To the Point: Geneva 2006

Text from Volkswagen AG.
Volkswagen starts the BlueMotion Program with two world premieres

BlueMotion stands for activities promoting the sustainability approach

World premier I: Polo BlueMotion uses 3.9 liter and is 176 km/h fast

World premier II: Concept A with the first natural gas TSI power transmission

• Volkswagen starts the sustainability initiative BlueMotion. The BlueMotion is not only focused on the consumption and emissions of automobiles but on the company as a whole. “Blue” – the Volkswagen color – stands for the elements water and air. “Motion” embodies the aspect of a mobility oriented forward, towards the future. The goal is to protect the resources of the earth for future generations. On the product side, BlueMotion is meant to advance to a seal of quality that identifies the most economic version of each series.

BlueMotion signalizes: Economy and driving fun

• The definition “BlueMotion” signalizes at the same time that economic fuel consumption does not come at the expense of driving fun. Volkswagen already enforces this claim today with its TDI, FSI and TSI engines in all series. Technically the potential of these engines is by far not exhausted. In the middle-run these engine systems will blend together to new power drive concepts. Example CCS: In the next decade, the CCS hybrid combustion process, a power transmission and fuel system, that combines the advantages of the Diesel and Otto engine worlds, will take over the conventional diesel and gas fuel engines and be using synthetic fuel. BlueMotion at its best.

World premier I: Polo BlueMotion with 3.9 liter average fuel consumption

• Under the label of the new environmentally friendly brand, Volkswagen presents the first model of the series in Geneva the Polo BlueMotion. The 59 kW / 80 hp strong compact has an average usage of only 3.9 liter diesel for every hundred kilometers, however it is not less agile than a conventional Polo with the same performance. Savings: 0.5 liter. Reduction of CO2 emission: by 16 g/km. The consumption and emission reductions were achieved through light construction measures, aerodynamic fine tuning and internal engine modifications. The Volkswagen is shifted via a manual five gear transmission. The Polo, manufactured in Pamplona, Spain, will have its market introduction in Switzerland, Austria and Germany in the summer of 2006.

World premier II: Concept A with the first natural gas Twincharger

• The visitors of the Geneva Auto Salon can experience another world premier under the hood of the Concept A study. It is fueled by the first natural gas (CNG) powered TSI. This via compressor and turbo double charged 1.4 liter engine (Twincharger) develops 110 kW / 150 hp and uses an average of only 5.0 kg natural gas every hundred kilometers.

• Highly charged engines like the TSI from Volkswagen generally work with a high efficiency degree. This again significantly improves with the CNG (compressed natural gas, 130 ROZ). One of the positive effects: The CO2 balance of the natural gas powered TSI engines is 20 to 25 percent lower than a gas fueled TSI. Above that, TSI+CNG advances to one of the most important stepping stone technologies on the way to a crude oil independent mobility. Through conversion from natural gas to synthetic fuel (gas-to-liquids) for instance Synfuel is produced. It is environmentally benign bio-degradable fuel which – among other things – allows the mentioned CCS hybrid combustion process.

• Fact is: The over 200 km/h fast Concept A BlueMotion shows the vanguard gateway between sports cars and the SUVs of tomorrow. It front part gives an insight of a future VW all-terrain vehicle under the Touareg. The silhouette shows the lines of a coupe. The front and rear doors open facing each other. The carriage overhangs are briskly short, the hood long, the C columns one of a kind. 20 inch alloy rims and 295 tires fill out the space in the distinctively extended wheelhouses. The rear part, with its athletic flanks, imparts a strong elegance. The hatchback is built in tailgate-style and can be opened in two steps: the area under the rear lights swings out like a pick-up loading surface and thus creates a lot of room for big items.

Most Economical Polo Ever: The Polo BlueMotion

Text from Volkswagen AG.
BlueMotion symbolises Volkswagen's sustainability activities

WOLFSBURG / GENEVA - In Geneva, Volkswagen presents its first series production vehicle under the BlueMotion banner: the Polo BlueMotion. The compact vehicle with a power output of 59 kW / 80 PS consumes an average of just 3.9 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres, but is just as agile as a conventional Polo with the same specifications. Fuel savings: 0.5 litres per 100 kilometres.

The reduced consumption and emission values were achieved by longer gear ratios, by aerodynamic refinements and by modifications inside the engine. The Volkswagen vehicle has a manual five-speed gearbox. The Polo BlueMotion is built in Pamplona in Spain and will be launched in Switzerland, the Netherlands, Austria and Germany in the Summer of 2006.

This Polo marks the start of Volkswagen's BlueMotion sustainability campaign. BlueMotion does not only refer to the consumption and emissions figures of a vehicle – it also refers to the company as a whole. "Blue" is the VW colour and symbolises the elements water and air. "Motion" embodies future, forward-looking mobility. BlueMotion will be developed into a seal of approval which will be awarded to the most fuel-efficient vehicles in a model range.

"BlueMotion" also means that driving fun has not been sacrificed for fuel efficiency – a principle that Volkswagen already implements in the TDI, FSI and TSI engines in all model ranges.

Volkswagen to Compete in Dakar Rally 2007

Text from Volkswagen Motorsport.
WOLFSBURG, Germany - Volkswagen to continue its involvement in cross country rallying and will compete in the Dakar Rally in 2007.

