course.”

#301 – Carlos Sainz (E), 1st place leg / 1st place overall
"The Race Touareg performed perfectly in very difficult conditions and we are now back in the lead again. Today’s route was very fast, but the ground was very muddy because of the rain last night. The tracks were also full of potholes. Today was pretty tricky, so the outcome is all the more satisfying.”

#305 – Giniel de Villiers (ZA), 6th place leg / 2nd place overall
"We fell back because of some minor things today, unfortunately, and we’re now nine seconds short of the lead. First of all, we had to change a tyre. And then, at some point, there was no more water in the windscreen wiper tank. The wiper had to clear the mud from the windscreen without any water and eventually packed up, leaving us to navigate our way to the finishing line with very poor visibility.”

#307 – Dieter Depping (D), 12th place leg / 9th place overall
"The technicians and mechanics did an excellent job overnight, providing Timo (Gottschalk) and me with a perfect Race Touareg again, in spite of yesterday’s technical woes. So thanks to everyone for that. The whole team is working together fantastically. It was very hard having to start so far back today and having to overtake on such narrow tracks. But we managed to pass dozens of cars nonetheless.”

#308 – Mark Miller (USA), 2nd place leg / 3rd place overall
"This Dakar Rally is unbelievably demanding and is certainly living up to its reputation. The combination of rain and the fine fesh-fesh sand made it like driving on ice and this rally is really stretching us drivers. The Race Touareg ran like a dream in these conditions yet again. And the interim results for Volkswagen are just fantastic.”

Three questions for Fabrice van Ertvelde, Giniel de Villiers' race engineer

As Giniel de Villiers’ race engineer, you are responsible for the technical servicing of his Race Touareg. What has been the most positive thing you have learned in the first week of this "Dakar”?
"It’s great to see the daily results and to see that we have put together a great vehicle, a car that can take us to the top of the Dakar Rally. It was also great to see how Giniel and Dirk returned their cars to us in mint condition after the first six legs. They are really taking care of their vehicle and are therefore also taking care of their mechanics.”

Giniel de Villiers has got off to a good start in the "Dakar”. Does this instil the service crew and the engineers with greater confidence? Or perhaps motivate them?
"It’s not so much a confidence boost, but it definitely does motivate us. When the vehicle you’re responsible for wins legs and leads in the rally overall, it gives everyone who works on it quite a motivational boost. Everyone knows that concentration is a hugely important asset. But all the crew members can focus more easily when their hard work bears fruit from a competitive point of view.”

The Dakar Rally is showing its meaner side. As a technician, can you tell what the vehicles have been through at the end of a leg simply by looking at them?
"It’s pretty normal for the cars to come in with a few scratches in the paintwork and some vegetation stuck in the radiator. But other than that, there wasn’t a single unusual or serious technical problem with Giniel’s car on the first six legs. This is partly down to his prudent driving style, but also has something to do with the extremely high failure rates when you look at the other teams around the Volkswagen service camp. We are getting the right leg results, so the Race Touareg is obviously a fast and reliable vehicle. And the good condition it’s in after the legs proves that it’s also a very tough cookie.”

Source Volkswagen Motorsport

Volkswagen in first, second and third place in the "Dakar"

2009-01-09T13:14:00.000+10:30

Following a turbulent sixth leg, Volkswagen now leads the Dakar Rally with three of its Race Touareg cars.

In the overall rankings, Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz are 7.39 minutes ahead of Carlos Sainz/Michel Périn and 17.51 minutes ahead of Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford. Volkswagen has already led this year’s Dakar Rally, from the second to the fourth leg.

All three Volkswagen drivers have now moved up one place overall after a day which kicked off with an extremely tough and selective 60-kilometre stretch of dunes and concluded with some easier dirt tracks. This is because the leading team of Nasser Al-Attiyah/Tina Thörner in a BMW X3 incurred some technical problems on the way from San Rafael to Mendoza in Argentina and took a short cut, missing several of the waypoints and consequently being excluded. This allowed Volkswagen to achieve a threefold leg victory, with Giniel de Villiers coming in ahead of Mark Miller and Carlos Sainz – yet another superb driving and navigating performance.

