At the 32nd International Vienna Motor Symposium, Volkswagen announced a range of important models with plug-in hybrid technology starting in 2013-2014, joining several other manufacturers that have made a commitment to this alternative powertrain.
''The plug-in hybrid offers great potential, because it combines […] unlimited internal combustion engine performance with attractive electric mobility ranges in everyday driving'', said the Chairman of Volkswagen Group, Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn. ''Electric mobility is the task of the century for the automotive industry and the European industrial community as a whole. Manufacturers, suppliers, energy providers, scientists and politicians – everyone must step up to the plate here.''
Winterkorn spoke in support of more targeted research funding, especially in the field of battery technology.
Which models will get the plug-in treatment? It's too early to tell, but expect VW to provide additional details during the upcoming months as the next auto show season kicks off.
The German automaker also used the Vienna Symposium to reaffirm its conviction that diesel engines still have great potential in passenger cars in the U.S. by introducing the new 2.0-litre TDI, which produces 138 horsepower along with 235 lb-ft of torque while burning just 6.7 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres.
''The plug-in hybrid offers great potential, because it combines […] unlimited internal combustion engine performance with attractive electric mobility ranges in everyday driving'', said the Chairman of Volkswagen Group, Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn. ''Electric mobility is the task of the century for the automotive industry and the European industrial community as a whole. Manufacturers, suppliers, energy providers, scientists and politicians – everyone must step up to the plate here.''
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| Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn (Photo: Volkswagen) |
Winterkorn spoke in support of more targeted research funding, especially in the field of battery technology.
Which models will get the plug-in treatment? It's too early to tell, but expect VW to provide additional details during the upcoming months as the next auto show season kicks off.
The German automaker also used the Vienna Symposium to reaffirm its conviction that diesel engines still have great potential in passenger cars in the U.S. by introducing the new 2.0-litre TDI, which produces 138 horsepower along with 235 lb-ft of torque while burning just 6.7 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres.