Posted by Lorenzo at 11:17 am
Text from Volkswagen of America.IIHS and NHTSA recognize Volkswagen’s innovative active and passive safety equipmentAUBURN HILLS, Mich. – Volkswagen of America, Inc. announced today that the four-door 2006 Rabbit has been named a “Top Safety Pick-Silver” by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the latest in a series of accolades for the exceptional safety designed into Volkswagen models. Earlier this year, the IIHS named the 2006 Jetta a “Top Safety Pick-Silver.”
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also recognized the safety and performance for the 2006 and 2007 four-door Volkswagen Rabbit, Jetta, and Passat, giving them all four stars for driver and passenger frontal crash protection. The Rabbit and Jetta earned five stars for driver and rear passenger side crash protection and the Passat earned five stars for the driver and four stars for the rear passenger side crash protection.
The 2006 Passat carries a “ Top Safety Pick-Silver” designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and earned the top performance rating in both the front and side impact tests conducted by the Institute.
“Safety is implicit in Volkswagen engineering,” said Adrian Hallmark, executive vice president, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “Our philosophy is to bring the most effective active and passive safety technology to the widest range of models, at a moderate price.”
Advanced passive and active safety equipment is standard on all Volkswagens – including driver and front passenger front and side thorax airbag supplemental restraint system, Side Curtain Protection®, rear passenger side thorax only (available as a $350 option on the Jetta, Passat, and four-door Rabbit), rear crash optimized head restraints, Daytime Running Lights(DRL) and three-point safety belts for all seating positions. Front seat belts use pre-tensioners with load limiters to optimize occupant protection.
Contributing to Volkswagen’s reputation as an innovative leader in safety is equipment that can help avoid accidents in the first place, such as four-wheel disc ABS brakes coupled with an Engine Braking Assist system (EBA). An electro-mechanical power steering system can help assist with straight-ahead driving adjustments. Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP) is an active safety item that independent research shows is an increasing vital safety feature. Anti-Slip Regulation, Electronic Differential Lock, Electronic Brake-pressure Distribution and Hydraulic Brake Assist are additional available features that help to keep drivers and passengers safe.
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 sells the Rabbit, New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, Jetta, GTI, GLI, Passat, Passat wagon, Touareg and Phaeton through more than 600 independent U.S. dealers.
Posted by Lorenzo at 11:06 am
Text from Volkswagen AG.
WOLFSBURG, Germany - The Eos is the top-seller on the convertible market. With 1,559 new vehicle registrations in June, the Eos became the top-selling vehicle of its class in Germany.
Almost one in ten new convertibles sold in the month of June was an Eos. This statistic, supplied by the Federal Bureau of Motor Vehicles and Drivers, is particularly remarkable as the basic version of the Eos was not available in June. Delivery of the Eos 1.6 FSI with 85 kW / 115 PS to Europe is now starting (starting price: 25,950 euros).
The Eos range includes two petrol engines (110 kW, 147 kW) and a turbo diesel (103 kW) with a particulate filter fitted as standard. A V6 petrol engine with 184 kW is to be added to the range. Just a few weeks after the European debut of the Eos, trends are starting to establish themselves as to which specifications are preferred by customers: as regards engines, 47 percent of Eos drivers have selected the dynamic 2.0 TFSI with 147 kW / 200 PS, 25 percent have favoured the 110 kW / 150 PS 2.0 FSI, and 24 percent ordered the torquey TDI (103 kW / 140 PS) engine.
Clear preferences can also be seen with colour choices: 37 percent of Eos owners have opted to be seen in "Silver Essence metallic" in the hot European Summer. "Deep Black pearl effect" (27 percent) and "Midnight Blue metallic" (11 percent) are the 2nd and 3rd most popular colour options. 80 percent of Eos owners ordered a fully-automatic "Climatronic" air conditioning system even though the Eos is fitted with the "Climatic" semi-automatic air conditioning system as standard.
The exceptional sales figures are matched by an exceptionally good price: the 2.0 FSI with 150 PS can be purchased for just 245 euros* per month on the "FairEos" payment plan – including comprehensive vehicle insurance for one year, credit security and extended warranty period. Anyone placing an order today can look forward to spending the hot summer, and hopefully, a golden October, an a chic convertible.
* 1.9 % effective annual interest rate, € 7,454.63 down payment, 48-month credit term, 15,000 km per annum, € 13,600.52 final payment.
Posted by Lorenzo at 1:42 pm
Text from Volkswagen AG.Pischetsrieder: Successful model initiative – further efforts necessaryWOLFSBURG, Germany - The Volkswagen Group sold more vehicles, substantially increased sales revenue and improved earnings in the first six months of 2006.
Deliveries to customers were up by 11.9% year-on-year to 2.9 million vehicles. Sales revenue rose by 14.2% to €51.9 billion. At €2.0 billion, operating profit before special items increased by 51.3%. “Our model initiative is successful and our customers find it compelling. We have increased our market share in relevant countries,” commented Dr. Bernd Pischetsrieder, Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG, when the interim report for the first six months of 2006 was presented on Thursday. “We are on the right track and have made significant progress in improving our competitiveness. In absolute terms, however, our profit remains unsatisfactory. Further considerable efforts are still needed to secure sustained profitability and the future of our Group,” Pischetsrieder said.
In the period from January to June 2006, the Volkswagen brand group generated an operating profit before special items of €730 million, up €561 million on the previous year. Deliveries to customers rose by 13.5% to 1,958,000 vehicles. Skoda continued to develop well. “Performance by the Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand is not satisfactory. Restructuring must continue at full speed. This is fundamental to an appropriate earnings level for the Volkswagen Group,” Hans Dieter Pötsch, Member of the Board of Management, Finance and Controlling, emphasized.
The Audi brand group continued its positive growth in the second quarter of 2006. At €722 million, its operating profit in the first six months exceeded the already high prior-year figure by 9.9%. Deliveries to customers rose by 8.3% to 691,000 units.