The Volkswagen factory team led by Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen will contest the 29th running of the desert classic with a further developed "Race Touareg 2”. At this year's "Dakar” the South African Giniel de Villiers and his Swedish co-driver Tina Thörner finished claimed an outstanding second position.

"With the ‘Dakar' project Volkswagen has established itself in professional motorsport within a remarkably short space of time. We want to pursue this positive development still further and have therefore decided to announce our participation in the 2007 Dakar Rally early”, explains Dr. Wolfgang Bernhard, Chairman of the Board for Volkswagen. "The Dakar Rally is an excellent platform in which to present the reliability, technical innovation and dynamic of Volkswagen in the toughest of competitions to a large section of the general public.”

With immediate effect Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen, who has been responsible for the Volkswagen brand's motorsport activities since June 2003, reports directly to Dr. Wolfgang Bernhard. Kris Nissen will coordinate the day-to-day business with Hans-Joachim Rothenpieler, the Director of Product Line E1.

"During the recent Dakar Rally we showed that the Race Touareg 2 has enormous potential. We will now push the development forward in logical steps”, say Kris Nissen. "We made significant progress before the ‘Dakar' in January. In the following eleven months fine tuning will be our main priority, which is not only related to engineering but also in the areas of logistics, preparation and team organisation.”

In addition to the comprehensive test schedule, Volkswagen will contest selected rounds of the FIA Cross Country Rally World Cup and the FIA Cross Country Rally Baja Cup during the 2006 season. "Drivers and co-drivers will be announced during the forthcoming weeks and months”, says Kris Nissen.

By finishing second overall in this year's Dakar Rally, which finished after 9043 kilometres on 15 January in the Senegalese capital city, with the Race Touareg 2 crewed by driver/co-driver team Giniel de Villiers/Tina Thörner (South Africa/Sweden), Volkswagen recorded the best ever result for a diesel vehicle in this cross country rally and a German automobile manufacturer since Porsche won in 1986. Volkswagen scored five stage victories – four were credited to Carlos Sainz/Andy Schulz (Spain/Germany) and one by de Villiers/Thörner – and held the 2006 Dakar Rally overall lead for five days.

In addition to the cross country rallying programme and its involvement in the Dakar Rally the Wolfsburg based automobile manufacturer also organises the ten-round ADAC Volkswagen Polo Cup which runs as part of the DTM (Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters) support programme.

Volkswagen Concept A World Premiere

Text and photos from Volkswagen AG.
VW-study shows an avant-garde cross between the sports cars and SUV’s of tomorrow

Crossover combines sports car design with SUV elements

Front part offers a glance at a VW-SUV below the Touareg

WOLFSBURG / BERLIN, Germany - It is the child of a new era. Its name: Concept A. A Volkswagen with all wheel drive, a cross between a sports car and SUV, with a design that is as powerful as it is aesthetic and that posses best all round features. Volkswagen celebrates its world premier in Berlin. The premier for the public will follow at the Geneve Automobile Salon in late February. The Concept A stands for a progressive design-philosophy. Its front part with a new 3D crest radiator grill made out of brushed aluminum and distinguished head lights form a congenial yet competent and confident progressive appearance. The “face” is well known, just not on an automobile, it looks like the mirror image of a cheetah. The silhouette shows the lines of a coupe. The front and rear doors open facing each other. The carriage overhangs are briskly short, the hood long, the C columns one of a kind. 20 inch alloy rims and 295 tires fill out the space in the distinctively extended wheelhouses.

Full load and plenty of light: Concept A’s finish is colored in the intense blue tone of glacier formations and is called „Glacier metallic“. Added are glass flakes which enhance the depth of the paint applied in a piano lacquer technique. The rear part, with its athletic flanks, imparts a strong elegance. The hatchback is built in tailgate-style and can be opened in two steps: the area under the rear lights swings out like a pick-up loading surface and thus creates a lot of room for big items. At the bottom the motor exhales via two round chrome pipes. The interior presents itself spacious and open. Light and air dominate the feel of the space. If needed, a large soft top can be swerved all the way back to the C column.

Motors any way you like, but with all wheel drive: The study shown in Berlin is powered by a 110 kW (150 hp) strong Twincharger (TSI), whose motto is “maximum driving pleasure, minimum consumption”. Its power reaches the wheels via a six gear transmission and an all wheel drive 4MOTION. A turbo diesel direct fuel injection (TDI) with diesel particle filter, the FSI Turbo of the Golf GTI (147 kW / 200 hp) and much more could also be used. Studies can do and are allowed anything.

Viable dream: The Concept A is the vision of an ideal Volkswagen. One of many variations of the future. They are all connected by one claim: Volkswagen, like the Concept A, has to be feasible for many customers and expand the model spectrum according to customer’s needs.

Present spectrum: Today this spectrum ranges from the Fox to the Phaeton. But more and more we will be seeing a fascinating diversity between these columns. CrossPolo, Golf GTI, Golf R32, Eos or the Passat Individual are showing the way. The New Beetle and the New Beetle Convertible were forerunners. The new spectrum between the columns offers a huge potential and includes cars like the clever Caddy Color Concept for families, the wild GX3 for California, the large Multivan Beach for the continental trip and the consistently versatile Eos for every day and every weather of the year.

