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VW takes TDI off shore

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Khatir Soltani
Volkswagen is taking its TDI technology to the marine industry to give boat owners a powerful and efficient engine option. The carmaker is gearing up to present two boats- the "Frauscher 909 Benaco" and the "Greenline 33"- at the Dusseldorf International Boat Show this weekend. Each boat is powered by a different Volkswagen group Turbo Direct Injection engine.

Frauscher 909 Benaco

The Frauscher 909 Benaco will feature a new 'TDI 350-8' engine, which is based on the highly advanced Audi 4.2 liter diesel V8. On land, this engine is found in the Q7 and A8 models in certain markets. On water, VW says the engine delivers the same top speed as a gas-powered unit while using virtually half the fuel.

Acceleration is also better, thanks to the punch of 700 Newton Meters of torque at just 1900 rpm. That's German for about 516 lb.-ft and horsepower is rated at 350. The diesel V8 marine engine also promises quiet operation while boasting a lighter weight and lower emissions than a similar gas engine.

VW has also contributed to the powertrain of the Greenline 33, a self-sustainable, hybrid powered boat designed for minimum-impact travels on water. The Greenline's four cylinder turbodiesel engine is mated to an electric propulsion system that's partially powered by roof mounted solar cells. It generates 75 horsepower and has a top speed of over 10 knots.

The 2009 Dusseldorf International Boat Show runs from January 17 to 25.
photo:Volkswagen
Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
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