The upward trend in the commercial vehicles business continued. The Commercial Vehicles business line generated an operating profit of €85 million compared with €10 million the previous year. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles delivered 215,000 vehicles to customers, representing a year-on-year increase of 10.1%.
The Financial Services Division again made a major contribution to the Volkswagen Group’s operating result. Operating profit increased by 3.4% year-on-year to €486 million.
“In difficult world markets we have successfully increased sales revenue per vehicle while simultaneously keeping sales promotion costs per vehicle below the prior-year level,” Pötsch said. “We have the right sales strategy, and tailored financial services complement our range of attractive vehicles.”
Special items and the sale of Europcar affected the Group’s earnings in the first half of 2006. The company established provisions of €1.3 billion for the restructuring measures. Gains on the sale of gedas AG and Volkswagen Bordnetze GmbH amounting to €0.3 billion had a positive effect. The Group’s operating profit after special items was €1.0 billion (2005: €1.3 billion). After-tax gains from the sale of Europcar amounted to €0.8 billion and are reported as profit from discontinued operations. Consolidated profit after tax amounted to €1.2 billion (2005: €403 million).
“Despite the improvement, earnings and return on investment are still well below our medium-term targets,” Pötsch emphasized. “Global competitive pressure will continue to tighten, and high energy and commodity prices plus continuing unfavorable exchange rates will also impact the development of our business. 2006 is the year in which we must create the conditions for long-term competitiveness. 2006 is the year of restructuring.”
Looking to the full year, the Board of Management reiterated its forecast for increased deliveries to customers and a year-on-year improvement in operating profit before special items. The Automotive Division is expected to record a positive net cash flow and a further improvement in net liquidity compared with December 31, 2005.
The medium-term target remains a consolidated profit before tax of €5.1 billion in 2008. “Getting there will be difficult. We can secure the sustainable performance of our company with the continued success of our new model initiative, competitive costs and higher productivity,” Pischetsrieder said. “We will continue our ForMotionplus performance enhancement program and the systematic restructuring in order to reach our target.”
Posted by Lorenzo at 11:09 am
Text from Volkswagen AG.“Journeyman’s travels” program encourages job experience and a cosmopolitan approachWOLFSBURG, Germany - Volkswagen is encouraging international job experience and a cosmopolitan approach among its young employees with a new program.
From September 1, the company’s trained apprentices will have the opportunity to gain in-depth experience at the Group’s sites in other countries early on in their working life. The young people will work under the regular shift system at the respective plant and will also have the chance to participate in further training measures. The “journeyman’s travels” will cover an average of twelve months.
“In an age of global change, we need employees willing to broaden their horizon. They will become part of the top team which will lead the company to sustained economic success,” explained Dr. Horst Neumann, the Member of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG responsible for Human Resources. “Both sides profit from this program: Volkswagen gains further motivated employees with experience of working abroad, and each young person taking part in the program improves his or her development opportunities.”
“An international company needs a workforce with a cosmopolitan approach. Such an attitude does not come from a fortnight’s holiday,” emphasized Bernd Wehlauer, Deputy Chairman of the Group Works Council of Volkswagen AG. “That is why, in my capacity as a member of the European and Global Group Works Council, I am particularly pleased that we are able to offer young people an extensive program which I hope will prove very popular.”
Based on the journeyman principle, the program is directed at young, mobile trained apprentices of above-average performance and development potential with a maximum of five year’s job experience. Support includes training tailored to working abroad and the program also features language courses and sessions on countries and customs.
Once they have returned home, the “travelers” bring with them a new personal work perspective, profiting from their international experience. According to Neumann: “The ‘journeyman’s travels’ program brings benefits for both sides: Volkswagen gains motivated employees with experience of working abroad and the young people can develop within the company from the very start of their employment, building themselves an international network.”
Posted by Lorenzo at 6:32 pm
Text from Volkswagen of America.AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — Volkswagen of America, Inc. announced that it has named Keith Price public relations manager of product and technology.
In this position, Price is responsible for being the primary print, broadcast and digital media contact for Volkswagen brand product and technology information and communications. In addition, he will serve on the public relations and event management teams, with a primary objective of bolstering awareness for Volkswagen in automotive, business and general interest media sectors.
Prior to joining the Volkswagen team, Price served as director of sales and marketing for AutoWeek Magazine, where he was responsible for all national display, classified and Web revenue streams, the creation and leverage of strategic partnerships, development of new account acquisitions and management of all aspects of trade show promotions. Price has 25 years of publishing experience, with a primary focus on automotive enthusiast consumer magazines, and worked for such publications as Automobile Magazine, Outside Magazine, Entertainment Weekly and Field & Stream.
Price earned a Bachelor of Arts in business administration from Northwood University in Midland, Mich. He currently resides in Ferndale, Michigan and is the legislative chairman of the Adcraft Club of Detroit. A lifelong Volkswagen enthusiast, he currently owns eight Volkswagen vehicles, including a 1958 Standard Microbus.
Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Mich. 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 sells the Rabbit, New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, GTI, GLI, Jetta, Passat, Passat Wagon, Touareg and Phaeton through more than 600 independent U.S. dealers.
Posted by Lorenzo at 6:29 pm
Text and photos from Volkswagen AG.
WOLFSBURG, Germany - Today is a historic anniversary for Volkswagen as the company remembers the first Beetle deliveries: exactly 60 years ago the car dealers Gottfried Schultz in Essen and Raffay & Co. in Hamburg took delivery of nine Volkswagen saloons.
The Beetle's great market success began on a tiny scale: eight Volkswagen saloons were sent to the dealer Gottfried Schultz in Essen on 17 and 23 July 1946; one saloon was delivered to Hamburg-Altona where Raffay & Co. had their dealership on 22 July 1946. In the aftermath of the war with the economy dogged by shortages the beginning was more than difficult.