Future Spectrum: But that’s not all. A VW sports car also fits between the columns. And an all wheel powered specialist of the Golf class has been on track to go into series for quite some time. As a concentrate of various automobiles, Concept A demonstrates where the optical journey can lead to. The crossover study combines elements of a compact SUV with the lines of a sports car. A designer’s coup de main.

SUV-Coupe: Presented worldwide for the first time in Berlin, the Concept A optically accompanies the leap of the Volkswagen brand into the future. Conceptually the design team used a point of attack coming from the ever growing de-fragmentation of the segments. Result: if up till now the SUV’s put the advantages of the steep hatchback in the forefront, the Concept A, with its coupe like rear part, underlines a more classic dynamic. Here the design combines the no compromise elegance of a sports car with the demonstrative robustness of an off road model. A fun machine and high everyday efficiency, a sports car with travel qualities, a coupe with station wagon features. The design of the 4.35 meter long, 1.85 meter wide and 1.55 meter high Concept A in detail:

Concept A - Design Silhouette
Imagine this car parked at the Gendarmenmarkt in Berlin. A pretty good picture

Evolution of pure dynamic: Here the VW language of the new era, recently continued with the Passat and Eos, finds another courageous step in evolution. Hereby the Concept A shows pure dynamic. Rising lines in the side graphic and the controlled interchange of surfaces and forms, but especially the sensational proportions reflect this dynamic and strength. Whoever moves around the car will always find new exciting modulations and accents; the design of the Concept A literally plays with the light.

They are big, those wheels: The 20 inch wheels with their 295 tires distributed on a wheelbase of 2.6 meters give the impression of strength and power. The radial spoke motive of the rims optically additionally enhances the diameter. The spokes lying on top of each other in two parts continue the dominant theme of 3D and appear to be floating in the rim.

Sharp proportions: The hood is extremely long, the back extremely short. Compact in any case are the carriage overhangs: In the front the axle is followed by 0.93 meter, in the rear its only 0.82 meter. The volume in between is distinguished by a prominent design element: The strong molding of the side skirts. Its concave transition to the surface is combined with a line at shoulder height. Sillboards, wheel arches and fenders melt to a muscular and excitement loaded form variety. Furthermore: What starts as a discrete line in the front part of the silhouette at the height of the A column, develops towards the rear to a continuously stronger modeled shoulder in the style of very classic and timeless sports cars. Formally described this shoulder line captures the light and gives the C column, which is harmonically combined with the chassis body, its very own graphic of a stretched triangle. Subjectively described, the incomparable C column shows speed and a crisp linkage in the perhaps sharpest and most dynamic rear part of any study ever presented by Volkswagen.

Who needs a B column? A contrast to the almost sensuous form is the graphic strictness of the door groove. The doors face each other. The reason: the functional advantages of the generous entry and the spectacular picture of the open door wings. There is no room for a B column. Detailed haptical and formal perfection let the door handles of both wings optically appear as one. Its outer surfaces are held in brushed aluminum while the interior surfaces are marked by a polished upper. Because of their form and position the door handles of the Concept A suggest a two door coupe. This impression is enhanced by the roof contours. The flat and stretched black covered roof covers the very low windows of the sports car silhouette.
Concept A - Design Front Part
Cheetahs are athletic, fast animals; the Concept A would be an athletic, fast automobile

Distinguished hissing: Already at first glance the new car communicates in a split second all optical messages over the front part of the automobile. In the front, the design of the Concept A shows a new evolutionary step Volkswagen’s crest radiator grill. The V theme, known among others from the Golf GTI and Passat, incorporates the grill as an integral element in the sculpture. Clearly drawn out it eludes itself of the reservations of a homogenous surface and leaps forward with a balanced concentration of aggression. In the lower area however, the grill dodges behind a filigree body colored crossbeam. This picture resembles a wild cat, a Cheetah, fast, athletic, concentrated, not without desire to attack but also familiar.

Look me in the eyes: The slightly slanted headlights, the eyes of this cat underline the exceptional competent and confident appearance of the Concept A. A trapeze shaped headlight element brakes the circle characteristic for Volkswagen ever since the Beetle age. LEDs catapult the traditional motive of the round headlights into the future. The frame for the grille and headlights are formed by the bumper elements on the side, which in the lower continuation, visually take the V theme of the entire front part to the top level. This V stretches from the under carriage protection, over the crest radiator grill and the hood with its power domes, all the way to the A columns.

Classic like a Roadster: Just like the soft top of a classic Roadster, the roof rises slightly over the comparatively low and steep front window. The aluminum outside space of the A columns give the front window as well as the roof optical support. In their graphic effect, dominantly designed through the material change they form an essential design characteristic of the Concept A.

Concept A - Design Rear Part
Who says a Coupe can’t be a pick up and a SUV can’t be a sports car? No one!

Multi variable trunk situation: As outlined the hatchback of the Concept A is made of two parts. The lower part can be opened independently and just like a pick-up can stay open for the transport of long items. The top part: The outside lying hinges are not only a symbol for functionality and solidity they are also a technical requirement for the distinguished flow of the coupe like roof contour. The hatchback, with its large window and the flat angle, reiterates a classic sports car design element.

One likes to drive behind that: In their graphic, the rear lights take up a, for this day and age, typical VW design element. The circle and the trapeze. New however is the again three dimensional design of the rear lights and that they are an integral part of the breathtaking shoulder of this study. At the bottom the motor exhales via two round chrome pipes.

