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Reading Time • 2 min read
In the early 1930s, Adolf Hitler envisioned a mass-produced, affordable, and dependable car for the people, which led to the development of the Volkswagen Kdf. This versatile vehicle became a staple in the German army, predominantly utilized by officers, couriers, and communications personnel. It also found its purpose as a training vehicle. Dr. Ferdinand Porsche, the creator, faced criticism for retaining the rear-mounted air-cooled engine in the military version. Despite some initial drawbacks, the campaign in Poland demonstrated the vehicle’s reliability. By the end of the war, over 52,000 units had been produced.
Dr. Porsche unveiled the initial specifications of the Volkswagen 82 (then referred to as Typ 62) in January 1938. The light military modifications were commissioned to the Trutz bodywork firm in Gotha, resulting in two prototypes presented to Hitler in February of the same year. One variant had an oval body and rounded fenders, while the other had a more angular appearance. However, military experts deemed neither prototype to possess a sufficiently pronounced military aura.
Consequently, a new prototype, nearly identical to the subsequent serial version, emerged. It received approval, and testing commenced. Early field tests revealed that Typ 62 lacked adequate stability on rough terrain, prompting Porsche to reinforce the rear suspension and overhaul the front. Additionally, a new differential and hydraulic steering mechanism were added.
The military vehicle was equipped with a four-speed nonsynchronized transmission and the standard 985-cubic centimeter engine from the Volkswagen Kdf, boasting 23.5 horsepower. The initial Typ 62 series was delivered to military units in December 1939, concurrently rebranded as Typ 82.
In 1940, the vehicles were equipped with a heater, and by the end of the year, over 1000 units were produced. In March 1943, a modification with a slightly more powerful 25 horsepower engine and a displacement of 1131 cubic centimeters was introduced.
The air-cooled engine, while criticized for its performance in the Sahara and Eastern Front operations during World War II, was offset by the vehicle’s agility and durability. The Volkswagen Typ 82 Kübelwagen served as a fully versatile frontline vehicle, functioning as a four-passenger car, utility, communications, or cargo vehicle.
The model also had various iterations, including a limited-production amphibious version and several prototypes adapted for rail travel, equipped with tank treads, or featuring armored bodywork.
Reading Time • 2 min read
The Volkswagen Typ 3 (1961-1973) is known in retro circles as the slightly boring old-timer that only die-hard fans of the model truly appreciate. But in this case, it’s a completely redesigned 300 hp Porsche-engined ‘sportsman’ that just hides behind a 1600 L exterior.
The classic 1600 L car looks like a New Beetle, not very attractive, but with a lot of space and many advantages. However, the serial boxer located at the rear offers anything but a dynamic ride. Therefore, the tuning company Das Triebwerk dtw Germany decided to change that. They “grafted” the modest 1600 L 3.6 liter boxer engine from the Porshe 911 (964), and the engine power was increased from 250 to 300 hp.
For this purpose, however, a serious modification of the body in the rear was necessary, as well as the entire car was disassembled down to the last bolt and completely restored.
The brake system also comes from the Porsche 964 C2. The suspension of the 2-seater has been redesigned with Bilstein components – and, unlike the stock version, is attached to the body with specially made aluminum bearings. In the rear axle we find a large number of Cup-splits. The LED headlights provide illumination at the level of a modern car, and the classic Fuchs wheels emphasize the age of the sporty Typ 3.
With a little imagination and a good investment, this boring and basic 1600 L is transformed into a chic sports coupe. Round gauges, a low seating position and a precision transmission have been added. It is equipped with Recaro seats, with the classic Porsche checkerboard and nappa leather. Added Dr.Boom system with subwoofers and retro design.
An interesting fact is that the first tests of the car were conducted by rally legend Walter Roerl.
You can check out the photos of this masterpiece below in the gallery 👇
Reading Time • 2 min read
Audi with its headquarters in Ingolstadt already in 2020 started a process to change its corporate identity. Now the company has decided to change its emblem. The four rings will be preserved, but in a more cleaner form.
Now the emblem has chrome rings and the new one is expected to have a two-dimensional look. The four rings will turn white with a thin black border around each one.
And with the new emblem there will be the so-called “black option” – where the otherwise white rings will be in dark gray, which should look like gloss black.
The four rings at Audi have a long tradition. The famous emblem was created back in the 1930s as a result of the merger of the four car brands Audi, DKW, Horch and Wanderer, which found expression in the Auto Union emblem.