Between 1945 and 1949 the Volkswagen Company was in the trusteeship of the British military government who gave the badly damaged factory its first production order in August 1945 for 20 000 saloons. After completion of the first run of 55 vehicles in December 1945, the Volkswagen factory initially delivered vehicles exclusively to the allied authorities. The British "Highway and Highway Transport Branch’ appointed the company Gottfried Schultz in Essen as "Main Distributor for the "North Rhine Province" on 11 June 1946; Raffay & Co. received the same function for the Hanseatic City of Hamburg.
In October 1946 the British military government approved the setting up of a dealer organisation in their zone of occupation. This initially comprised 10 main distributors and 28 dealerships. As demand grew rapidly following the currency reform, the organisation was expanded and by 1 January 1949 in the western zones of Germany customers were being served by 16 general agents, 31 wholesalers, 103 dealerships and 812 authorised workshops. Sales in Germany were running at 38 666 Volkswagen saloons.
Today the 2 500 Volkswagen dealerships and service workshops constitute a dense network forming the most important point of contact between the customer and the manufacturer. In 2005 more than 644 000 Volkswagen passenger cars and commercial vehicles were delivered in Germany. Gottfried-Schultz Group and Raffay are still among the largest Volkswagen dealerships in Germany today.
Posted by Lorenzo at 11:56 am
Volkswagen must clearly feel that the Touareg and Phaeton are lonely at the top.
Auto Motor und Sport has reported that Volkswagen has given an upmarket crossover vehicle the green light for production and will be built to battle it out with the Mercedes-Benz R-Class. This new model, tentatively called the 'Station', is set to debut in 2009. The seven seater will share key components with the second generation Phaeton and Touareg, both coming in 2010, and will be positioned between the two. The Station is part of an upmarket product offensive by Volkswagen Brand chairman Wolfgang Bernhard.
Details about engine offerings are vague at best however the Station will be offered with V6 and V8 engines. The Station will also feature Volkswagen's new common rail diesel technology, which in 2008 will replace Volkswagen's Pumpe Duse diesel technology currently used in TDI engines. The Station could also be offered with an uprated version of the GTI's 2.0T engine. The Station is also likely to be offered in two- and all-wheel drive versions.
Posted by Lorenzo at 11:46 am
Text and photo from Volkswagen AG.
WOLFSBURG, Germany - Volkswagen will call its new compact SUV Tiguan.
Not only the vehicle, but also the decision on the name is a brave journey into new terrain: the name was chosen by the readers of the AutoBild group. More than 350,000 votes were made from ten countries. The clear winner was Tiguan. The Touareg's little brother is to be produced in Wolfsburg and will be launched in 2008.
Dr Wolfgang Bernhard, the chairman of the board of management for the Volkswagen brand said, "This unique event is demonstrative of how Volkswagen is opening up: we made a clear appeal to the market - potential buyers could help choose the name Tiguan. The positive reaction shows that this is the right approach."
The name Tiguan was developed by Volkswagen Marketing along with four other alternatives Nanuk, Namib, Rockton and Samun. The readers of the AutoBild group selected their favourite from these five potential names. The response was astonishing: more than 350,000 readers voted. A clear majority voted for Tiguan.
The Tiguan represents the transfer of the globally successful Touareg philosophy to the class of the compact SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle), a segment which has grown considerably in the last few years. Travel, adventure and excitement are associated with the exotic sounding name. That suits the bill perfectly: thanks to its concept based on driving dynamics and high comfort levels, the Tiguan is suited to urban environments as well as rough terrain far from normal roads and thus provides the driver with absolute freedom. A first glimpse of the new Volkswagen SUV was provided by the off-road design study Concept A at the beginning of 2006.
Posted by Lorenzo at 12:10 am
Photo is artist's rendering from Autobild.
Volkswagen yesterday officially announced that their new compact SUV will be named the 'Tiguan'. The name was chosen by readers of Germany's Autobild Magazine after
Volkswagen asked them to choose from five different names and vote for one that will become the SUV's name. Tiguan came out the winner beating out such choices as 'Rockton', 'Namib', 'Nanuk', and 'Samun'. Details for Volkswagen's new off-roader are sketchy however it is expected to be introduced at the 2007 Frankfurt Auto Show next September and can be had for about €26,000.
Autobild suggests that the Tiguan will be offered with a 1.4L 150 hp TSI motor and two versions of the 2.0L TFSI engine. One version would produce 170 hp and the other would produce 200 hp. As well, two versions of the same 2.0L TDI engine offered would produce 140 hp and 170 hp. Autobild also says that the Tiguan may be offered in both front- and 4Motion all-wheel drive. The Tiguan will be built in Germany, a move made by Volkswagen after German labour unions fought to keep production there.
Although no official photos or spyshots have surfaced, many suspect that a good indication of the Tiguan's exterior can be seen in the lines of the Concept A, which Volkswagen showed to the public earlier this year in the Geneva Auto Show. The Tiguan may share many of the Concept A's styling cues such as the daring front. The suicide doors, the lack of a B-pillar, and the whole interior will definitely not make production.
Speculation is that the Tiguan is a combination of the words 'Tiger' and 'Iguana'. Whatever that says about the car, I don't know but when people hear the name, certain references to Napoleon Dynamite will no doubt be drawn.