Concept A - Design Interior
Everything light and airy, no overloading of the instruments; on good days the folding roof turns the Concept A into a convertible

Spacious interior: Light and air dominate the space’s feel. A large soft top can be swerved all the way back to the C column if needed. In its concept the interior is of a surprising clarity. The four bucket seats offer optimum ergonomic features, yet are still built in a space-saving manner. The cockpit and middle console are separate independent areas that were created solitaire, free of compromises of a forced connection.

Less is more: In its volume and formal specification, the middle console already embodies a formal connection to motor and transmission. The gear shift knob is positioned ideally. So that while driving the right hand forms a direct line to the strength flow between motor, transmission and all wheel drive. The completely reduced design of the cockpit, however, appears to be floating in the room. A central round instrument allows for concentrating on essentials. Standing out is the formal integration of the climate exhaust which intentionally are used as a dominant design element. Their large space grid structure carries functional elements like the Multi-Media-Interface.

Showing true colors: The future of the interior design is accompanied by a non judgmental handling of the different materials from all provenances. The familiar re-interpreted mixed provocatively with pure innovation. Already the names are proof of courage and fantasy: The fixtures are covered with black patent leather named “Black Reflection” the applications magnesium painted in “Frozen Ice”. The doors as well as other interior lining parts again turn to the colors “Black Reflection” and “Frozen surface” (black nubuk leather and silver applications). The light middle lanes of the seats are upholstered with the high tech fabric “Antarctica”, a half transparent and extremely breathable fiber. The sitting cheeks and leg rests are then again decorated with black smooth and suede leather. That leaves the carpet in the light tone “Ice Crystal” which says it all.
Concept A - Technical data
Essential facts of the study shown in Berlin

Measurements
Length	4,348 mm
Width	1,854 mm
Height	1,551 mm
Wheel base	2,602 mm
Overhang front	925 mm
Overhang rear	821 mm
Track gage front	1,546 mm
Track gage rear	1,541 mm
Engine
Concept	1.4 TSI (Twincharger)
Max. output	110 kW / 150 PS
Drive train/Wheels
Transmission	Six gear transmission
Axle drive	4MOTION all wheel drive
Wheels front	10Jx20 – ET 42
Wheels rear	10Jx20 – ET 28
Tire dimensions	295/40 ZR 20

Restructuring Programme Prepared for Volkswagen

Text from Volkswagen AG.
WOLFSBURG, Germany - The Volkswagen Group successfully completed its ForMotion efficiency programme in 2005, achieving an improvement of € 3.5 billion in its result.

Thanks to ForMotion, the Group was able to counteract the negative earnings impact caused by market conditions. However, as a result of the extremely tense economic situation, the Volkswagen Brand still only records a very slight profit. Dr. Bernd Pischetsrieder, Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG: "In particular, the export capability of the German VW plants is not ensured. We continue to incur significant losses on cars exported from Germany to the USA. In order to ensure a secure long term future for the Group, we must act rapidly and determinedly to eliminate the problems that we face."

In this context, comprehensive internal and external competitive comparisons have been conducted. The results are outlined below:

• As regards productivity, it was found that Volkswagen still had a significant disadvantage on an international basis (related to products, procedures and processes).

• In comparison with our best German plants, the traditional German Volkswagen plants still record very high losses;

• In some cases, the component plants are operating economically; others are far from reaching this target.

In view of the loss-making situation of the traditional German plants and intensifying competition in European and global automobile markets, the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG has decided on a thorough restructuring programme for the Volkswagen AG.

Pischetsrieder: "Our restructuring programme focuses precisely on the key problems we have identified. Rapid, determined action is called for in this area."

The key objectives of the restructuring programme are:

• the elimination of productivity deficits, especially at the vehicle assembly plants;

• full capacity deployment at the plants, including capacity adjustments where necessary;

• more competitive personnel expenses;

• a reorganisation of component production.

Over the next three years, up to 20,000 employees directly and indirectly involved in the activities of the Volkswagen Passenger Car Brand could be affected by the restructuring programme.

The methods to be used for achieving and implementing productivity and structural improvements have not yet been defined and will be a matter for negotiation. The Board of Management of Volkswagen AG stands by the collective agreement of November 2004. The target is to ensure the competitiveness of the Group and its employees. This is not possible with the current conditions. For this reason, Volkswagen aims to conduct negotiations with the Works Council and the IG Metall trade union rapidly with a view to finding the best way of reaching these two targets.

Volkswagen Shows All-New Golf at Chicago Auto Show

Text and photos from Volkswagen of America.
CHICAGO – Volkswagen of America, Inc. has chosen Chicago—one of the German automaker’s best metro markets in the country—to debut Europe’s best-selling car, the new Volkswagen Golf hatchback.

While the reveal of the first U.S. specific Golf comes as news to many U.S. car buyers, those who have a genuine affinity for European models already know this fifth-generation Golf is a significant automotive accomplishment. It is hands down the most popular motoring choice for drivers on the other side of the Atlantic, and it is renowned—as its predecessors all have been—for its appeal that transcends both status and social class. To the purist, the Golf epitomizes an authentic German car built for a wide group of buyers who share a stringent set of Teutonic standards for motoring.

The new Golf goes on sale this summer in both a two door- and four-door version. Volkswagen said it will announce official pricing later this year. Standard items on all new Golfs will include an advanced ABS braking system, traction control, active headrests (front), front and rear head curtain protection, front side airbags, manual climate control and anti-theft alarm system with remote locking.

