R-Line Tiguan to bow at Essen

Volkswagen will be debuting the new R-Line package for the Tiguan during Europe's SEMA, the Essen Motor Show. Not a lot is known about the R-Line Tiguan, except for what three images reveal (bodykit, and "R" badging inside). We should know more when Essen kicks off on Friday.

In the meantime, there are two more images after the jump.

Source: Carscoop

Volkswagen AG to develop four all-new architectures

Volkswagen AG is a very big company. Largest in Europe and fourth in the world. That means a lot of parts bin and platform sharing goes on within the company in order to reduce costs and development time. So, to prepare for Volkswagen's entry into the next decade, where Volkswagen (the brand) plans to beat out Toyota for the top, the company is developing four all-new architectures to base new vehicles upon.

The first one is called the MQB and will be used for VAG's core models (from Fox to Passat, Audi TT and A3, and some Skodas and SEATs). Volkswagen expects that MQB will account for over 6 million vehicles a year worldwide once it's fully utilized by 2018. This architecture will cut costs up to 40% and development times by up to a year.

The MHB platform will be used for rear-engined minicars such as the up! concept already unveiled during the last three auto shows. The MLB platform, a longitudinal engine architecture, is already being used in the new A4 and A5.

The last platform is one for mid-engined cars that would be used for cars like the Audi R8 and Lamborghini Gallardo. This platform may also be used for a new, more affordable (as compared to a Veyron, that is) Bugatti that may already be in the development stages.

Source: German Car Blog

Volkswagen and Proton playing hard-to-get with each other

It appears Volkswagen and Proton has once again broken talks with each other. We're not sure if this is really the end between the two parties. This certainly isn't the first time Volkswagen and Proton have haulted talks with each other. No reason was given for their actions but certainly, they're not talking.

The press release, however, does not explicitly say that Volkswagen will not be pursuing Proton , only that they have decided to "shelve their joint talks...for the time being". That means its not completely done, yet.

So the saga continues between the two. When will it end? Or maybe it has...

Press release after the jump.

Source: Volkswagen

Wolfsburg, 20 November 2007 - Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft and the Malaysian government have decided to shelve their joint talks concerning cooperation with or participation in the Malaysian automaker Proton Holdings Bhd for the time being. As a consequence, there is at present no foundation for a more in-depth investigation.

Irrespective of this decision, Volkswagen will be stepping up its efforts to review other possibilities for actively engaging in the ASEAN region and further intensifying its sales activities in the region, including such activities in Malaysia. The company remains committed to its plans to establish a sustainable and successful production and sales basis in the South East Asia region.

Scirocco's fate in US officially confirmed -- It's not looking good

The fate of the Scirocco in the US has been uncertain to say the least. Though it hasn't been ruled out, it's also not written in stone. When you get conflicting statements from Volkswagen, it's really hard to say what's what. First, then Volkswagen of America head Adrian Hallmark called the idea of the Scirocco in the US "crazy" earlier this year. Those comments were then followed a few days later by Martin Winterkorn's own, saying that the decision rests on him alone.

Now, Hallmark's successor, Stephan Jacoby, seems to be singing the same tune. He has revealed in a Car and Driver interview that there is simply no room in the market, what with the GTI and R32 already doing what the Scirocco would have done in the market segment. Jacoby instead said that Volkswagen of America should focus more on core products adding "we can't have everything".

I hope Winterkorn chimes in again with his own opinions about the matter. However, given the current situation with the relationship between Wolfsburg and Herndon (that is, Wolfsburg giving Volkswagen of America more freedom in choosing the models to bring over), Winterkorn may not have much say in the matter anymore.

So, the Scirocco is now off the table completely for North America. Europe will get to see it middle of next year.

Source: Car and Driver via Autoblog

Shanghai VW upgrades the Santana 3000 for 2008 - 1st Pics

Here are photos which have been obtained by chinacartimes of the 2008 Shanghai Volkswagen Santana 3000 which possibly will be called Santana 4000 for 2008.




As we can see front the pictures the Santana 4000 will get rid of the pronounced V-grill VW grill in favour of a 2008MY Canadian City Golf (which is a Bora HS in China) inspired grill mixed with Tiguan styled chrome strips on higher specified models.



The rear takes cues from the former Shanghai VW / VW Brazil Santana 2000 which is what this Santana 3000/4000 is based off, the circular LED style brake lights look like they are from bigger brother within Shanghai VW, the Passat Lingyu.

Now for all those that don't know the Santana series is based off of the 'B2' Passat/Quantaum platform from the 1980s.