Posted by Lorenzo at 11:35 am
Text from Volkswagen AG.Europe’s most economical five-seater: The new Polo BlueMotion
Polo BlueMotion consumes just 3.9 liters per 100 km and is still fast at 176 km/h
BlueMotion is the name given to activities that promote a sustainability approachWolfsburg, 17 July 2006 - The new Polo BlueMotion is the most economical car of its class in Europe. Average fuel consumption of the 5-seater: 3.9 liter/100 km. On the highway it consumes just 3.2 liter. Either way: With fuel consumption of under 4.0 liter per 100 km this Volkswagen saves cash at the fuel pump: 100 kilometers of driving costs on average 4.45 Euro*. And: Its 45 liter fuel tank capacity combined with 3.9 liters per 100 kilometers yields a theoretical driving range of greater than 1,150 kilometers. And that is why it still holds true that the Polo BlueMotion drives and drives and drives…
Dynamic economizer: Polo BlueMotion is fast at 176 km/h
- The Polo BlueMotion makes a powerful impression in spite of its exceptionally economical and environmental talents: Its 59 kW / 80 hp direct injection turbodiesel engine with particulate filter delivers a powerful torque of 195 Newton-Meter at a low 1,800 rpm. So equipped the Polo BlueMotion enables an agile driving style when needed. If the full dynamic potential of the three-cylinder TDI is required, the engine can accelerate the light 1,084 kilogram Polo to 100 km/h in just 12.8 seconds; if necessary the rpm-friendly TDI can make the Volkswagen go 176 km/h. This extraordinary combination of agility and economy was achieved by aerodynamic refinements and a highly efficient engine.
Attractive saver: Wide array of standard equipment, attractive financing
- With its realistically set base price and a high value retention that is typical of the model series, the new Polo BlueMotion is an economically well-balanced choice. Relative to the comparable Trendline version the fast economizer has standard features such as 14-inch alloy wheels, attached components all around the vehicle painted in the car color, an aerodynamically optimized front end, rearspoiler, sporty seats in new "Popcorn" or "Select" pattern and a multifunctional display that can be used to call up information such as the excellent fuel economy figures. Also of economical interest are its financing options. In Germany, for example, Volkswagen is offering a so-called AutoCredit for the Polo BlueMotion at a 0.9 % effective interest rate.
BlueMotion is now a program: Volkswagen starts sustainability initiative
- Volkswagen is using the introduction of what is now the most economical model in its car lineup to start the BlueMotion sustainability initiative. And this initiative not only applies to the car, or its fuel economy and emissions, rather it applies to the entire company. "Blue", the VW color, stands for the elements to be protected: Water and air. "Motion" embodies the aspect of forward-looking mobility. The goal is to protect the Earth’s resources for future generations. The objective is to make BlueMotion a seal of quality in Volkswagen products, a benchmark for the most economical variant of a car model series. The new Polo BlueMotion is paving the way.
BlueMotion signals: Economy and driving fun
- BlueMotion also demonstrates that economy need not be achieved at the cost of driving fun. Today Volkswagen is already meeting this challenge with its TDI, FSI and TSI engines. Technically speaking the potential of these engines has hardly been exhausted. In the mid-term they will intermingle to create new engine concepts. An example is the CCS: The CCS hybrid combustion process, an engine and fuel system combining the advantages of both the diesel and gasoline engine worlds, will over the next decade enable the use of synthetic fuels that will replace conventional diesel and gasoline engines. BlueMotion at its best.
*= 3.9 liter/100 km x 1.14 €/liter diesel in Germany, based on prices at the end of June 2006
Note:
All data and equipment cited in this press release are valid for car models offered in Germany. They may differ in other countries. All information is subject to change or correction.
The terms TDI, FSI and TSI are registered trademarks of Volkswagen AG or other companies of the Volkswagen Group in Germany.
Posted by Lorenzo at 8:46 pm
Text from 4Car News.Volkswagen has developed a new Polo GTI Cup Edition, based on the ADAC Volkswagen Polo Cup racing car, to go on sale next year.
It will come with a 180bhp version of the 1.8-litre turbocharged engine, 30bhp more powerful than the unit used in the current Polo GTI; this means 0-60mph in 7.5 seconds and a top speed of 140mph.
The Polo GTI Cup Edition will also receive additions to its body kit, including a roof spoiler, front and rear side skirts lifted from the ADAC racer, four-spoke 17" alloys and an interior featuring Interlagos sports seats. There are three exterior colours - Metallic Reflex Silver, Flash Red and Black Magic Pearl Effect.
There are, unfortunately, no plans at present to bring the Polo GTI Cup to the UK, so Brit hot hatch enthusiasts will have to find enough pounds to exchange into €22,425 if they want a left-hand drive example.
Volkswagen has also confirmed that next year will see the introduction of the Passat R36. Although details haven't yet been released, we understand that its 3.6-litre V6 engine will generate around 300bhp. We can also expect lowered, stiffened suspension, the DSG direct-shift gearbox and a uniquely-trimmed exterior and cabin for the full sporting effect; Volkswagen's 4Motion four-wheel drive system is also likely. Estate versions as well as saloons are probable.
Sales for this model will start in the first half of 2007. Volkswagen hasn't yet confirmed prices or RHD availability, but it could come in over the £30,000 mark.
Posted by Lorenzo at 8:41 pm
Text from Volkswagen AG.WOLFSBURG / BERLIN, Germany - Volkswagen AG has joined the Clean Energy Partnership. The world’s most versatile hydrogen demonstration project for emission-free mobility with two service stations in Berlin thus welcomes a further partner and now includes 11 companies and 17 hydrogen vehicles.
With immediate effect, Volkswagen AG has joined the Clean Energy Partnership (CEP). “For us, joining the CEP is a logical and important step towards the future. Our commitment further underlines our support for sustainable mobility and, at the same time, provides us with important application-related information from the demonstration project.” said Prof. Dr. Jürgen Leohold, Head of Group Research at Volkswagen AG. Volkswagen is conducting intensive research into hydrogen and fuel cells in the context of its fuel and power train strategy.
Volkswagen brings a VW Touran HyMotion to the CEP passenger car fleet. The vehicle was developed at the Volkswagen Technology Center in Isenbüttel and initially underwent intensive practical testing in the USA. The tests in Berlin represent the vehicle’s premiere in Germany.
“We expressly welcome the decision by Volkswagen AG to join the Clean Energy Partnership. Together with the recent participation of TOTAL, this confirms that CEP is on track for becoming the most significant European project for hydrogen-based mobility. We look forward to cooperating with a total of five automakers and welcome the further expansion of CEP’s competence in the field of hydrogen as the fuel of the future” said Dr. Klaus Bonhoff (DaimlerChrysler), Head of CEP’s Steering Committee.