Throughout Europe and in many parts of the world, Golf owners chose this model for its unique and inherent value. First and foremost, the Golf is an authentic German car. This key trait translates into superior automotive engineering, high build quality, use of top-notch materials, comfort, utility, uncompromised safety and an overriding attention to detail in the design and development of what is simply one the world’s most important and popular cars. The Golf’s model history dates back to 1974, with all-time sales nearing 24 million, making it the second best-selling car in world history. To put that number into perspective, you need to imagine that nearly 2,100 Golfs are built every day around the world.

The new Golf shown for the first time in North America at the Chicago auto show is a completely revised version from the Golf sold last year. Major new features abound; however, perhaps the most important technology resides within the confines of the all-new sheet metal and behind the prominent new grill. The new Golf, referred to internally and by enthusiasts as the Mark V for its 5th generation, is a premium car in Germany and throughout the world for sound German engineering and development.

This fifth-generation Golf platform is renowned for its solidity and sophistication that make it one of the best-selling models in the world. Built in Wolfsburg, Germany, the home of Volkswagen, the Golf benefits from Volkswagen’s high-tech production process that includes industry-leading robotics in its assembly technology and sequences.

Improved from an already solid predecessor, the new Golf records double-digit improvements in its overall structural rigidity. Such firm stature is achieved partially through the use of more high-strength body panels, intelligent design, and the exacting precision that is German automotive engineering. As stated earlier, production also plays a major role: for example, rivets are replaced by advanced laser-welding systems that require a new-generation of robotics and elaborate laser-driven measuring check points. The result is a dramatic increase in precise laser-welded seams, normally reserved for cars in much higher segments of the market. The net benefit of the Golf’s laser-welding process is a class-leading fit and finish, heightened body strength, crash protection, dialed-in driving dynamics, and reduced interior noise—all key components that set the Golf apart as a premium compact car.

Drivers of the new Golf will enjoy the model’s first fully independent suspension system that uses a multi-link rear and optimized front axle, a new powerful base engine with a larger displacement of 2.5 liters and five-cylinders generating 150 horsepower and a new optional six-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic (five-speed manual standard).

Also among the most impressive new driving advancements are a standard high-tech electro-mechanical steering system, an optional advanced electronic stability program (ESP), and new-generation ABS all-disc brakes.

The new Golf adds more interior room than ever with a larger hatch and hatch opening. Legroom has also increased in this new version.

For added assurance, the new Golf will come with 24-hour Roadside Assistance for four years with unlimited mileage and new vehicle warranties including:

•Five-year/60,000 mile (whichever occurs first) Powertrain Limited Warranty

•Four-year/50,000 mile (whichever occurs first) New Vehicle Limited Warranty with wear and tear items and adjustments excluded after the initial 12 months/12,000 miles

•12 year unlimited distance Limited Warranty against corrosion perforation

Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world’s largest producers of passenger cars and Europe’s largest automaker. Volkswagen of America and its affiliates employ approximately 3,000 people in the United States and are responsible for the sale and service of Audi, Bentley, and Volkswagen products through retail networks comprising in total more than 900 independent U.S. dealers.

Reason to Watch the Olympics This Weekend

Text from Adweek.
ATLANTA Leave it to Crispin Porter + Bogusky, the agency that introduced the iconic Burger King mascot with the outsized head, to try a similar tactic in its first advertising on the $400 million Volkswagen account.

VW GTI spots break during Saturday's Winter Olympics coverage and employ a video-game-style mascot named "Fast." VW described "Fast" as an icon that is not animated.

The effort introduces a redesigned GTI, the sports car of the VW stable, and the work from MDC Partners' CP+B in Miami attempts to recapture the cult following the model once enjoyed among young car enthusiasts, VW said, though it declined to describe the spots in detail.

The ads tap into something known as "the tuner crowd" of mostly young males who like to customize their cars, the client said. The ads promote the GTI as "the original pocket rocket," a slang term popular with that group.

CP+B executives declined to discuss the new ads.

The ads also stress the company's German heritage and its reputation for craftsmanship. VW's Teutonic roots also are evident on a Web site, www.fastproject.com, the company launched last week as part of the new campaign. A male voice with a thick German accent questions visitors about the concept of fast and its importance.

VW shifted its North American creative duties to CP+B without a review last December following a 10-year relationship with Havas-owned Arnold in Boston. The latter had coined the phrase "Drivers wanted" in a long-running campaign.

Stage Set for the Stars of Tomorrow

Text from Volkswagen AG.
Volkswagen supports Berlinale Talent Campus and Shooting Stars initiative

WOLFSBURG / BERLIN, Germany - As a main partner of the 56th Berlin International Film Festival, Volkswagen is again focusing on emerging talent with its support of the “Berlinale Talent Campus #4”. In addition, Volkswagen is also part of this year’s Shooting Stars initiative for European film talent.

This is the third time that Volkswagen is giving its support to the Berlinale Talent Campus in the House of World Cultures. From February 11 – 16, 2006, 520 talented filmmakers from 101 nations can exchange experience and network with the film community, including the actress and this year’s Berlinale Jury President Charlotte Rampling (GB), director Wim Wenders (D) and star cinematographer Christopher Doyle (AU).