Reading Time • 3 min read
There are many young timers on the city streets, but few of these cars would have the potential to become classic cars. We’ve made our guess which Volkswagen cars from the past 20 years will become future classics!
There are still many cars from the 90s and early 2000s that are part of the street traffic. In Germany, for example, there are about 9 million cars aged between 15 and 29 years. These cars belong to two categories. The first is a used car that is still running and relatively affordable. The other category is the youngtimer, a car that is recognized by collectors as a model driven only in leisure time. Only the representatives of the last category have a chance not to be depreciated and become classic cars.
Emotions play a major role in the purchase of a young timer. It concerns criteria such as appearance, image, power. Sooner or later, however, reliability and suitability for everyday life also turn out to be important. We have selected for you a list of young timers that are recommended as future classics:
This car is named after a historic original. It is a symbol of simple, calm and relaxed riding under the open sky. It has great potential to become a real classic find.
This top version of the simple and reliable VW Golf 4 is sure to get the title of a classic car. And by the way, it drives literally like a rally car, knows how to “roar” loudly and has a massive vision.
This is definitely an interesting car. The smallest engine is a 1.6 and the largest is an 8-cylinder engine that generates a power of 275 horsepower. Unfortunately, it is not very reliable, but it is very rare. Only 11,000 cars were produced, and it is also available as a wagon option, which is even rarer.
Because it is the progenitor of all Volkswagen luxury models – or else it is the sweetest temptation of the Wolfsburg grandiose.
It is a cult vehicle, a dream for millions of people. With it you can go to a mountain, a lake, the sea and even go around the world. A durable and healthy van.
source:autobild.bg
Reading Time • 2 min read
Volkswagen Golf 2 for $25000 and it’s not a G60, it’s not even a GTI. For this money, one can get a brand new copy of the latest generation of the model! The used car in question, the Golf Country on eBay, is far from overpriced, though! This model can easily be called “the grandfather” of compact and modern SUV cars.
The Golf Country debuted in 1989 at the Geneva Motor Show under the name Golf Montana. For the project, Volkswagen began a collaboration with off-road machine specialists Steyr-Daimler-Puch of Austria – and the result was so well received that orders started coming in – and the Wolfsburg-based company began to think about launching a production version.
In the end, the executives decided to put the “monster” on the assembly line, using a four-door Golf body with a lifting frame and the Golf syncro 4×4 system.
The “Stranger” is exotic as customer interest cools once they realize it was offered with a 98hp engine and within a year and a half, only 7735 units were produced by the factory. And this one here is even more exotic: because it’s a special version of a special model! At the beginning of 1991, Volkswagen launched the Chrome Edition modification. It is offered only in black body color, combined with a cream-colored leather interior, a huge Webasto folding roof and many chrome details.
In years of production, this Chrome Edition is a complete failure in terms of price. Only 558 units were produced, the reason being the space cost, even the entry-level off-road Golf cost 33,225 marks, almost double the base Golf 2 with 55hp. But the “jewel” with the additional name Chrome Edition has the incredible price of 42,060 marks!
According to the seller, this Volkswagen 2 has only been driven for 20 years, having been part of a collection. Its owner not only kept the tall Golf, but also “dismantled, repaired, repainted and fundamentally renovated” it.
The engine has also been revised. There were “patches” on the bodywork, new fenders were installed, and some elements were repainted. The leather upholstery and sunroof are also new. Some pictures prove these claims – overall this Golf Country looks very good. The car even has a towbar. Interestingly, the ad does not mention the mileage.
The ultra-rare “granddaddy” of today’s SUVs can actually turn out to be a bargain, as long as you’re willing to pay that high price. Surely this rare model can only see a price increase in years to come as fans of these rare classic cars grow even as we see more and more electric cars. Check out the photos of this rare car from Wolfsburg below
Reading Time • 2 min read
When creating a car, between 100 and 200 test cars are made. They go through many different tests from light scratches to severe crashes, including adverse weather conditions. Most such cars remain for scrap, others in warehouses. However, Volkswagen has taken a different approach with one of the ID.4 test cars. The Xtreme Concept, on display in Locarno, Switzerland, gives an idea of what an off-road version of Volkswagen’s electric crossover could look like.
The concept is based on the ID.4 GTX, which means it’s ID. Xtreme has two engines and four-wheel drive. After software changes to the control unit, the electric car makes 382 horsepower, which is 87 horsepower more than the standard GTX.