The Santana 2000 series was developed by VW of Brazil and Shanghai VW in the early 1990's as a cheap alternative for the companies, instead of building the new expensive 'B3' Passat of the time.

Today the Santana brand is so strong in China that it is unlikely VW will ever drop the Santana and Santana 3000 (they will continue to be upgraded).

Currently Santana 3000 which was released in 2004 comes with a 1.8L engine producing 74kw / 100hp.
Expect this engine to be carried over into the new model.

Source:http://www.chinacartimes.com/2007/10/24/santana-gp-enough-to-get-a-chinese-gent-excited

Schwarzenegger visits the VW Stand @ LA Auto Show

While the Governor of California was opening the LA Auto Show, he visited the Volkswagen stand and sat in the space up! blue concept as VWoA President and CEO Stefan Jacoby showed him around the concept and stand.

Apparently Herr Schwarzenegger was interested in the Clean TDI technology.

Kudos to Herr Schwarzenegger for taking an interest in VWs latest engine technology.

Press Release after jump...

Governor Schwarzenegger visits Volkswagen at the Los Angeles International Auto Show

Stefan Jacoby, introduces Volkswagen’s space up! blue concept car and reveals near term clean diesel plans

Official opening of the International Los Angeles Auto Show

Los Angeles, 15 November 2007 - Touring the show after the press conference California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger had the opportunity to sit behind the wheel of the recently unveiled Volkswagen space up! blue concept car.

Stefan Jacoby, President and CEO of Volkswagen of America, Inc. shared the space up! blue concept car with Govenor Schwarzenegger. This concept car is powered by both electric propulsion and a high temperature hydrogen fuel cell. At a length of only 12 feet, it has a surprisingly large amount of room for four passengers and offers a realistic look into the future of zero-emission car travel in the future. The space up! blue concept design was inspired by the classic deluxe microbus of the 50’s and 60’s, and is the third member of the so called new small family. Volkswagen has previously revealed a two-door up! concept car in Frankfurt and a four-door space up! was shown in Tokyo.

Arnold Schwarzenegger, famous as an actor and a politician, showed great interest in alternative fuel vehicles on display such as clean diesel power. Volkswagen of America, Inc. will be the first to bring clean diesel TDI technology to all 50 states. The initial models equipped with the all-new clean diesel engine will be the Jetta Sedan and Jetta SportWagen. Volkswagen’s clean diesel TDI technology meets the world´s most stringent emission regulations, enabling 50 state availability.

Source: Volkswagen

Hydrogen powered Tiguan HY.MOTION @ the 2007 Michelin Challenge Bibendum

While the space up! blue was presented at the LA Auto Show, VW was busy showing its future Technology Studies at the 2007 Michelin Challenge Bibendum in Shanghai, China.

All of VW's latest engine tech was shown, such as the BlueMotion, BlueTDI aka Clean TDI, Combined Combustion technology (CCS), TSI EcoFuel (Natural Gas) and Hydrogen Studies one of them this Tiguan HY.MOTION shown after the jump....


2007 Bibendum Challenge - Tiguan HyMotion with fuel cell
World exclusive: Tiguan HyMotion with fuel cell

Prototype of Tiguan HyMotion is the first fuel cell SUV by Volkswagen

Fuel cell of the Tiguan HyMotion develops system power of 80 kW

Wolfsburg / Shanghai, 14 November 2007

In Shanghai, for the first time in the world Volkswagen is presenting a SUV prototype with a fuel cell: the Tiguan HyMotion. Compared to the recently introduced Touran HyMotion, performance of the fuel cell drive has been further improved, and its efficiency has been optimized. The fuel cell system with an output power of 80 kW was integrated in the Tiguan’s engine compartment. The electric motor operates here too. It develops a maximum power of 100 kW. The top speed of the Tiguan HyMotion is 150 km/h; the prototype, weighing in at 1,870 kilograms, accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in about 14 seconds.

A lithium ion battery with a charge capacity of 6.8 Ampere-hours (Ah) serves as an auxiliary energy storage device. Its maximum power output is 22 kW. The battery is charged by recovered braking energy (recuperation) or by the fuel cell. The battery system is installed in the trunk, specifically beneath the dual cargo floor that can be ordered on the production Tiguan. The 700 bar hydrogen tank was integrated in the area beneath the rear bench seat and the cargo area. It can hold up to 3.2 kilograms of hydrogen (H2). Interior space is not impaired by the fuel cell drive system.