Oscar award winner Stephen Warbeck (GB, “Shakespeare In Love”) has agreed to act as mentor for the “Volkswagen Score Competition”. The film music composer will advise the competition finalists when they set to music a Volkswagen clip along with two other film excepts. The Volkswagen clip documents the “Project Fox”: young artists entirely redesigned the former Parkhotel in Copenhagen, creating the “Hotel Fox” to coincide with the european market launch of the small car Fox. The clip will premiere at the “Farewell Ceremony” (commencing 8:00 p.m.) on February 16, 2006 marking the close of the Berlinale Talent Campus.

The “Potluck Recipes: Inspired Teamwork” workshop organized by Volkswagen Coaching GmbH will start at 4:30 p.m. on February 14 and 15, 2006. The workshop, specially developed for the Berlinale Talent Campus, introduces young filmmakers to the success factors of high-achievement teams.

From February 11 – 13, 2006, “Shooting Stars 2006”, a European Film Promotion (EFP) initiative, presents young European film talent to the public at the Berlinale. A total of 21 Shooting Stars who attracted attention through their outstanding presence on the screen in 2005 have been nominated by EFP member organizations.

The German Shooting Star 2006 is the 30-year old actress Johanna Wokalek. Born in Freiburg, Wokalek debuted at the 1996 Wiener Festwochen with “Alma – A Show biz ans Ende” and most recently impressed the film community with her outstanding performance as Leila in Til Schweiger’s film “Barfuß” (Barefoot).

Volkswagen is providing the Berlinale Talent Campus with four Touareg for the VIP shuttle service and five Multivans for young film teams. The Shooting Stars will be chauffeured around Berlin in 15 Golf R32.

Volkswagen and Google Team Up to Explore Future Vehicle Navigation Systems

Text and photos from Volkswagen of America.
Virtual Reality: Prototype with Google Earth creates realistic 3D, satellite-based map

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – Volkswagen of America, Inc. and Google recently presented the future of vehicle navigation at the 2006 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, and it’s closer to virtual reality than ever before.

Volkswagen, Google, and graphics chipmaker, nVidia, are working on an in-car navigation map system and display that is 3-dimensional and more real looking than anything that’s available today.

Driver and Passenger will be able to instinctively recognize where they are in relation to the surrounding topography, especially in urban areas that are depicted with depth and accurate size relationships between buildings and roads.

Volkswagen, working through its Electronic Research Laboratory (ERL), in Palo Alto, Calif., together with Google and nVidia, is also working on other advancements, including automatic personalized content updates for its vehicle navigation systems.

Highlights of Volkswagen’s prototype vehicle include a vehicle-centric touchscreen interface to Google Earth with state-of-the-art graphics, accurate 3D maps and real-time traffic updates and routing. This open system harnesses the power of the web to maintain a dynamic database of current information on restaurants, dealerships, gas stations and other points of interest that can be overlaid directly onto the user’s 3D map. With the increasing accuracy of GPS, dead-reckoning and laser-radar imaging, as well as ever-improving car-to-infrastructure communication, this prototype will be available on showroom floors in the near future.

High-quality 3D and satellite-based representations of the world are becoming an exciting feature in on-line search engines and navigation. These photo-realistic, high-resolution 3D images are not only more engaging for the user, but they are also more efficient and accurate at conveying information than traditional 2D mapping representations.

About the Electronics Research Laboratory
The Volkswagen of America, Inc. Electronics Research Laboratory (ERL) focuses on providing customers with smarter cars, sooner. It aims to identify new technologies and accelerate their development into future production vehicles. Located in Palo Alto, California, the ERL is a high-profile think-tank representing the Volkswagen Group in North America. Its presence in the heart of Silicon Valley allows the Volkswagen Group to work directly with the world's leading high-tech companies, start-ups, and universities. Working closely with these partners allows the ERL to design and develop innovative features and applications, which are then integrated with Group vehicles for evaluation and testing. For additional information please visit www.vwerl.com.

Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world’s largest producers of passenger cars and Europe’s largest automaker. Volkswagen of America and its affiliates employ approximately 3,000 people in the United States and are responsible for the sale and service of Audi, Bentley, and Volkswagen products through retail networks comprising in total more than 900 independent U.S. dealers.

Volkswagen TV Broadcasts First Programme Across Europe

Text from Volkswagen AG.
EU research project with interactive VW television tests new learning platform for further education

Wolfsburg, 03 February 2006 - Volkswagen TV broadcast its first programme across Europe on Friday within the framework of an EU research project. A total of 40 companies and project partners in Germany, France, Greece, Great Britain, Italy, Austria, Poland, Sweden and Spain were connected live during the 45 minute transmission. The interactive VW television project is to test a new learning platform for the further training of employees in Europe.

This research project is sponsored by the EU education programme Leonardo da Vinci. Over the last few months, Volkswagen has been able to convince 20 project partners in nine countries to get involved. These partners then enable access to Volkswagen TV for a further 40 small and medium-sized companies and educational institutions.

The bi-lingual, German/English opening programme with topics such as "What is Volkswagen TV?“ as well as the content and objectives of the EU project was watched by those people who are responsible for training in their companies and institutions and who are looking for new methods for the training of their employees. Volkswagen TV demonstrates a broad range of the different opportunities for learning and teaching that are available.