ID. Xtreme also gets an aggressive, more extreme off-road look. This is thanks to the 18-inch off-road wheels and approximately 2.0-inch-wider 3D-printed wheel arches. The redesigned front bumper has a butch bull bar and a Led light bar is well fixed on the roof for night adventures as well. A completely closed aluminum underbody has been installed to protect the battery. Volkswagen has not provided photos of the interior, but they have said that there are redesigned seats that are wrapped in Alcantara. ID. Xtreme is equipped with a sound generator in the wheels that project some kind of noise while driving.
We highly doubt we’ll see this version in production, even though rivals from Honda, Hyundai and Subaru have provided similar cars in this class. Maybe Volkswagen will join, who knows.
Reading Time • < 1 min read
German carmaker Volkswagen AG is considering closing European plants and moving production outside the European Union (EU) if gas supply difficulties persist. This was reported by Bloomberg, citing Gen Wu, the head of the company’s public procurement department.
As medium-term alternatives to EU assembly, we will focus on greater localization of production, redeployment of capacity, finding technical alternatives similar to solutions used to overcome the effects of semiconductor shortages and other recent supply chain disruptions.” he said.
The company plans to implement these measures if gas supply problems continue “for an extended period of time beyond next winter,” the agency said.
In this case, “Volkswagen’s major plants in Germany, the Czech Republic and Slovakia, as well as the company’s energy infrastructure in southern Europe” would be at risk of closure.
source: bgnes
Reading Time • 3 min read
This Škoda is perhaps one of the most iconic models of the Škoda brand. In the 1930s, the Škoda Popular Sport Monte Carlo became a real masterpiece for European automotive industry.
The year is 1936 and the Czech racers Zdeněk Pohl and engineer Jaroslav Hausman participate in the Monte Carlo Rally with a two-seater Škoda Popular roadster. This sporty development of the company was made especially for the competition and, unlike the production model, it is equipped with an improved and significantly reinforced chassis and a more powerful 1385 cc engine than the Škoda Rapid. Thanks to the changes, the Czechs reach second place in the category up to 1500 cc. After this success, Škoda manufacturers created a small “civilian” series of cars, numbering 70 units, under the name “Sport – Monte Carlo”.
In the 1930s, the “Popular” model was indeed one of the most modern and popular cars in Europe. His success is due to the many successful participations in various car shows.
He also participated in grueling marathon treks, across the territory of different continents such as North and South America, South Africa, Asia, etc. The first such journey was made in the mid-1930s by several Czechs who crossed the whole of Europe and a large part of Asia, reaching the Indian city of Calcutta. It lasts 4 months and passes through Turkey, Iran and Afghanistan, where it is the most grueling endurance test. After overcoming the mountain passes of Kandahar, the adventurers reach the desert of Registan, where they fight a terrible sandstorm for five whole days.
The market version of the Škoda Popular Monte Carlo was only available to order, and in the period 1936-1938, 70 cars were built, of which 20 were open body type “roadsters” with a 995 cc engine, and 50 two-seater coupés, whose engines were working volume of 1386 cubic cm. The entire series is equipped with three-speed gearboxes, and the maximum speed of the closed version reaches 125 km/h with an average fuel consumption of 10 liters per 100 km.
The masterpiece for its time has an extremely elegant body. The strongly beveled rear part has been developed according to all the laws of aerodynamics and is bisected by a specific stabilizing “fin“, as in the Tatra.
The grille itself is also interesting. It is formed by narrow vertical chrome strips. In the same way, the headlights are also covered, which gives the “different” in the car of those years.
Soon after the success of Pohl and Hausmann, Škoda Popular became famous throughout North America. In 1936, F. A. Elstner took a trip from New York, through Texas to Mexico, then through Arizona, California, most of the northern states, and finally back to New York. The 25,000-kilometer adventure lasts more than a hundred days. One year later, the Czechs again took part in the Monte Carlo Rally, where they placed fourth in their class.
Reading Time • 3 min read
In the late 1980s, this strange car was found in a warehouse in the Frankfurt industrial area, rented by DKW enthusiasts. The warehouse contained many parts of the old brand. Over time, the band disbanded and much of the parts had to be sold, including this model.
The car was bought by a Dutch fan of DKW, despite the advice of his friends not to do so. The first problem is that many new parts have to be found or made, as well as various body components. The other problem is that the model is completely unknown and this makes its authentic restoration a major problem.
The initial assumption was that the car was an unknown prototype of DKW, built soon after Mercedes-Benz sold the company to Volkswagen in 1964. As one of its first stabilization measures, the new owner stopped all further DKW-related developments, and soon then the DKW brand goes down in history, replaced by the revived Audi. Despite the doubts, the car was bought for 2750 DM (1400€) and brought to the Netherlands.