Basic operation of fuel cells

The key component of each individual fuel cell - a number of them are combined into a stack - is a proton-conducting membrane. It is located between each anode and cathode pair. Hydrogen flows on the anode side, and air flows into the cell on the cathode side. When many of these cells are combined in a stack, enough energy can be generated to drive a vehicle. In each cell, hydrogen and oxygen react to form water on the cathode side. The fuel cell thereby converts chemical energy directly into electrical energy in an oxidation process, a so-called “cold” combustion process. The generated “exhaust” is nothing but clean water vapor.

The fuel cell is supplied from the hydrogen tank and an external air inlet. The fuel cell outputs the electrical energy it generates - the power - via a converter and a downstream electrical system rectifier - to one or more electric motors. The resulting car is nearly silent when driven, and it is always driven emissions-free.


Source:Volkswagen

Zero Emission Passat Lingyu @ Michelin Challenge Bibendum 2007 in Shanghai

Here is a zero emission Passat powered by a Hydrogen Fuel Cell developed by Shanghai Volkswagen (SAIC and VW) and Tongji University.

Its not the first Hydrogen Fuel Cell developed by SAIC, VW and Tongji University together, since 2004 there have been 4 studies ChaoYue 1 to 4 based on Shanghai VW models.

This latest study is the most advance of them all.

more details after jump.

2007 Bibendum Challenge - Passat Lingyu with fuel cell
The car from the campus: Tongji University develops fuel cell

Zero emissions Passat was constructed by renowned Tongji University

Should set a precedent: Students, professors and industry combine forces
Wolfsburg / Shanghai, 14 November 2007

The zero emissions version of the Passat Lingyu is ahead of its time. The prototype, jointly developed by Volkswagen and Tongji University in China, is an example of

Volkswagen’s long-term collaborative work with the world’s most creative thinkers in developing new solutions for a clean future. Tongji University, which by the way was founded by Germans as a “medical school” in 1907, is one of the most respected universities in Asia today.

The fact is: The students and professors developed the Passat Lingyu to be one of the first vehicles whose fuel cell was practically entirely created at a Chinese university. An extraordinary performance. The Passat is powered by an 88 kW strong electric motor. The low-temperature fuel cell from the Tongji University supplies the energy; it is the fourth generation to be developed on the campus so far.

The hydrogen fuel cell is located in the underbody of the Passat Lingyu. The fuel cell system develops a peak power of 55 kW. The energy recovered by converting hydrogen (H2) into water (H2O) is fed into a lithium ion battery. It is located beneath the rear bench seat and has a capacity of eight Ampere-hours (Ah) at 376 Volt (V).

The gaseous hydrogen (total of 3.2 kilograms) is transferred to a carbon fiber reinforced pressure tank at 350 bar. Assuming an average consumption of about 1.36 kilograms H per 100 kilometers, the theoretical range would be 235 kilometers on one tank of fuel.

The torque-strong electric drive (210 Nm) delivers a very special and fascination. Mounted on the driven front axle, the motor provides for reasonable acceleration times (0-100 km/h: 15 s) and a top speed of 140 km/h. During faster accelerations the lithium ion battery plays a supporting role. When the Passat Lingyu is braked, on the other hand, energy flows back into the battery. It is located beneath the rear bench seat and has a capacity of eight Ampere-hours (Ah) at 376 Volt (V).



Source:Volkswagen

LA 2007: Volkswagen sets Tiguan price at US$22,490

Although the space up! blue concept took most of the attention at this year's Los Angeles Auto Show, the Tiguan did not disappoint. Volkswagen used LA to announce more details about US bound Tiguans.

One of those announcements involved the Tiguan's price when it hits US showrooms. Volkswagen have priced the Tiguan at US$22,490. Competitively priced considering the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, two of it's biggest competitors in this segment, are $20,700 and $21,100, respectively. Volkswagen's usual long list of standard features will sure offset the price difference pretty quickly.

Under the hood will be the much loved 2.0L turbo engine. The Tiguan will also be Volkswagen's first SUV in the US to have a manual transmission option. Buyers can choose between a 6-speed manual or auto (not sure if that will be a DSG but we don't see why not). Although AWD was not mentioned, expect to see it eventually.

Also, Volkswagen's new navigation system, the RNS 510, will be an option. The RNS 510, first seen in the Touareg 2, is a feature packed system that includes a touchscreen, a 30GB hard drive for maps and music, an SD card reader, a DVD drive capable of reading CDs and DVD Audio, and an iPod interface among others. The system can also get traffic information via Sirius' traffic service.