Volkswagen TV has, since the summer of 2002, already proven itself to be a competent partner in the scope of interactive training and information television for the Volkswagen dealers in Germany. The employees in approximately 2,500 dealers and service locations regularly watch the transmissions. Furthermore, 23 VW importers have now signed up for the programme. The various contents of the programmes range from repair support via employee training to information about new products and management.

The concept of Volkswagen TV is also interesting for small and medium-sized companies in the whole of Europe. Horst Walka, the head of training at Volkswagen After Sales, is convinced of this: "Employee training is a decisive criterion for the success of any company. That's why we have to make training at the workplace possible throughout an entire career. We have had very positive results with Volkswagen TV. We now want to test and implement this medium throughout Europe within the scope of the EU research project."

The learning culture and training needs of companies in the individual European countries will first be researched. Decisive aspects such as multilingualism, comprehensibility and simultaneous transmission are the focus of these considerations. Volkswagen TV will broadcast a further ten programmes in this series by July 2006. The EU research project with the interactive television programme at Volkswagen will run until September 2007.

Volkswagen Service®
Volkswagen Service guarantees the mobility of Volkswagen customers worldwide. Its range of activities includes the training and provision of information for the 200,000 service employees in dealerships, the toll-free service hotline 0800-VOLKSWAGEN and the LongLife mobility guarantee. Volkswagen has also developed concepts for the environmentally-friendly disposal of end-of-life vehicles. Volkswagen Service has more than 10,000 partner dealerships worldwide and in Germany it has the biggest service network of all automobile manufacturers with approximately 2500 dealers.

Volkswagen and Sanyo Team Up to Develop Hybrid Batteries

Text from Forbes
TOKYO (AFX) - Sanyo Electric Co Ltd said it has agreed with Volkswagen AG to jointly develop a next-generation battery system for hybrid cars.

'It is a step for our company to achieve our long-term goal of securing half the global market share of batteries for hybrid cars in 2010,' when the market will be worth an estimated 400 bln yen, said a spokesman for the Japanese manufacturer.

Sanyo already provides 20,000 batteries each to Ford Motor and Honda Motor annually for their hybrid cars. The agreement paves the way for the Japanese maker to provide batteries to a carmaker based in Europe, the spokesman said.

Details on timing and the number of shipments have not been decided yet, he said.

Prestigious Award for TSI Development Goes to Dr. Rudolf Krebs of Volkswagen

Text and image from Volkswagen AG.
The 2006 Paul Pietsch Award goes to the Head of Volkswagen Engine Development in recognition of his new engine generation – the TSI engine already available in Golf GT.

Wolfsburg, 01 February 2006 - Another award for Volkswagen’s innovative TSI engine. The highly acclaimed 2006 Paul Pietsch Award, awarded by the specialist magazine, “Auto Motor und Sport”, goes to Dr. Rudolf Krebs (49) Head of Engine Development at Volkswagen. The panel recognised the new economical, high performance, high torque engine from the Golf GT as “an outstanding pioneering development in the automobile sector”.

“Maximum power – minimum consumption! This short formula really sums up the advantages of the TSI” says Rudolf Krebs. “Compared to naturally aspirated engines with a similar output, fuel consumption is reduced by about 10% while the car’s performance is clearly improved - we set the standards in this class. I am very happy about the award!” Volkswagen will offer this innovative technology in the Touran in the spring, after first being used in the Golf GT.

The goal of the Volkswagen developers was to reduce fuel consumption and at the same time offer better performance. The most effective measure towards reducing consumption is the so-called "downsizing". This involves a reduction of cylinder capacity in turn reducing friction losses, and engine weight resulting in a lower specific consumption and thus increased efficiency.

It was particularly challenging to produce an engine with small cylinder capacity that satisfies the present-day customer demand of being fun to drive while having low fuel consumption. The engineers at Volkswagen achieved this with the innovative double charging technology, in short TSI: They combined the classic exhaust gas turbo charger with a mechanically powered compressor, which supplies the engine with additional fresh air even at low engine speeds, providing for a superior torque curve and astonishing performance.

The only fuel injection technology to be considered was FSI, which Volkswagen uses in a range of models.

The result has already gone into series production in the sporty Golf GT. Here the 1.4 litre TSI with 125kW consumes just 7.2 litres of premium grade fuel for 100 kilometres. In over land traffic the “Twincharger” consumes only 5.9 litres. The Golf GT with the TSI engine is available from €22,500.

This is already the second award Volkswagen has received for the new twin charged engine. Last autumn Volkswagen received the Innovation Award from the internationally successful American science journal “Popular Science”.

Klaus Dierkes Appointed “Head of Human Resources, Volkswagen Germany”

Text and image from Volkswagen AG.
Wolfsburg, 01 February 2006 - Klaus Dierkes (48) has been appointed “Head of Human Resources, Volkswagen Germany” with effect from February 1, 2006. In this newly-created function, he reports to the Labour Director of Volkswagen AG, Dr. Horst Neumann.

Dierkes assumes operational responsibility for central human resources functions for the Volkswagen Group and brand in Germany. HR managers of the Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand in Germany will report to him. He will also coordinate the work of those responsible for HR affairs at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, Volkswagen Sachsen and Auto 5000. Furthermore, he will intensify cooperation between the HR departments at Volkswagen and Audi.