The Federal Ministry of Transport, Building and Urban Affairs also expressly welcomed the commitment of a further automaker to CEP. CEP is a component of the national sustainability program and is sponsored by the Ministry as one of the leading innovation projects for emission-free mobility. With its versatility, CEP also creates the optimum basis for the lighthouse projects planned under the “National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technology Innovation Program”.
The Clean Energy Partnership
Since November 2004, the opening date for the first CEP hydrogen service station at the Messedamm in Berlin, the CEP demonstration project has been carrying out sophisticated everyday operations without problems. A great deal of progress has been made since then. The experience of customers, technicians and operators will be evaluated in 2007 and presented to the public.
The Clean Energy Partnership (CEP) is an international association of the following companies: Aral/BP, BMW, Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe (BVG), DaimlerChrysler, Ford, GM/Opel, Hydro, Linde, TOTAL, Vattenfall Europe and Volkswagen AG. Its goal is to tap the technological potential of hydrogen as a source of energy, conducting tests with a view to suitability for routine use and system capability. The Clean Energy Partnership initially runs until December 2007.
Other links: www.volkswagen-nachhaltigkeit.de; www.volkswagen-umwelt.de
Posted by Lorenzo at 8:33 pm
Text from Volkswagen AG.Buyers lean towards white finishes and special-effect variants
A wide-ranging spectrum of more than 360 colour nuancesWOLFSBURG, Germany - Volkswagen customers can choose from a huge spectrum of more than 360 colour finishes and variants. And it is easy to spot new colour trends. Alongside classically favoured black, new shades of silver are now setting the scene on the market, while design enthusiasts are opting for trendy Candy White.
In recent years, Reflex Silver Metallic and Pearlescent Black Magic were the most popular choices of finish for the Polo, Golf, Passat and Co. But Volkswagen offers a spectacular range of finishes for all its vehicles, from the Fox to the Phaeton. Its offering includes a total of 63 series finishes as well as some 300 special finishes, including Broom-Flower Yellow, Rape-Field Yellow or Sulphur Yellow, to name just some of the variants. One colour finish that has been around since the days of air-cooled engines is classic Black (order code “A1 A1”, finish no. “O 41”) – an immortal choice.
The forecast is for a greater demand to develop in future for variations on silver and special-effect variants such as the heliochrome finishes offered in the Phaeton programme. And that means the new Polo BlueMotion caters ideally to the current trend, with Volkswagen’s new Ice Age metallic finish, a variation on silver in light green/turquoise, premiered on this model.
Another trend is already foreseeable: For some months now, a growing number of customers has ordered the Golf GTI in one particular finish, in white. In contrast to red or black, the traditional GTI colours, Candy White gives the Golf GTI a particularly sporty-cum-elegant look and one rich in contrast. The colour favoured by purists and design enthusiasts, white radiates puristic elegance and clarity.
In search of new colour trends, Volkswagen designers direct their observations to a variety of sources: fashion shows in Paris, furniture fairs in Italy or the designs produced by star architects from around the globe. Historical factors come into play as well – they actually led to the pastel tones used on the New Beetle, for example.
The names given to the different finishes are derived from all sorts of sources. Inspired by trade terms used in art, geography, astronomy or music, the colour designers have coined vehicle finishes such as Harvest Moon Beige (New Beetle Cabrio), Tossa Blue (Polo) or Mazeppa Grey metallic (Phaeton). These descriptors are then applied to a spectrum of five variants. Solid tones are the basic finishes in the palette. The Golf is available in the solid finishes Candy White, Pearl Blue and Black, among others. Metallic finishes create a slight shimmer from light to dark. Buyers of the Polo, for example, can choose from a range of six metallic finishes. Brilliance is the effect of a pearlescent finish which gives off an iridescent switch between two colours – black and grey, say. In the case of the Passat, Mocha Charcoal-Grey is a colour offering available exclusively to that car. So-called heliochrome finishes, which give off three different colours, depending on the angle of view, make for a particularly unique look. A blend of three heliochrome colours is available exclusively for the Phaeton. The fifth variant likewise exclusive to the Phaeton is Shiny Black, with a special polish, combined with an extra coat of clear lacquer, creating a spectacularly reflective surface.
There has even been a two-tone finish available ex-works, namely for the New Beetle Domingo, which sported a combination of Solid Black and Pearlescent Winter Red. Since the autumn of 2004, 247 of these rare special-edition models have been registered in Germany. A rarer sight still is the special-edition Golf Speed, with its exclusive finish in Arancio Borealis or Giallo Midas normally used by Lamborghini, a VW Group subsidiary. A strictly limited number of only 100 of these vehicles was produced in each of the two finishes.
Posted by Lorenzo at 4:35 pm
Text from Volkswagen of America.AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – This summer, in addition to superheroes at the box office, the Smithsonian will display an SUV with amazing abilities that has accomplished an extraordinary feat: without any human assistance, it is able to drive itself.
Stanley, the robotic Volkswagen Touareg that brought home the $2 million prize at the DARPA Grand Challenge in October, will be featured in the Robotics Collection of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History through the summer. Stanley defeated 22 other unmanned vehicles in a rigorous, 132-mile championship race over rough desert roads, mountain trails, dry lake beds and tunnels, using only onboard sensors and navigation equipment.
The DARPA Grand Challenge is an annual competition and a field test intended to accelerate research and development in autonomous ground vehicles. Stanley performed flawlessly over the 132-mile Nevada course and achieved victory after six hours 54 minutes. Nearly 200 vehicles from around the world originally entered the competition. A series of semifinal competitions narrowed the final field to 23, including Stanley.
Stanley’s performance is even greater when compared to the previous year’s Grand Challenge: In 2004, no vehicle completed the route or lasted longer than seven miles.