Volkswagen hopes the Tiguan will be for the SUV what the Golf is for the compact. It is due to hit our shores summer of next year.

Volkswagen's press release and images from the LA Auto Show from Autoblog, after the break.

Source: Volkswagen; images from Autoblog







LOS ANGELES - Volkswagen of America, Inc. introduced the production ready Tiguan compact sport utility vehicle today at the Los Angeles International Auto Show. The Tiguan represents a new entry in a new segment for Volkswagen.

“Tiguan is a new reflection on the three pillars of the Volkswagen brand promise: innovation, responsibility and value,” commented Volkswagen of America CEO, Stefan Jacoby. “Growing our business as a volume player in the US market will require new product entries in new segments for Volkswagen. The premium compact SUV Tiguan is the first of these new products,” he added.

Tiguan brings new standards of design aesthetics, driving dynamics, salient safety features, and a host of luxury and convenience attributes to an emerging category.
Tiguan offers distinctive European design characteristics such as a sophisticated and eye-catching face, an available Panoramic sunroof enabling almost 13 square feet of sunshine, and three trim levels allowing personalized configurations for a wider range of CUV shoppers.

Tiguan features the “fun to drive” handling and performance expected from a Volkswagen. A standard 2.0L TFSI engine delivers turbocharged acceleration while still delivering highly responsible fuel efficiency. European tuned suspension enables connected handling, while also providing a smooth and compliant ride. Both front wheel drive and 4Motion all wheel drive is available to suit any weather or road condition.

Tiguan is also unique in the category by offering a choice of either 6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission options.

The legendary Volkswagen GTI shares its 2.0L TFSI engine with the Tiguan. This spunky turbocharged four-cylinder power plant delivers 200 horsepower and 207 lbs –ft of torque. The combination of four valves per cylinder, direct fuel injection and turbo charging delivers the optimum balance of power and economy.

Like all Volkswagens, the Tiguan includes the Prevent and Preserve Safety System, consisting of 45 safety features. As standard equipment, the Tiguan includes six airbags, with rear side airbags available as an option.

The Tiguan was designed with driver and passenger convenience in mind. Flexible seating, with reclining rear seats with six inches of fore and aft travel, allow for additional legroom or cargo space depending on individual needs. The front passenger seat also folds flat for carrying longer objects, as well. The interior also includes various clips and storage bins ensuring safe space for all types of items that travel in the vehicle.

Tiguan also features the state of the art RNS 510 navigation system, combining a sophisticated radio with a precise touch screen navigation system and easy to use map views through its 6.5 inch high resolution wide screen display. The system includes a 30GB hard drive to store map data and audio files that can be brought into the device via the optical drive or SD card slot. The optical drive is capable of reading CD, DVD and DVD Audio formats. In conjunction with the media device interface (MDI), the system can interface with an ipod or USB stick. The system offers available Sirius Satellite Radio audio services and Sirius Traffic service, streaming real-time traffic data into the navigation system.

Tiguan will be based priced at $22,490, reflecting the Volkswagen brand commitment to value. Tiguan will be available in United States Volkswagen dealers in summer 2008.

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, GTI, Jetta, GLI, Passat, Passat wagon, Eos, and Touareg through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. Visit Volkswagen of America online at vw.com.

LA 2007: space up! blue is third sibling in up! family

As promised, Volkswagen delivered the third up! concept at the Los Angeles Motor Show. Called the space up! blue, it really isn't anything we haven't seen before in terms of styling. Like it or not, it follows the same design cues from the up! family, specifically, that of the space up! Really, nothing is different on the outside, except for some solar panels on the roof. More on that in a little bit.

What Volkswagen is really showcasing at this year's LA show is how green the space up! blue is. Blue, of course, is Volkswagen's green colour for anything that is environmentally friendly (BlueMotion, for example). The space up! blue takes the fuel economy to new levels by totally removing the engine and replacing it with a hydrogen fuel cell and and array of twelve ion-lithium batteries. The space up! blue can run on the batteries alone for a distance of 65 miles, while the hydrogen fuel cells extend that range by 155 miles to a total of 220 miles on a single "charge". The solar panels on the roof also provide extra energy (150 watts) for the batteries.

The real show stopper here though is not so much the fuel cells themselves as it is the technology. This is the first practical application of Volkswagen's high temperature fuel cell (HT-FC), first announced around this time last year. HT-FC provides considerable weight reduction, greater usability, and lower costs as compared to other fuel cell setups. With the space up! blue concept, fuel cells are closer to mass production than ever before.