For this price, the risk is minimal, as the costs could only be covered by the sale of the parts. In the Netherlands, a thorough review was carried out in an attempt to establish the authenticity and make a list of missing details.
It is clear that the headlights are NSU, the grille is a hand-perforated sheet, the chassis is from the DKW 1000 S De Luxe from 1962, and the engine is a boosted version of the 3-cylinder two-stroke DKW, designed for racing. The rear round lights are from Opel Manta, the windshield is from Porsche, and the rear is from Fiat 850 Sport and is mounted back at an angle of 180 °. It is more than obvious that this cannot be a factory prototype of DKW.
Dents and scratches on the body indicate that the car is not stored well. The restoration turned out to be quite complicated, as no photos of its original condition were found, and the lines of the body are barely recognizable from the heavily exposed hull. In the restoration, the new owner uses headlights, grille and bumper from the Audi 60, which largely reproduces the original look of the front. Subsequently, two pairs of round headlights were installed in place of the rectangular headlights. Initially, the maximum speed exceeds 185 km / h, but the car is too unstable for everyday use and therefore later built a standard engine from DKW, which reduced the speed to 125 km / h.
Over time, the origins of this exotic prototype, whose exact name is the Auto Union 1000 S Sport Coupe, became clear. It turns out that it was made by three students from the College of Design at the MHK Technical School (Meisterschule für Handwerker) in Kaiserslautern in 1968.
In this regard, it can be added that MHK is one of the most elite educational institutions in Germany specializing in training for the automotive industry. Klaus Lute, a pioneer of digital car design in Germany and the creator of some of the most interesting cars of his time, such as the NSU Ro 80, NSU 1200 TT, Volkswagen K70, and many iconic models from Germany, also received his education there. Audi and BMW.
It is interesting to note that only a year after the completion of the Auto Union 1000 S Sport Coupe, Audi presents the first sports coupe GT in its history, whose shape in many respects overlaps with that of the project created by students at MHK.
Reading Time • 2 min read
The Seat sports brand has confirmed that it will expand its portfolio from four models to six at the moment. So far, Cupra has honed Ateca, Leon, Formentor and Born.
The Cupra Tavascan is expected to be launched in 2024. This will be the brand’s first all-electric SUV and the second all-electric model. The model we are showing (UrbanRebel) will be released a year later. Its base price will vary around 25,000 euros.
The exterior of the car demonstrates a change to a more progressive aesthetic appearance of the brand, although it retains the characteristics and style of the Cupra. Cupra head Jorge Diez says the exterior aims to “inject a gamification look“.
There is a drastic change in the front of the model. From the original round shapes, Cupra have put their handwriting and changed the model with sharp details, and the new headlights are now triangular. This makes the car look drastically more aggressive.
The dimensions of the UrbanRebel are 4080mm long, 1795mm wide and 1444mm tall, making it similar in size to the petrol-engined Seat Arona.
The machine will have 335 hp and the peak power of the electric motor will reach 429 hp. from 0-62 miles acceleration will be 3.2 seconds. But we still can’t say whether these will be the final features of the production model.
Reading Time • < 1 min read
Carlos Sainz won the first stage victory for Audi in the Dakar Rally. The Spaniard covered the 255-kilometer section around Al Arabia in nearly 2 hours and 53 minutes. Hank Lategan finished second with Toyota in just 38 seconds, and Sainz teammate Stefan Peterhansel finished third.
The three-time Dakar winner was behind Lategan for most of the stage. Carlos did not allow the South African to take a serious lead. In the last kilometers, the Audi driver overtook Hank and recorded the 40th stage success and the first one for an electric car. Third place went to Peterhansel, who returned to the race thanks to the new rules. The Frenchman lost more than 20 hours on the first day and lost all chances for a good performance.
Nani Roma finished fourth in the Prodrive buggy, followed by Matthias Extreme in Audi’s third car and Yazid Al Raji in a private Toyota. The top 10 was supplemented by the teammates in the factory team of the Japanese Ginel de Villier and Nasser Al-Atiya, Lucio Alvarez with the other private Toyota. The tenth place went to Roma teammate Orlando Terranova. The winner of the second day, Sebastian Loeb, had technical problems, which caused him to lose about half an hour.
Stage 3 – 🚗
🥇 Carlos Sainz
🥈 Henk Lategan
🥉 Stéphane PeterhanselAll the results 👉 https://t.co/VWALrQ0INa#Dakar2022 pic.twitter.com/2ZOsX2OA1s
— DAKAR RALLY (@dakar) January 4, 2022
Reading Time • 2 min read
Last year, Ford unveiled the new Ranger, which is Amarok’s twin brother. Of course, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles did not lag behind and revealed several design sketches of Amarok, which is expected to be released this year.
From the very beginning, the German manufacturer stated that its pickup will have “pure Volkswagen DNA” instead of a Ranger with another logo. You definitely can’t go wrong with Volkswagen’s specific front end. As if there is some transition from the past to the future. And maybe it really will, judging by the allusive images, although, to be honest, it looks like the use of some of the body panels by the twin Ford. Apparently in order to reduce costs, both cars have the same doors, and the side mirror caps are identical.
One of the sketches showing the interior shows the portrait-oriented multimedia display. This is identical to For Ranger. There are also some differences, such as the physical control buttons below the screen. The space between the two front seats is also different, the positions of some functions have been changed, and the gear lever has a different design.
With these seemingly small changes, the two pickups should ode look quite individual, despite their common roots. But at Volkswagen Amarok we should expect the same range of petrol and diesel engines as at Ford Ranger, including the new V6 diesel launched at the American pickup. This will be confirmed after the start of production in South Africa and Argentina, from where the German pickup will reach our markets in 2022.
Reading Time • 3 min read
Volkswagen T3 with V8 from Corvette chosen as the best tuning car in Germany.
Volkswagen T3 with a larger engine – this idea is embedded in a large number of tuning projects. Most of the time, the “loaders” get a Porsche engine from behind – impressive, but not revolutionary. But what German Peter Weiss did with his T3 is much more impressive – because the on-board modification of the VW Bus has received the LS3 V8.
Behind this designation lies the 6.2-liter naturally aspirated unit with 436 hp used in the Chevrolet Camaro SS and Corvette C6. Otherwise, from the outside, the truck looks ready for the morgue.
The basis of the tuning project is a Volkswagen T3 Transporter from 1988, factory-fitted with a turbodiesel developing 70 hp. It was dismantled and replaced by a 6.2-liter LS3 V8, with White placed just behind the cab for optimal weight distribution (50:50).
The V8 engine sends its 436 hp. and 575 Nm of torque to a manual transmission from a diesel BMW 5 Series E60. On the rear axle, a differential from the Volkswagen Touareg V10 TDI distributes power between the left and right wheels. To accommodate all this, the frame of the “loader” has been seriously modified. Steel generation, made entirely on an individual project, as well as an aluminum tank for racing cars are installed.
If you are wondering how it is possible for such a car to drive on the streets of Germany, the answer lies in passing TÜV. As long as you meet the requirements, there is no problem.
Naturally, enormous power must be kept under control. For this purpose, disc brakes from Porsche 911 996 are placed, supplemented by Brembo devices on the rear axle for the parking brake. The suspension uses mainly KW components, but the springs and shock absorbers are specially adapted to the centrally located engine of the T3. The black steel wheels are shod in half-shapes.
The vision of the Transporter van with V8 is as brutal as the technology under the sheets. In terms of appearance, Peter Weiss not only leaves the serial look, but also removes the paint in places to show the bare metal. By applying preservative material, corrosion is stopped – and this T3 looks perfect in Rat Style.
In addition to the Recaro seats with Sparco belts, Weiss also puts on a roll cage. And for optimal control of the machine, a GTI steering wheel is installed all the time, dressed in Alcantara. The fact that the entire tuning project was completed in just one winter deserves respect.
Otherwise, in addition to this V8 Bulli Weiss has another T3 – a bus with a Porsche engine. In the Tuning Trophy Germany, however, the man decided to join with his brutal LS3-bus, which managed to prevail over the other two contenders from the last round in the face of Toyota GT86 and Dodge Charger.
For the finale, the tuning community chose their favorites by voting online – and so “crowned” Peter Weiss and his T3 Frankenstein for the best tuning project in Germany. In Tuning Trophy Germany, however, the man decided to join with his brutal LS3-bus, with which he managed to prevail over the other two contenders from the last round in the face of Toyota GT86 and Dodge Charger.
Reading Time • 2 min read
The legendary car RS2 is an extremely good workmanship in the automotive industry. It can be said that this is not exactly Audi, as much of the equipment comes from Porsche.