Stanford University, with the technological support and innovations of the Volkswagen Electronics Research Laboratory (ERL), transformed the Touareg to drive itself without human assistance. Stanley is built from a stock, diesel-powered Volkswagen Touareg R5 modified with full-body skid plates and a reinforced front bumper. It is actuated by a drive-by-wire system developed by the ERL. All processing takes place on 6 Pentium M computers and measurements are incorporated from GPS, a 6DOF inertial measurement unit, and wheel speed for pose estimation.
“This was the first time in history that a robot was able to accomplish such a long autonomous drive at such high speeds. It’s a major step toward "smarter" vehicles,” said Dr. Carlo Rummel, ERL executive director. “The technology we used in Stanley leads to safer cars for our drivers, because the car is aware of the surroundings and can better react to the driver’s commands.”
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 sells the Rabbit, New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, Jetta, GTI, GLI, Passat, Passat Wagon, Touareg and Phaeton through more than 600 independent U.S. dealers.
Posted by Lorenzo at 1:46 pm
Text from Volkswagen of America.AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – Volkswagen of America, Inc., today announced brand sales through June were up 20 percent over the same time period last year, supporting the company’s overall solid sales and marketing performance for the first half of the year.
Strong January through June sales of the all-new Jetta, Passat and GTI, and the restyled New Beetle contributed to Volkswagen’s favorable showing. The all-new 2006 Jetta sedan grew its sales volume by 37.9 percent over the same period last year and the award-winning, newly redesigned Passat showed a 70 percent increase. The all-new GTI and New Beetle coupe also contributed to Volkswagen’s strong performance, with sales up 51.5 percent and 30.8 percent, respectively.
Growth in Volkswagen vehicle sales during the first half of 2006 reflect product success, and a positive comparison with 2005 when volumes were lower due to transitions in the model range. As volume gained momentum in the latter half of 2005, with launching new models increasing showroom traffic, Volkswagen anticipates double digit year-over-year growth when year end sales are tallied.
“Volkswagen of America is in a process of change, a clear path forward – milestoned in product development. It’s about finding the balance between the affordable entry level and the aspirational,” said Executive Vice President Adrian Hallmark.
Volkwagen is revitalizing its sales and marketing strategy by renewing its focus on a value-added entry- and mid-level vehicle selection, led by the return of the Rabbit and the launch of the Passat wagon, GTI and the segment-redefining Eos.
“With the return of the legendary Rabbit, it’s now more affordable than ever to experience Volkswagen’s precision German engineering,” Hallmark said. “And the $27,990 base price of the Eos breaks the barriers to entry in the hardtop convertible segment. Today, more than ever, Volkswagen’s product lineup is true to its definition as a ‘people’s car’.”
Industry studies validate Volkswagen’s momentum, honoring the brand for its leading- edge safety and design and overall value and satisfaction. The 2006 Passat recently earned a “Double Best Pick” designation for outstanding performance in front and side tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, and earned the top rating in every individual measurement category (head protection, injuries and structural design) for both the side impact and frontal tests. The Passat also ranked top in its class in AutoPacific’s Vehicle Satisfaction Awards, in which owners credit the car’s interior design, use of high touch materials and European driving dynamics as contributing factors in their overall satisfaction. Additionally, Kelley Blue Book named the Passat among the top ten best redesigned cars for 2006.
The highly acclaimed all-new GTI earned the distinction “Top Sporty Car Under $25,000” by Consumer Reports, and the Jetta and Touareg are both recognized as “Best Buys” by Consumers Digest. The 2006 Jetta and Rabbit were named a “Top Safety Pick” by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Just recently, Strategic Vision, Inc. released the findings of its 2006 Total Quality Study, in which it noted that Volkswagen showed the most improvement in quality over last year, and named Volkswagen the “Best Full-Line Corporation” for quality standards. In addition, Volkswagen’s new look is resonating with buyers. Of the 37 brands featured in the J.D. Power and Associates’ 2006 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study, Volkswagen is the most improved, jumping to fourteenth from twenty-ninth in last year’s study. The 11th annual APEAL study, measures “owner delight” with the design, content, layout and performance of their recently acquired vehicles.
Volkswagen remains committed to introducing technological advancements that move the industry forward. Volkswagen is the leading seller of diesel powered passenger cars in the U.S., with diesel models accounting for 14.9 percent of total year-to-date sales.
In another industry-leading innovation, the highly refined Touareg’s new engines offer exceptional torque and brute power. The standard V6 engine provides 240 horsepower at 6,000 revolutions per minute and an impressive 229 lbs-ft of pulling power at 3,200 rpm. The enhanced V8 engine provides 310 hp at 6,200 rpm and 302 lbs-ft at 3,000 rpm, while the clean diesel V10 TDI provides 310 hp at 3,750 rpm and 553 lbs-ft at 2,000 rpm. The use of clean diesel fuel reduces emissions of sulfur compounds and allows for the use of advanced emission control systems. The 2006 Touareg V10 TDI is compliant in all fifty states, and is the first light duty vehicle in the U.S. to include a particulate filter that further reduces emissions, while consuming up to 30 percent less fuel than traditional gasoline engines. Earlier this month, three Touareg V10 TDI vehicles participated in the 84th running of the Pikes Peak Invitational Hill Climb. Except for required safety devices and tires, the vehicles were completely stock and unmodified. Finishing 1-2-3 in the Luxury SUV exhibition class, the Touareg team posted a best time of 14:08 besting many purpose-built race vehicles.
Earlier this year, at the North American International Auto Show, Volkswagen signed an agreement with DaimlerChrysler's Chrysler Group to develop and produce a new van for the North American market. The minivan will be presented under the Volkswagen brand, allowing the company to reach a new segment of the market.