The German Volkswagen duo Dieter Depping/Timo Gottschalk, who came second yesterday, were less lucky. After incurring a technical fault, they were forced to stop and were towed to the bivouac by a Volkswagen race truck. Depping/Gottschalk are now ranked eleventh overall.

This turn of events means that Volkswagen now has a comfortable lead in the first half of the rally, with the three teams’ closest challengers, Nani Roma/Lucas Cruz in a Mitsubishi, trailing behind the front-runners by 31.18 minutes.

Coming up …

Friday, 9 January: Leg 7, Mendoza (RA)–Valparaíso (RCH). The participants can expect some typical "Dakar” diversity on Friday. Sections of driving over scree followed by powdery sand much like the notorious "fesh-fesh” of the Sahara (and known as "guadal” here) are the order of the day. The teams should also be prepared for a long day of racing and after covering 816 kilometres, 419 of which will be against the clock, the first vehicles probably won’t make it to the bivouac until 8 p.m. local time. Half way through the rally, Saturday will then be a rest day.

Quotes after leg 6

Kris Nissen (Volkswagen Motorsport Director)
"My congratulations go out to the Volkswagen team today. The outcome of today’s leg and the overall rankings, with three Race Touareg cars at the top in both cases, is evidence of the fact that we prepared very well for this tough Dakar Rally. It has everything we had reckoned with, such as complicated navigation, demanding stretches of driving and, above all, plenty of excitement. We can be very happy with this interim result. But we are not forgetting that there are still some tough legs to come, and we now need to remain focused.”

#301 – Carlos Sainz (E), 3rd place leg / 2nd place overall
"My mechanics did some great work overnight and you can no longer tell we rolled the vehicle on yesterday’s leg. The race Touareg ran like a dream again today. The leg as a whole went very well. The only mishap was getting stuck at the foot of a dune and it took us a couple of minutes to get out of that one. What’s really important in this ‘Dakar’ is the resilience of the materials. And after what happened to us yesterday, I’m happy that we crossed the finishing line today in such a good position. It’s proof of how reliable our cars are.”

#305 – Giniel de Villiers (ZA), 1st place leg / 1st place overall
"An unbelievably tough leg today. The first third was all about overcoming very high dunes, some of them with very soft sand. The TDI power in our Race Touareg really helped us keep going where others got into difficulties. And we are more than happy with today’s result.”

#308 – Mark Miller (USA), 2nd place leg / 3rd place overall
"It took me a while to get into the rhythm of things today, but when I overtook a Mitsubishi in the dunes, my instinct was aroused once more. We had a great duel with Robby Gordon in the Hummer along this very difficult stretch. But the most significant piece of news today is that our vehicles are really reliable and the current results are just great.”

News from the Volkswagen bivouac
All you can eat – Volkswagen awarded an unusual sausage licence

Six rubber stamps, seven signatures, and two visits to the bivouac from a sizeable delegation – after several days of negotiations, Argentina’s veterinary ministry has granted Volkswagen permission to consume the supplies of frankfurters that it has brought with it. Importing food to Argentina is not usually permitted, but the authorities made an exception for the Volkswagen team – involving an official inspection and all documentation in duplicate. But the technicians, drivers and engineers need to get eating the sausages as soon as possible, as all food has to be used up before the "Dakar” armada crosses the border into Chile on Friday.

Only on the "Dakar” – from a racetrack to a football stadium

The rally armada experienced not one but two unusual locations to set up camp on the sixth day of the "Dakar”. In the morning, the participants set off from the racetrack in San Rafael, where they had used the infield and the asphalt as their overnight service location. Then the crews arrived in the city of Mendoza in the afternoon, which is also the name of the local province where the best wines in South America are said to be grown. And in Mendoza, the teams have set up their service camp by the football stadium in Parque San Martin.