The idea to create the fastest 5-door station wagon production seems to have been liked when the project was put on the table in Zuffenhausen. The special Audi receives 17-inch wheels from the Porsche Cup; mirrors, turn signals and fog lamps of 964; 968 brakes; Porsche inscriptions on the cylinder head and on the RS emblem, which is reserved for the most powerful “11s”.
Who actually paid whom? In the RS2 project, both sides of the development are distributed to the maximum. One company needs attention and image improvement, and the other needs finance. The result of all this is the anabolic Audi 80 – that’s what it looks like and feels like when driving.
The three large openings in the front bumper of the RS are far from just for vision. They significantly contribute to the cooling of antifreeze, air to the turbo and oil. Under the hood runs a 2.2-liter 20V-engine with 5 cylinders – with a deadly sound and thanks to the turbocharger K24 with a liter of 140 “horsepower“: or a total of 315. Fortunately, there is a dual drive. Otherwise, we do not think what would happen after the engine “jumped” the turbo hole and “poured” the brutal power only on the front wheels. Thus, after 3500 rpm, the Audi is driven quite obediently and stops beautifully thanks to the technology from Porsche.
The suspension is tight, but not too tight, and the 6 gears are not typical for young timers. Nowadays the S4 needs the time for the 0-100 km / h sprint of 5.8 seconds. Twenty years ago, the doping station wagon cost a brutal 98,900 marks, and today it is more expensive to use than ever before.
Nowadays, this legendary car starts at 54,500 euros. The supply has been extremely reduced, as only 3,000 units have been produced. Many of these pieces are either bumped or “tuned” and damaged. Many of the “tuning” companies apparently did not understand that there is nothing to improve on this Audi-Porsche.
| Car data | Porsche B32 |
|---|---|
| Engine | 6-cylinder, turbo |
| Valves / camshafts | 20/2 |
| Camshaft drive | timing belt |
| Working volume | 2226 cubic centimeters |
| Diameter x stroke of the piston | 81,0 x 86,4 mm |
| kW (hp) at rpm | 232 (315) / 6500 |
| Nm at rpm | 410/3000 |
| Max. speed | 262 km / h (163mph) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Drive | 4×4 quattro drive |
| Front / rear brakes | disc / drum |
| Fuel consumption (factory data) | 10.4 litre |
| Total weight | 1630 kg |
| Measured values | |
| Acceleration 0–100 km / h | 6,5s |
| Mileage with one charge | 390km |
| Noise inside 50/100 km / h | 61/67 dB (A) |
| Price | |
| 54,500 euro |
Reading Time • 2 min read
The action takes place in 1994. The goal is for Volkswagen to return to the World Rally Championship with the ambition to win the Monte Carlo Rally. The German company Schmidt Motorsport, based near the city of Fürth (Bavaria), is preparing a racing car for the Wolfsburg giant according to the requirements of the regulation. The secret Golf Plan from 1992 in Schmidt Motorsport received the designation A59 – from Auftragsnnummer 59 (“order number 59”). But Volkswagen does not allow this “order to appear” on the tracks.
An entirely new aluminum engine has been developed for the A59. It has a displacement of 2 liters, 4 valves per cylinder and electronically controlled fuel injection system. The “gentle” modification of the A59 develops a maximum power of 275 hp. at 6000 rpm and maximum torque of 367 Nm at 3500 rpm. All this is thanks to the KKK turbocharger. Schmidt does not reveal exactly how much power the racing machine had – but in any case, significantly higher than the “road” version. Currently, the moving prototype of the A59 can be seen in the VW Museum in Wolfsburg. Of course, there are enthusiasts who give their mk3 only the vision of the A59.
Anyone behind the wheel of the A59 should know what to do. The “runner” has a 6-speed transmission, 4×4 drive and three electronically controlled locks – the central, front and rear differential. They intelligently distribute traction between the four wheels. However, the 4-cylinder engine “pours” its power so spontaneously that inexperienced drivers will be unpleasantly surprised. And this is no accident: after all, the A59 is designed to accelerate as quickly as possible when exiting a corner and, in the event of a mistake, to move “with the doors forward”. Rally legend Walter Röhrl is involved in the development of the super-powerful Golf and personally participates in the tests of the Nurburgring’s car. On the tuning stage of Golf 3, the kits for A59 are in great demand.
Reading Time • 3 min read
Mercedes has the EQS, BMW will launch the i7 in 2022. What can we expect from Audi, what will be its next-generation luxury sedan? The people of Ingolstadt are working on the issue. At the IAA in Munich (September 7 to 12, 2021), Audi will unveil with the Grand Sphere concept. This is the second of the three announced Sphere prototypes and is most likely the harbinger of an all-electric successor to the A8.