Dierkes was born in Höxter on March 8, 1957. Following management posts at what was then known as Volkswagen BKK, he became Managing Director of WOB AG in 1997, where he currently holds the position of Speaker of the Management Board. Dierkes is also Speaker of the Management Board of Autovision GmbH. He will continue to hold both functions until a successor has been appointed.

In Brief: 4MOTION in the Passat

Text from Volkswagen AG.
New four-wheel drive generation for the Passat saloon and estate

Wolfsburg, 01 February 2006 - 4MOTION offers more safety, better dynamics, and the ability to tow up to 2 200 kg

4MOTION and DSG standard in the 250 PS Passat 3.2 V6 FSI

4MOTION optional in the Passat 2.0 FSI (150 PS) and Passat 2.0 TDI (140 PS)

• 4MOTION, the four-wheel drive system from Volkswagen, offers enhanced active safety and driving pleasure. In 2006 the new Passat will be available in three different engine versions with the latest 4MOTION system. The top model of the Passat range, the 184 kW / 250 PS Passat 3.2 V6 FSI 4MOTION, has the most effective form of power distribution as standard. The 4MOTION drivetrain is available as an option with the Passat 2.0 FSI (110 kW / 150 PS) and the Passat 2.0 TDI (103 kW / 140 PS). The permanent four-wheel drive system is available for the Passat saloon and estate in combination with all equipment lines (3.2 V6 FSI 4MOTION: starting with the Comfortline).

4MOTION took over from syncro

• Permanent four-wheel drive also enhances the handling of the Golf, Sharan, Multivan, Phaeton, and Touareg. Volkswagen has been building Passat’s with four-wheel alongside front-wheel drive for over two decades; the first model, the Passat estate GT syncro, was launched in 1984. To date over 256,000 Passat drivers worldwide have opted for four-wheel drive.

4MOTION is powerful

• The Passat comes equipped for the first time with a 4MOTION system featuring Haldex coupling. The coupling, which is fitted directly in the rear axle, is considerably more compact and the system works quickly, sensitively, and quietly. Four-wheel drive also delivers major advantages for towing trailers. The Passat 3.2 V6 FSI 4MOTION, for example, pulls a hefty maximum trailer weight of 2 200 kg on uphill grades of up to 12 percent. Its gross weight rating for the rear axle is 1 220 kg. For the Passat 2.0 TDI 4MOTION a maximum trailer weight of 2 000 kg is allowed on uphill grades of up to 12 percent and 2 200 kg on up to 8 percent grades - in each case 200 kg more than with the front-wheel drive Passat 2.0 TDI. All Passat’s with a towing attachment also have ESP with special trailer stabilisation as standard.

4MOTION is adaptable

• The central element of the 4MOTION system is a multi-plate wet coupling (in an oil bath). It is called the Haldex coupling as it was developed together with Swedish systems partner Haldex who have worked with Volkswagen for many years. The Haldex coupling has the major advantage of being electronically controlled and having a very fast response. This allows it to work very effectively in conjunction with the anti-lock braking system (ABS), the traction control system (TCS), the electronic differential lock (EDL), and the electronic stability programme (ESP) – all these assistance systems are fitted as standard in the Passat.

4MOTION is always active

• As soon as differences in the speeds of rotation between the front and rear axles occur two annular piston pumps are activated which build up pressure in the multi-plate coupling (Haldex system) thus "coupling" the two axles to each other. The transmitted torque can be varied by adjusting the pressure on the coupling plates, thus controlling the flow of power between the front and rear axles. The coupling provides an infinitely variable torque transfer between the front and rear axles. In extreme cases up to 100 percent of the available torque can be transmitted to the rear axle. In the normal case with the vehicle travelling in a straight line at a constant speed with no differences in the wheels' grip, 90 percent of the available torque is transmitted to the front axle and ten percent to the rear axle. The Haldex coupling is driven by the propshaft.

4MOTION is fast

• The coupling responds to "commands" from the 4MOTION electronic control unit extremely quickly. As soon as the Haldex coupling registers front axle slip, the required torque is transmitted to the rear axle. The compact coupling can transmit a torque of 3 200 newton metres to the rear axle.

Note:
All the data and descriptions included in this press folder are valid for the programme of models available for sale in Germany. Models supplied to other countries may differ from these. All information is subject to change or correction.
The terms FSI, TDI, and DSG are protected Volkswagen AG trademarks or the trademarks of other companies belonging to the Volkswagen Group in Germany.

Volkswagen Canada January Sales Results

Text from CNW Group.
AJAX, ON, Feb. 1 /CNW/ - Volkswagen Canada sales totalled 1,753 new units for January 2006, compared with 1,113 units in January 2005, an increase of 57.5%. This total is comprised of:
68 New Beetles
201 Golf/GTIs
1,166 Jettas
266 Passats
51 Touaregs
1 Phaeton

Jetta and Passat sales continued to do well in January 2006, compared with January 2005, Jetta sales increased dramatically by 92.4%, while Passat sales climbed by 27.3%.

Volkswagen Reports January Sales - Up 28%

Text from Volkswagen of America.
New Jetta sedan up 47.9 percent and total Passat sales up 47.8 percent

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – Volkswagen of America, Inc. reported January 2006 sales of 16,237, an increase of 28 percent as compared to the same period in 2005 when sales were 12,683.

Also of note, the redesigned New Beetle continues its strong showing with sales up 13.3 percent.