Press release and photos after the jump.

Source: Volkswagen



To the Point: The space up! blue
Clean Drive Revolution "Made in Germany"

Volkswagen presents the first car in the world with high-temperature fuel cell

space up! blue covers downtown distances with pure battery drive

Wolfsburg / Los Angeles, November 2007. Powertrain revolution in California: Volkwagen is presenting the space up! blue concept car at the Los Angeles Auto Show (November 14 to 25) as a world exclusive – a compact, self-confident zero emissions van in the style of the legendary Volkswagen Samba Bus. On board: the world's first high temperature fuel cell and an array of twelve lithium-ion batteries. When the electric motor (45 kW / 61 PS) of the space up! blue is driven exclusively by battery, a range of 65 miles is possible – enough to handle nearly all distances in downtown areas. In the scenario of tomorrow's world, the four-seat Volkswagen is advancing to become the ideal vehicle for anyone who wants to drive – completely emissions-free – to work, recreation, school or university or just shopping.

Energy is "refueled" either via an electrical outlet or by the Volkswagen high-temperature fuel cell. In the latter case, the car's range is extended an additional 155 miles. This makes it possible to drive up to 220 miles on a single "energy charge". Aside from this, the microvan utilizes another energy source: the sun. And indeed with a large solar panel on the roof. It supplies up to 150 Watt of energy that is also fed into the battery. With its new high temperature fuel cell (HT-FC) Volkswagen is introducing a system that represents a turning point in research on fuel cells for mass production. That is because, the HTFC offers crucial advantages compared to all other fuel cell systems: considerably lower weight, significantly greater everyday utility, substantially lower price, and therefore clearly the better chances of becoming a reality someday as a mass produced technology. The high temperature fuel cell was developed at a dedicated research center founded by Volkswagen in Germany.

With its concept car being shown in Los Angeles, Europe's most successful car producer is introducing the third variant of its "New Small Family" within just two months. Like the city specialist, the up!, already introduced at the IAA in Frankfurt, and the space up! presented in Tokyo, the space up! blue is a small space wonder too. Over a length of just 144.9 inches, a height of 61.8 inches and a width of 64.2 inches, it offers the space of a considerably larger vehicle. The clever space concept of the space up! blue – which is 1,090 kilograms "light" despite the fuel cell and batteries – is largely due to the layout of the powertrain. Its emissions-free electric motor operates – as did the engines of the Beetle and the Bulli (Microbus) at one time – in the rear. Also housed in the rear, under the rear seat to be exact, are the lithium-ion batteries. The high temperature fuel cell, on the other hand, is located at the front of the car.

Volkswagen gives aid to California wildfire victims

Volkswagen has announced that they have donated $25,000 to the American Red Cross in response to the California wildfires that have affected many. Volkswagen is also helping customers who have been directly affected by the fires by deffering lease payments and extending loan payments by up to 90 days. Customers will not incur any additional charges or interest during this period. In addition, any late payments by customers who were evacuated or impacted directly will be reveresed by Volkswagen. Customers affected should contact Volkswagen at (800) 428-4034. Also, Volkswagen will be replacing the HEPA smoke and pollen filters of vehicles in the affected areas.

It is good to hear that Volkswagen is helping the California wildfire victims. Press release is after the jump.

Source: Volkswagen of America; image courtesy of NASA

Volkswagen is offering financial and vehicle assistance to customers affected by the wildfires and donating $25,000 to the American Red Cross efforts

SAN DIEGO – Volkswagen of America, Inc. announced they will help those customers affected by the southern California wildfires with financial assistance and the complimentary replacement of their vehicles HEPA smoke and pollen filters. Volkswagen will also be donating $25,000 to the American Red Cross to help those affected by the wildfires.

For customers who were severely impacted with damage to or loss of their residence and/or business, Volkswagen will defer their lease payments and extend their loan payments for up to 90 days. Customers will not accrue any additional charge or loan interest for the designated period. In addition, any late payment charges for customers who were either evacuated or impacted directly will be reversed by Volkswagen. Affected customers should contact Volkswagen by calling (800) 428-4034 to speak with a representative to receive assistance.

“We at Volkswagen are sending our thoughts and prayers to those affected by the recent devastating southern California wildfires,” said Steve Mears, director, Western Region, Volkswagen of America. “We believe that when you buy a Volkswagen you get a little more than just a car, you get something extra. We provide unexpected things in times of need as a way of reinforcing that something extra.”
For over a decade, every new Volkswagen vehicle has come with a standard HEPA Smoke and Pollen filter that cleans the air passengers breathe. With the recent fires, Volkswagen wants to replace the old filters that may have absorbed the lingering smell of smoke and potentially harmful ash.