To complement its reinvigorated product lineup, Volkswagen kicked off the year partnering with Miami-based advertising agency Crispin Porter + Bogusky. The all-new GTI launch was the first campaign from the new agency partnership, encouraging consumers to ‘make friends with their FAST’ and introduced Wolfgang and Helga –– the German engineers who encouraged drivers of competitive pimped out brands to “un-pimp your auto” and discover the joys of the GTI that’s “pre-tuned in Deutschland”. Volkswagen’s advertising has generated sales results, consumer enthusiasm –– and awards –– for the brand. At the recent Cannes Lions International Advertising Festival, Volkswagen was honored for its creative excellence and took home four prestigious awards in the sales/promotion and cyber categories. Following the February GTI launch, other well publicized campaigns for the Jetta, Passat and all-new Rabbit followed during the first six months of the year.
Understanding that Volkswagen is more than a car – it’s a way of life – Volkswagen has appointed MWW Group as its lifestyle and entertainment public relations agency of record. Involvement in key social and entertainment venues such as the Bonnaroo Music Festival, the Teva Mountain Games and the Sundance Film Festival reinforce Volkswagen’s commitment to emerging artists, and the active lifestyles of its owners.
Volkswagen has maintained a significant presence at owner gatherings, covering a diverse spectrum of events, from the eighth annual national gathering of New Beetle fanatics in Roswell, New Mexico to hosting the Michigan Volkswagen Enthusiasts’ “MotorStadt” in our Auburn Hills, Michigan employee parking lot.
“Volkswagen is a brand with deep connections to its customers,” explained Hallmark. “We’re playing on the momentum of the first half of the year, and the enthusiasm of our customers, as we continue to rev up our product offerings.”
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 sells the Rabbit, New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, Jetta, GTI, GLI, Passat, Passat Wagon, Touareg and Phaeton through more than 600 independent U.S. dealers.
Posted by Lorenzo at 11:41 pm
Text from AFX News via Forbes.BONN, Germany (AFX) - The German Cartel Office said it has cleared Porsche AG's increasing its stake in Volkswagen AG to 25.1 pct from 19 pct.
Cartel Office President Ulf Boege said he does not oppose the tie-up between the two companies because the overlaps are only in areas of sports cars and SUV vehicles.
In these areas, the office said, the two will not have any dominant market position and their positions will not be boosted at all.
Posted by Lorenzo at 4:17 pm
Text and photo from Volkswagen of America.
PIKES PEAK, Colo. – Mark Miller, driving a 2006 Volkswagen Touareg V10 TDI, conquered the treacherous 12.4-mile course at the 84th running of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. Miller finished the Race to the Clouds in 14 minutes 8 seconds, followed by teammates Ryan Arciero and Danny Sullivan.
The three Touareg V10 TDIs were the first vehicles to use ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) in the Race to the Clouds. This clean diesel fuel reduces emissions of sulfur compounds and allows for the use of advanced emission control systems. The Touareg also is the first light duty vehicle in the U.S. to include a particulate filter that further reduces emissions. The 2006 Touareg’s diesel engine is compliant in all 50 states and consumes up to 30 percent less fuel than traditional gasoline engines.
“The Touaregs, which were basically showroom stock vehicles, were faster than many of the purpose built race cars. For a vehicle with minimal modifications to cover all 12.4 miles, 156 turns at altitudes up to 14,000 feet in just over 14 minutes is remarkable,” said Miller. “The power of the twin-turbo V10 TDI diesel engine was really phenomenal.”
The Touareg V10 TDI is a high-performance, diesel version of Volkswagen’s popular luxury SUV. Its powerful five-liter, 10-cylinder engine boasts 310 horsepower at 3,750 revolutions per minute and offers impressive pulling power with 553 lbs-ft of torque at 2,000 rpm.
“It was my first time competing at the legendary Pikes Peak race, and to team up with Volkswagen made it even more special,” said Arciero. “I really had no idea how competitive we could be in an essentially stock Touareg, but after the first practice runs it was clear that we were going to be quick. That each of us on the Volkswagen team finished in the 14 minute range is a true testament to the overall quality and performance of the vehicle.”
Modifications to the Touareg were made primarily to comply with the safety regulations imposed by the Pikes Peak Race Officials. A roll cage, fire extinguisher, special driver’s seat and a five-point racing seatbelt harness were fitted into the interior. Exterior graphics and a set of Nitto Terra Grappler tires were the only other additions to the vehicle.
“The combination of the powerful engine and the new ULSD fuel was a tremendous asset during this race,” Sullivan said. “Not only was the performance and handling great, but the Touareg was by far the most luxurious and quietest vehicle in the race.”
The 2006 Touareg V10 TDI will go on sale September 1 with a base price of $67,750.
Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Mich. 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 sells the Rabbit, New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, GTI, GLI, Jetta, Passat, Passat Wagon, Touareg and Phaeton through more than 600 independent U.S. dealers.
Posted by Lorenzo at 2:34 pm
Text from CNW Group.AJAX, ON, July 5 /CNW/ - Volkswagen Canada sales totalled 2,924 new units for June 2006, compared with 2,866 units in June 2005. There has also been an increase in YTD sales from 13,993 in June of 2005 to 15,438 in June of 2006, a jump of over 10%.
The monthly total is comprised of:
155 Golfs
507 Rabbits
115 GTIs
226 New Beetles
1,524 Jettas
207 Passats
79 Touaregs
2 Phaetons
In its introductory month, 507 Rabbits were sold. We are pleased with this result and we look forward to continued success with the Rabbit. New Beetle sales have also risen sharply since June of 2005 with the combined increase of the coupe and the convertible by 61.4%. Finally, we are pleased to report a 12.9% increase in Touareg sales for June 2006 compared with to the same period last year.
June 2005 Sales
Posted by Lorenzo at 1:33 pm
Text from 4Car News.Volkswagen has decided not to build the three-wheeled GX3 because of concerns about the potential for lawsuits in the US resulting from the vehicle's design.
'With regret, we have concluded that the current and foreseen product liability issues at this time were just too great,' said Adrian Hallmark, Volkswagen's US chief.