Source Volkswagen Motorsport

Double leg victory for Volkswagen - de Villiers now ranked second

2009-01-08T17:30:00.000+10:30

A double success for Volkswagen: Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz won the fifth leg of the Dakar Rally from Nequén to San Rafael, ahead of their teammates Dieter Depping/Timo Gottschalk.

South African de Villiers has therefore improved his overall ranking in this legendary cross-country rally by one place and is now ranked second overall, 2.24 minutes behind the new rally leaders Nasser Al-Attiyah/Tina Thörner. He is now also the new leading Volkswagen driver in the field.

Dieter Depping/Timo Gottschalk were at the front of the pack for several hundred kilometres of today’s leg. The route, which ranged in altitude from 400 metres to 2,300 metres above sea level, featured lots of alternating between clearly visible tracks and long sections of off-road driving, as well as an approximately 20-kilometre stretch of demanding dunes to be negotiated towards the end. The German pair eventually came second, securing their best result so far on this cross-country rallying classic.

Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford also had reason to be pleased, coming in sixth on today’s turbulent 506-kilometre-long special stage and therefore supplanting Mitsubishi driver Joan "Nani” Roma to take fourth place overall. Meanwhile, Carlos Sainz/Michel Périn suffered a setback: after leading the rally for three days, they finished today’s leg in ninth place in spite of a rollover shortly before the finishing line, and were 15.42 minutes behind the day’s winners. The two-time rally world champion has therefore dropped to third place in the overall rankings and trails the front runners by 6.33 minutes.

Coming up …

Thursday, 8 January: Leg 6, San Rafael (RA)–Mendoza (RA). The sixth leg of the 2009 Dakar Rally is characterised by lots of possible route choices. The drivers and their co-pilots will first encounter a 60-kilometre-long stretch of dunes on their way to Mendoza. The second part of the day’s journey is then seemingly easier, but is tricky all the same – a wide ford will require all of the participants’ attention if they want to avoid taking an unexpected dip. The participants will clock up a total of 625 kilometres on this stage, 395 of which are against the clock.

Quotes after leg 5
Kris Nissen (Volkswagen Motorsport Director)
"Today was really quite eventful and ultimately turned out well for Volkswagen. The good news to balance out some bad news is that Carlos Sainz and Michel Périn suffered a rollover, but were unscathed and were able to get the vehicle back on its wheels quickly. The Race Touareg is a robust vehicle and the pair were able to soldier on to the finishing line without having lost too much time. We now have a long night ahead of us, fixing the Race Touareg up in preparation for tomorrow, but we still have all the trump cards in our hand. I’m delighted with the performances of Giniel de Villiers and Dieter Depping in their respective Race Touareg, as it demonstrates that we are more than able to compete, even in the harshest of conditions.”

#301 – Carlos Sainz (E), 9th place leg / 3rd place overall
"The leg started well for us today. But unfortunately, we hit a rock badly around half way along the special stage, and that knocked our power steering out. We had to drive without it for 200 kilometres to the dune section of the leg. The lack of power steering meant we had to take a different line of approach – and that’s when we rolled. The mechanics unfortunately now have a lot of work to do. But we are only trailing by just over six minutes, and we know that anything can happen still.”

#305 – Giniel de Villiers (ZA), 1st place leg / 2nd place overall
"A successful day, all in all, which could have been even better. We took things easy at first, planning to attack more and more towards the end. This strategy paid off, but we did unfortunately damage a rim when we hit a rock that was hidden in the sand, and that cost us a bit of time. We’re very happy to have won our first leg – especially as it was the most difficult leg of the ‘Dakar’ so far.”