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, GTI, Jetta, GLI, Passat, Passat wagon, Eos, and Touareg through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. Visit Volkswagen of America online at vw.com.

No Jetta TDI until late summer '08

In a letter sent out by Volkswagen to dealers, it said that Volkswagen will be delaying the much awaited launch of the Jetta TDI until late summer of next year. The original launch window was spring of next year.

Volkswagen cited "technical issue that was found during the later stages of durability testing" as reason for the delay. Hopefully, they can fix the issue right away. The sooner they can get TDIs on the street, the earlier it can give hybrids a run for their money.

Source: Autoblog

Two new models for US market by 2010

It seems Volkswagen is planning to let loose two new models in the US market. Both are sedans, one being a compact and the other being a midsize. Details remain scarce but what we do know is this, according to Automotive News:

• A “New Compact Sedan” (NCS), will be longer than the current VW Jetta, which measures 4.55 meters or 14.9 feet, in order to satisfy US customers’ desire for more interior room. The NCS platform will also provide the base for the successor to the Jetta, currently built in Mexico, for export to Europe. VW plans to produce 160,000 units a year, according to the documents.

• A “New Medium Sedan” (NMS) is an affordable sedan that includes fewer technical features than others in the Passat class. VW is planning to produce 120,000 units of the car per year.

It doesn't really say whether these two models will be replacing the Jetta and Passat. I don't think they will but I also think having four sedans on your lineup is strange. Until we can get more information, this remains a rumour for now.

Source: eGMCarTech

New New Beetle details still sketchy

Some said the New Beetle was dead but apparently, it isn't. A New Beetle replacement had been talked about a few months ago but nothing else in the way of details emerged since then. Lately, however, New Beetle 2 details are beginning to emerge but they are conflicting at best.

Some claim that the New Beetle will retain it's current general look but will have the up!'s grill and be based off of the MK. VI Golf platfrom (pictured). Another report claims that, and this is allegedly what Volkswagen chief designer Walter de'Silva has said, the New Beetle will retain part of the current model's design but with a few tweaks in the roofline and the front and rear to give it a more agressive appearance similar to the New Beetle Ragster Concept from the 2005 NAIAS. This one will be based on the Mk. V. Even release dates from the New Beetle 2 are conflicting with dates ranging from 2010 to 2012. Unfortunately, no mention of the design seen from the supposedly leaked sketches from Volkswagen's own design studios.

I guess what we can really gather from this is that one is in the works and the Beetle is not dead.

Source: Winding Road, EuroCarBlog

Speculation: new Touareg due in 2010

Let's face it: the Touareg is due for a replacement. Sure, Volkswagen brought us the Touareg 2 that featured a facelifted exterior, but technically, it's still the same old Touareg 1. So, it's understandable then, that rendered images of the next Touareg are beginning to show up.

This latest one comes from Auto Express. Outside, it looks like an SUV version of the up!, though Auto Express's own report claims that the looks are more based on the Tiguan (which is strange because the Tiguan's looks is supposed to make it look like a small Touareg) Whatever it may be, I think this is pretty much close to what we can expect in 2010, which is when Auto Express seems to think it will hit the market.

Auto Express says that the new Touareg will benefit from the use of aluminum to save weight and that a 3.2L V6 and 4.2L V8 gasoline engines are available. As for diesel, Auto Express says that Volkswagen will be replacing the current V10 oil burner for smaller displacement engines such as a 2.7L and 3.0L V6 and a 4.0L V8 sourced from Audi. Unless the V8 can manage the performance numbers that the current V10 does, I perosnally don't think the V10 is completely dead. Although the smaller displacement engine options are a welcomed sight. By 2012, the new Touareg will also benefit from a hybrid system coupled to the 3.2L V6.

Remember, this is just speculation on something that is years away so take it with a grain of salt.

Source: Auto Express

VW announces new US Motorsport Strategy

VWoA have decided against doing the GTI Cup but in its place is the new Jetta Clean TDI Cup.

Obviously this has alot to do with the future of VW in America and its marketing tactics with the Clean TDI brand.

The Jetta TDI Racer will have 170hp/125kW @ 295 ft.-lbs./ 350Nm 1900-2500rpm of torque, with DSG transmission and a race tuned suspension package.