Volkswagen intended to introduce the two-seat vehicle - which is equipped with two wheels in the front, weighs 1,300lbs (590kg) and has no roof - as early as next year.
Wolfgang Bernhard, head of the Volkswagen brand, had hoped the car would help boost sales in the US, which had fallen 37% between 2002 and 2005 before reviving this year. He hailed the vehicle at the Los Angeles Motor Show in January as 'the first breath of fresh air' for VW in the US.
The GX3 was the first major product to come out of Volkswagen's Project Moonraker programme, which sends German engineering, design and marketing employees in their 20s and early 30s to live in the US to get a better idea of what American customers want.
Hallmark said that, since showing the GX3 in Los Angeles, Volkswagen had received 'overwhelming' customer responses in favour of the model and spent several months 'exhaustively evaluating' limited production of the vehicle.
'It would not have been possible for us to build the GX3 with the purity that it required, at the price which prospective customers told us they would be willing to pay,' Hallmark said. 'Rather than offering a product which deviated from such a basic, honest and original concept, Volkswagen has concluded that, regrettably, production will not be possible.'
Volkswagen had planned for the GX3, which could be operated with a motorcycle licence, to fill a niche within the market for an affordable second car for use during good weather. Sales of the vehicle would have focused on warm areas within the US, in particular California.
Posted by Lorenzo at 1:26 pm
Text from the Daily Mirror.The Daily Mail has reported that German car giants Volkswagen [compare Volkswagen prices] has turned fantasy into reality unveiling a fully automatic car that can drive itself - at speeds of up to 150mph.
The remarkable vehicle is the VW Golf GTI ´53 plus 1´ - a codename which refers to the number 53 that Herbie, the famous VW Lovebug carried when racing in his Hollywood adventures.
Using electronic eyes using radar and laser sensors in the grille to ´read´ the road and send the details back to its computer brain. A sat-nav system can track it´s exact position and the car can then work out all the bends and twists it has to get through before setting off.
On the race circuit, the VW Golf GTi ´53 plus 1´ drove itself faster and more precisely than the VW engineers did, and accelerated independently up to 150mph.
To prove this is a real development, VW invited guests to a test track near their world headquarters in Wolfsburg in northern Germany and asked them to design for themselves a variety of different courses, using road cones. They then watched the car navigate around them - on its own.
Until now the fully self driving car has been the stuff of fantasy. Many people will remember watching the Herbie films and Knight Rider in awe, seeing the Love Bug and K.I.T, the cars that drove themelves, wondering if such a vehicle would ever exist.
Anything is possible - the commercialisation of the self driving car is not such an unlikely prospect as it once was and you can be sure that many of the elements which make up the engine will be finding their way into car showrooms within a few years - jut like sat nav and anti-lock brakes have done in recent years. So watch this space.
Posted by Lorenzo at 1:16 pm
Text from Volkswagen of America.AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – July 3, 2006 - Volkswagen of America, Inc. today report June 2006 sales of 20,121, a 5.5 percent increase over prior year sales of 19,071. Year-to-date sales show an overall increase of 20.0 percent (116,045 for 2006, as compared to 96,704 for the first half of 2005).
Volkswagen’s mid-sized sedan, the Passat, continues to gain momentum – up a phenomenal 132.1 percent versus last year. New Beetle Coupe sales continue to surge, posting a 36.3 percent increase over June of last year.
Rabbit sales hopped off to a fast start with 831 retail deliveries for June, with the vehicle officially launching on Saturday, June 24.
For the first half of 2006, sales of diesel engine vehicles accounted for 14.9 percent of total Volkswagen brand sales, maintaining our diesel passenger car sales leadership.
Shown below is the sales breakdown of models for the Volkswagen brand in June and year-to-date 2006.
June 2005 Sales
Posted by Lorenzo at 12:41 pm
Text from Volkswagen of America.AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – Volkswagen of America, Inc., is gearing up to sponsor Waterfestâ 12, North America’s largest annual Volkswagen Car Show and Motorsport event. More than 20,000 Volkswagen enthusiasts, including 2,500 registered participants, will trek to Englishtown, New Jersey’s Raceway Park on July 15 and 16 to compete in an array of events and take part in numerous Volkswagen promotions.
Waterfest activities will begin at noon on Saturday and continue until 5 p.m. on Sunday. Unique competitions reward participants for the magnitude of their speakers, their ability to perform tire burnouts, their car’s speed on a quarter-mile track and other performance tasks.
As part of the annual event, Volkswagen will be on hand to indulge its enthusiasts with giveaways, demonstrations and special guests. Attendees will be given the chance to navigate a test track behind the wheel of a Volkswagen Eos or Rabbit with professional drivers; meet Helga, the star of Volkswagen’s “Un-Pimp your auto” commercials; visit the Volkswagen Garage, featuring slot car races and a life-size fast; perfect their German with German lessons; and receive free Volkswagen prizes, including VIN dog tags and hubcap frisbees. The interactive VW Carfessional will also be available for attendees to record their feedback and opinions, to be provided exclusively to Volkswagen of America.
“Volkswagen is extremely lucky to have such loyal followers,” said Joe Barbera, owner marketing manager. “Our customers and fans are what make this brand so special. We’re thrilled to be a part of Waterfest this year.”
VW merchandise will be available at Waterfest, including t-shirts, fast juniors and commemorative chains, which are available exclusively at VW-sponsored events. Product specialists will be present to answer questions about all VW models and a representative from Sit Safe will provide child passenger safety tips to attendees.
Admission prices for Waterfest are $15 for adults on Saturday, $20 for adults on Sunday and $5 for children ages 6 – 11, with children 5 and under receiving free admission. For more information, visit www.waterfest.net.
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 sells the Rabbit, New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, Jetta, GTI, GLI, Passat, Passat Wagon, Touareg and Phaeton through more than 600 independent U.S. dealers.