The most important thing we know about the Audi car
With a length of 5.3 meters, the concept is clearly aimed at the luxury class. More interesting, however, are the proportions: the glazed part (the so-called Greenhous) looks significantly lower than it really is – an effect that visually lengthens the car. The design trick is hidden in a curved aluminum decorative strip, which “guides” the eye and creates the feeling that the car is more sloping. The air conditioning components are located under the relatively short hood, which provides more space in the cockpit.
The most attractive part of the Grand Sphere is definitely the rear. The line of the roof descends initially smoothly backwards, and then falls sharply. The boot lid is, so to speak, a continuation of the aluminum strip described above. This makes the prototype a combination of Sportback and sedan.
In the standard version, the doors that open in opposite directions, as well as the missing B-pillar are likely to fall off. The current construction facilitates entry. And so we come to the most important part of the car: the Grand Sphere is designed not as usual from the outside in, but quite the opposite. The focus is on a generous space for passengers, around which the body is adapted. According to the Audi Grand Sphere, it should be a kind of “third living space” for people after the apartment and the office.
The layout of the cockpit in this way is possible thanks to two things: electric drive and autonomous driving. The electric drive allows more space, as electric motors and batteries take up much less space than internal combustion engines, conventional transmission and cardan shaft. In addition, the production version of the Grand Sphere will later be able to master level 4 autonomous driving.
It is unlikely that the rear seats will remain the same in the standard version – as well as there will be no ficus and water dispenser in the central tunnel as in the prototype. However, it is certain that the dashboard, which moves forward, as well as the folding steering wheel provide much more space than in the Mercedes EQS and Tesla Model S.
Control in the cockpit is not by pressing or voice commands, but by Eyetracking and gestures. Sensors recognize where the driver is looking and select the appropriate symbol. By pressing in the door armrest, the selection is confirmed and the system changes the corresponding menu. For example, if you want to set the air conditioner, you need to look at the corresponding controller in the door.
At the moment there is almost no data on the drive. The PPE platform will probably be used as a base – which will also use the electric Porsche Macan and Audi A6 e-tron. The energy will come from a battery with a capacity of 120 kW – which should provide 800 km of mileage on a single charge.
source:autobild.bg
Reading Time • < 1 min read
The second generation Volkswagen Golf is perhaps the most iconic model of the brand from Wolfsburg, and a preserved copy catches the eye even today. And all this against the background of the already existing 8th generation Golf. Undoubtedly one of the most popular modifications is the GTI performance and for this reason Volkswagen decided to honor it with a special model Golf Mk8 in collaboration with BBS.
Volkswagen Golf GTI BBS Concept, as the full name of the model, combines the vision of the model from the 80s of the last century with that of modern cars. The biggest impression is made by the golden wheels BBS, which could often be seen on the muscular mk2
In addition to the 19-inch wheels, the hatchback also got a H&R suspension with adjustable height and camber. On the front cover and the side part we find stickers with BBS logo and black color, as well as yellow fog lights in the front bumper.
Reading Time • 2 min read
Audi has introduced its concept Skysphere. As you may recall, the car will never go into series production in this form, but for those who can read between the lines, it is clear that this design will be partially transferred to the next A8, A6 and electric models e-tron.
Skysphere is a child of the future not only because of its futuristic design. The technique is also quite crazy – the wheelbase, for example, can change its length to turn the two-seater roadster from a comfortable GT. Thus, when folded, the wheelbase is similar to that of RS 5, and when unfolded, 250 mm is added. With the added wheelbase it is the length of the A8 L. The inspiration was the Horch 853 from the 30s, which certainly does not have a variable wheelbase. It is a symbol of luxury in Europe between the wars. Skysphere is 4.94 to 5.19 meters long, depending on the length of the wheelbase.
Although he looks like a muscular macho, every detail in Skysphere is well thought out and has a complex system. The 23-inch wheels are not only great, but provide additional cooling to the regenerative brakes. The entire front grille is an illuminated screen that can send signals to pedestrians.
The drive is entrusted to electric traction. A single electric motor in the rear axle provides 632 hp. and 750 Nm, which through the four wheels materialize in acceleration to 100 km / h in 4 seconds. The concept model is powered by an 80-kilowatt-hour battery, enough for 500 km on a single charge.