#307 – Dieter Depping (D), 2nd place leg / 9th place overall
"A crazy day, with pretty much all the possible conditions that make the ‘Dakar’ what it is. There were very fast stretches and there were high dunes, the likes of which I have never negotiated before. We weren’t too sure whether we were taking the right line on the dunes – but we obviously did, because we ended up in second place. And we’re more than happy with that.”

#308 – Mark Miller (USA), 6th place leg / 4th place overall
"We had a few mishaps today. Things were going fairly smoothly until we caught up with Luc Alphand. We used our Sentinel, but he wouldn’t let us pass. Then we experienced a flat tyre, which also involved damage to a rim, so we lost more than the usual two minutes because the wheel was stuck. But in spite of all this, we can be very happy with our result today.”

News from the Volkswagen bivouac
"Magic potion” for the Volkswagen drivers – a source of energy on the open road:
It’s hotter than in Africa on this year’s Dakar Rally through Argentina and Chile, and these climatic conditions contribute to making it the toughest "Dakar” ever. Including the liaisons, the drivers and co-pilots in particular can spend up to ten hours behind the wheel of their cross-country rallying prototypes. And with such a high rate of perspiration in these conditions, the participants not only need to be at the peak of physical fitness, but also need to compensate for this loss of fluids sufficiently: a drink additive was therefore developed at the Institute of Sports Nutrition in Bad Nauheim for the Volkswagen drivers, providing them with the necessary electrolytes, vitamins and trace elements while they are driving. Each day, Carlos Sainz and the other drivers need around six litres of the drink, which is brought down to a temperature of around ten to 15 degrees Celsius before each leg starts.

2,200 sets of three meals a day – the "Dakar” catering figures
There are some 2,200 people travelling around with the "Dakar” bivouac, which pitches up at a new location virtually every day. Around the clock, various meals are made available to the rally participants, the organisers, media reps and sponsors in the central catering area. It takes ten trucks simply to transport the approximately 1.5 tonnes of food around Argentina and Chile. The meals are cooked by 20 chefs, and the entire catering team totals 80. There are also plenty of liquids to be had, and every day 12,000 half-litre bottles of soft drinks are consumed.

Source Volkswagen

Volkswagen narrowly wins day four of the "Dakar"

2009-01-07T17:33:00.000+10:30

Volkswagen clinched a thrilling duel on the fourth leg of the Dakar Rally to win its second stage victory.

Carlos Sainz/Michel Périn in a Race Touareg fought it out with Nasser Al-Attiyah/Tina Thörner on today’s route from Jacobacci to Neuquén in western Argentina. The Volkswagen duo ultimately gained the upper hand with a lead of six seconds in spite of experiencing a slow puncture on the last few kilometres of today’s special stage, which differed from the last few days’ routes due to trial-like sections, drives through dried-up riverbeds and a greater degree of off-road driving. Sainz now leads the famous desert classic for the third consecutive day and has increased his lead on the BMW X-raid driver to 3.46 minutes.

In their battle for the front position, Sainz and Al-Attiyah put more than two minutes between themselves and the third best team, which goes to show how intense the competition on today’s 488-kilometre leg was. Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz came in sixth today in their Volkswagen Race Touareg, defending their third place overall. Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford achieved the fourth best time of the day on today’s special stage, which went from an altitude of over 1,300 metres to just 300 metres above sea level. This means there are still three Volkswagen drivers in the top six in the overall rankings. Dieter Depping/Timo Gottschalk came in eleventh in the fourth Race Touareg, 12.49 minutes behind Sainz/Périn, after having to make two stops for tyre changes along the way. Overall, the German pair have now improved their ranking by two places to 13th.

Coming up …

Wednesday, 7 January: Leg 5, Neuquén (RA)–San Rafael (RA). The drive from Neuquén in the north-west to San Rafael in the province of Mendoza is perhaps the most challenging test in the first rally week of the "Dakar”. The great distance to be travelled – 763 kilometres in total, of which 506 kilometres are against the clock – will call for a high degree of concentration and includes a 20-kilometre drive through sand dunes as well as off-road stretches along the "rios”. The Andes will be visible on the horizon today.