Visually the Jetta TDI Racer will have the Thunder Bunny front spoiler combined with the Jetta side skirts and rear valence from the Jetta Styling kit and a whopping wing from VW Motorsport in Germany and when you add the 18inch rims its just the hottest Jetta yet.

Alongside the TDI Cup VW will also compete in the 2008 SCORE International Racing Series including the SCORE Baja 1000 in a specially designed race Touareg made by VW Motorsport HQ in Hanover, Germany.

If it looks good as the illustration were in for a treat.


VW have also launched a new US VW Motorsport website which you will find after the jump.....

Volkswagen to Feature Clean Diesel Power in Jetta TDI Cup Racing Series

LAS VEGAS – Volkswagen of America, Inc. announced today that it will bring TDI clean diesel technology to select North American race tracks starting in May 2008. The Jetta TDI Cup series will be sanctioned by the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) Pro Racing Inc., and will appear at up to eight major racing venues in North America during 2008.

“The Jetta TDI Cup racing series will celebrate Volkswagen’s diesel technology and heritage in motorsports as good, clean fun,” said Stefan Jacoby, CEO, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “Not only will the young drivers gain real-life track experience in a factory-prepared race vehicle, it will allow them to develop their own mindset of today’s clean diesel technology, and foster increased awareness of its advantages in this new era of environmental sensitivity.”

The Jetta TDI Cup shifts gears from the previously announced GTI program, allowing Volkswagen to showcase the power and performance of its new clean diesel technology, available in the upcoming 2009 Jetta TDI sedan and SportWagen. With up to 30 Jetta TDI’s competing in the hands of aspiring, young drivers, this unique motorsport offering will highlight a new, exciting platform of racing that does not currently exist – a full field of clean diesel powered vehicles.

“With the Jetta TDI Cup, Volkswagen has created an amazing platform to develop young drivers and expand their knowledge about clean and quiet diesel technology,” said Robert Wildberger, president and CEO, SCCA Pro Racing, Inc. “We look forward to the series in hopes that it will attract more attention to the drivers and advantages of diesel power.”

The Jetta TDI Cup racecars will be optimized for track performance and safety. To focus on the skill of the young drivers and to ensure performance parity, proper maintenance and safety standards, all vehicles will be owned and maintained by Volkswagen. The heart of the Jetta TDI Cup racing vehicle will be the all-new, high-tech 2.0-liter four-cylinder TDI clean diesel engine rated at 170 horsepower and nearly 300 ft.-lbs. of torque in racing trim. The Jetta TDI race vehicles will be outfitted with a six-speed automatic DSG® transmission, electro-mechanical power rack-and-pinion steering system, and advanced multi-link fully independent race-tuned suspension, driver airbag supplemental restraint system, and four-wheel ABS racing brakes.

Signifying Volkswagen’s environmental commitment, the Jetta TDI Cup series will be certified as CarbonFree by Carbonfund.org. Additional program details will be available at www.vwmotorsportusa.com by mid-November 2007.

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Volkswagen Preparing Touareg TDI For SCORE International Off-Road Racing Competition

LAS VEGAS — Volkswagen of America, Inc. has announced that it will build and race a competition Touareg TDI race vehicle in the 2008 SCORE International Racing Series. Specifically engineered to address the unique and harsh terrain of the Baja peninsula, the Touareg TDI race vehicle will compete in the SCORE Trophy Truck Open Production – Unlimited Class. The vehicle will be introduced in late 2008.

“Volkswagen’s off-road racing heritage dates back to the very first Baja 1000 and we’ve been very successful in recent off-road racing events such as the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, the Dakar Rally and a fantastic result at the 2007 Baja 500,” said Kris Nissen, Volkswagen Motorsport Director. “The experiences gained from previous racing successes with high-powered diesel engines will allow us to build the Touareg TDI race vehicle to address the various challenges of Baja.”

“The vehicles and technology that Volkswagen has contributed to the SCORE Baja races for the past 40 years have helped to define the series,” said Sal Fish, president and CEO of SCORE International. “We look forward to continuing the relationship with them and bringing clean diesel technology to the racers.”

The Touareg TDI race vehicle will be driven by multiple Baja winners, Mark Miller, a long –time Volkswagen Factory driver, and Ryan Arciero. Miller set the record for best finishing time in a diesel vehicle at the 2007 Baja 500. Arciero set a world record at the 2007 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in July with the fastest time in the alternative fuel diesel truck high performance showroom stock division.

For more information about Volkswagen’s motorsport initiatives, please visit www.vwmotorsportusa.com.