Quotes after leg 4

Kris Nissen (Volkswagen Motorsport Director)
"Again, we can say that things went well for Volkswagen once more on day four. I’m immensely proud of the entire Volkswagen team, including the drivers, who have done a great job so far in this year’s ‘Dakar’. Carlos Sainz and Nasser Al-Attiyah are currently the fastest in the field, but all the other teams are still hot on their heels. After day four, I would say that so far, this has been one of the most exciting ‘Dakars’ ever. There’s no doubt about it – bringing this rally to Argentina and Chile was a good idea.”

#301 – Carlos Sainz (E), 1st place leg / 1st place overall
"Today was very exciting. During the special stage, we not only caught up with Nasser Al-Attiyah in the BMW, who started ahead of us, but also went on to even overtake him. Things became quite tight again towards the end after we suffered a slow puncture. We decided to press on without changing the tyre, but we did have to stop to pump it up again. And that did the trick: 0.8 bar was all that was left in the tyre at the finishing line and we had secured ourselves a six-second lead.”

#305 – Giniel de Villiers (ZA), 6th place leg / 3rd place overall
"We had a very interesting day today. Things got off to a good start and all in all, everything was as good as perfect. We did lose our way briefly and found ourselves in a dead end. We then had difficulty getting back on course, and that cost us a few minutes. The Race Touareg has so far stood up admirably to everything that’s been thrown at it. That’s good to know, because the event is getting more difficult by the day and the biggest challenges of the rally are most certainly still to come.”

#307 – Dieter Depping (D), 11th place leg / 13th place overall
"Today didn’t go quite as well as the last few days. We forfeited twelve minutes in comparison to the leaders, but having suffered two punctures, I’m happy with this result nonetheless. Apart from upsets like that, which can happen again and again, the Race Touareg is running like clockwork.”

#308 – Mark Miller (USA), 4th place leg / 6th place overall
"I’m more than happy with fourth place. It’s been a great day! Because I’m sticking to my tactic of not taking too many risks during the initial special stages. The legs are already getting more and more demanding by the day, and the most difficult stretches are still to come. But with lots of rocks along the track, we didn’t want to risk getting a puncture by driving too unrelentingly. We’re focusing on keeping the top of the leader board within reach – and we achieved that today

Three questions for Peter Utoft, Volkswagen Team Manager

This Dakar Rally is one of the biggest challenges the drivers and co-pilots can face. What is different about the "Dakar” in terms of organising the team?
"The mechanics and engineers have to deal with quite a marathon every day too. On average, the crews in the service vehicles cover about 800 kilometres every day. This entails setting off at 4.00 a.m. in order to be ready to service the rally vehicles at the next bivouac when they come in. This servicing work can easily last until midnight – so there’s not much time for sleeping.”

What minor adjustments can you make as the team manager in order to make things as comfortable as possible for the technicians and engineers?
"For maximum crew safety on the long service routes, we have stipulated that one team member per vehicle must get at least six hours of sleep. And then there is also a small crew that stays with the Race Touareg until just before the leg gets underway. A different crew does this every day – and this has the advantage that the crew in question can then have a longer sleep. But on the flip side of the coin, this means they also get to the next bivouac much later.”

To what extent does good organisation play a part in the success of the rally drivers?
"Good team management involves making sure that each and every member of the crew is in the right place at the right time. It is also important to us that the mechanics are happy, and they can only be motivated in their work if they are able to get as much sleep as possible, get on well with the other team members and are also well fed by our very own chef. The individual work processes are also an important criterion and every member of the team needs to know what he should be doing in the bivouac. This is working in this year’s team without the need for much to be said. So I would say that we have once again come on a long way in this area.”