Source: VWoA & TDIClub Forums

2nd Place for Junior @ the Darpa Urban Challenge 2007

Junior the self driving Passat TDI Wagon the main part of the Stanford Uni Team and VW has come 2nd in the Darpa Urban Challenge 2007.

Junior missed out on 1st place due to a crazy overtaking maneuver to avoid a traffic jam (maybe it was just smarter).

Anyway Congrats to the winners Team Carnegie.

Press Release after jump.....

VOLKSWAGEN’S PASSAT WAGON “JUNIOR” FINISHES THE DARPA URBAN CHALLENGE

“Junior” one of only six robotic vehicles to finish DARPA Urban ChallengeVICTORVILLE, Calif. – Volkswagen of America, Inc. has announced that Stanford Racing Team’s autonomous Passat wagon, “Junior”, has successfully finished the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Urban Challenge.

“We could not be more pleased with our finish in this tough competition,” said Dr. Burkhard Huhnke, executive director, Electronics Research Laboratory, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “Junior performed exceptionally and has helped provide Volkswagen with valuable information as we continue to work on advancing passenger safety technologies and help to bring these technologies to future drivers.

“This research is an important step for Volkswagen Research towards the next generation of vehicle electronics, and vehicle safety features that will ultimately benefit our customers,” Huhnke continued.

“Junior” is one of only 11 vehicles that advanced to the final round of the DARPA Urban Challenge, an autonomous driving challenge where vehicles traverse an urban environment for 60 miles – merging with moving traffic, navigating traffic circles and busy intersections, avoiding obstacles and finding parking spots. Out of 167 teams who participated in the DARPA "Site Visit" in June and July 2007, 35 were chosen to advance to the National Qualifying Event, held October 26-31.

“The last decade has seen the acceptance of numerous electronic systems that improve the driver’s ability to handle dynamic driving situations, increase comfort during longer drives or assist parking maneuvers,” said Huhnke. “All of these systems are designed primarily to make the task of driving safer, easier and more enjoyable and also safer.”

“Pushing the concept of driver assistance to its limit, a car will someday be able to drive autonomously, either temporarily or for the full extent of the drive,” said Dr. Sebastian Thrun, associate professor of computer science and electrical engineering, Stanford University. “Junior has been an excellent means to test the many aspects of autonomous driving technology; these can be used for immediate applications in more “conventional” driver assistance and safety systems.”

“Junior” – a Passat wagon modified by the Volkswagen Electronics Research Laboratory (ERL) in Palo Alto, Calif. in cooperation with Stanford University has been made possible through the team sponsors, Red Bull, Intel, Google, MDV (Mohr Davidow Ventures), NXP and ApplAnix. Volkswagen and Stanford successfully partnered to win the DARPA Grand Challenge in October 2005 with "Stanley", a Volkswagen Touareg TDI.


Source:Media VW & blog.wired.com

Volkswagen of America reports October Sales Results

High Value Volume Model Lines Contribute to Brand Growth

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — Volkswagen of America, Inc. today announced October 2007 sales of 17,260 Volkswagen brand vehicles. This represents an increase of 8.3 percent over the 2006 figure of 15,942 units.

These results reflect increased inventories and expanded 2008 model availability of the core Jetta model line. October 2007 Jetta sales of 7,771 units represent an increase of 39.3 percent over October 2006.

Signifying Volkswagen brand strength in delivering accessible and affordable German engineered value are the increases posted by New Beetle and Rabbit model lines, up 17.6 and 10.9 percent respectively.

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, GTI, Jetta, GLI, Passat, Passat wagon, Eos, and Touareg through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. Visit Volkswagen of America online at vw.com.

Detailed numbers after the jump.

Source: Volkswagen of America

VW Caddy Maxi Limousine @ TERTS 2007

This here is the Caddy Maxi Limousine built especially for the launch of the Caddy Maxi Van shown recently @ The European Road and Transport Show.

The build was done by VW Netherlands within a 5 week timeframe and it is 1 metre longer than the already 47cm extended Caddy Maxi.
















Source:Thanks for the tip Jaap, Alex for the photos both are posters on Volksforum.com, press shots are from www.autoweek.nl

VW's Mystery Sedan Spied in the Orient

We've seen pictures of VWs mysterious sedan testing in the Czech Republic earlier this year.

Now comes these fresh pictures of a sedan undergoing testing in China.

Perhaps it's the next Santana replacement or Jetta MkVI or perhaps it still is a Gol NF based sedan ?

Time will tell.....






Source: AutoScoops via auto.sohu.com