Interior of the future. When you extend the wheelbase, the system automatically assumes that you are not driving, but sleeping or relaxing… So it retracts the steering wheel in the dashboard and hides the pedals on the floor. This is in order to provide the widest possible space for rest. Or car cinema. However, in front of you rises a 55.7-inch screen on which you can easily enjoy your favorite movies. There are no buttons, everything is controlled with the touch screen, gestures and voice commands. Let’s repeat that to a large extent this car will live in the new A8 and then in the A6.
In sport mode, where the wheelbase is shorter, the steering wheel and pedals are returned and the dashboard is changed to form a cockpit for the driver.
Skysphere is not the last such prototype of Audi. The company will show two more – Grandsphere and Urbansphere – the first will be a limousine and the second – a hatchback. We expect them in the coming months.
Reading Time • 2 min read
The German manufacturer Audi has completed the range of its electric crossovers Audi Q4 e-tron and Q4 Sportback e-tron.
Sales will start in early summer with two new modifications. Their prices are already known, and the brand’s dealers are already accepting orders for them.
The current version Q4 40 e-tron with one electric motor with 204 hp. on the rear axle and a battery with a capacity of 77 kW / h was previously available only in the traditional version. But now is available as a cross-coupe. And because the Sportback is more efficient in terms of aerodynamics, it can travel 534 km (WLTP cycle) on a single charge.
This is 14 km more than the standard Q4 with the same unit, which turns the coupe-like modification into a mileage record in the family. The price of this model is 49,500 euros.
The other novelty is the addition of another modification with four-wheel drive – Q4 45 e-tron quattro. It has 265 hp. and joins the previously offered Audi Q4 / Q4 Sportback 50 e-tron quattro, which has 299 hp.
The new version will be available only in the traditional body version, accelerating from 0 to 100 km / h in 6.9 seconds – 0.7 seconds slower than the Audi Q4 50 e-tron quattro. The mileage is almost identical – 490 km, and the price of the electric SUV in this modification starts from 50,900 euros.
Reading Time • 2 min read
The facelift of the famous Seat Ibiza is refreshed with new interior technologies and many subtle exterior changes
Along with the Arona SUV, the cars are quite optimized, but the Ibiza is more focused on technological updates.
The exterior design has been left largely intact, but the LED lights are now standard at both ends, there are three new versions of alloy wheels. The model name is written with “handwritten” inscriptions on the back. Two new colors are also available: Sapphire Blue and Asphalt Blue.
The new Ibiza replaces its integrated touchscreen with a 20% larger, Leon-inspired “floating” item, available in 8.25-inch or 9.2-inch sizes, depending on performance. Located closer to the driver’s eye line, it is said to improve both ergonomics and safety.
The top-of-the-line FR Sport and Xcellence also receive a 10.25-inch digital display on the dashboard. All variants receive a multifunctional leather steering wheel made of nappa, illuminated air vents and a soft touch on the dashboard.
The smartphone’s mirroring feature is equipped as standard as part of the move to enhance the connectivity offered by Ibiza. The voice recognition capability – activated by saying “Hola Hola” ☺️ – aims to make the system work faster.
Additional new features include a pair of USB-C ports on the front and a built-in SIM card that allows access to Seat’s eCall emergency response service and other Internet-based features, including live traffic data and gas station prices.
2021 Ibiza complies with the updated Arona for advanced driver aids, receiving a “semi-autonomous” travel support function, lane maintenance assistant, high beam assistant, road sign recognition and blind spot warning.
The offered all petrol range consists of three 1.0-liter three-cylinder units with 79 hp, 94 hp. or 108 hp The first two work with a five-speed manual transmission, but the most powerful gets a choice between a six-speed manual or a seven-speed DSG automatic.
Reading Time • 2 min read
We all dream how nice it would be to go on a long and adventurous walk with one of the Volkswagen Transporter models. And how does a T3 with a Porsche engine sound to you?
At 185 km / h on the highway, and in the back your wife is playing with the children? And you buy a Porsche! Businessmen are in a hurry for a meeting – and they need a 9-second acceleration from 0 to 100 km / h? You need a Porsche again! No, this is not a dream – but a reality. A slightly different Porsche with a 6-cylinder rear engine was created 35 years ago. It’s called B32 – and we’ll introduce you to its history.
In the early 80’s, Porsche’s head of development Helmut Bot (1925-1994) gave the green light for the design of the strange model, after the tuned Bulli presented itself brilliantly as a prototype. According to various sources, the number of units produced is between 15 and 20. A hot engine from Carrera runs in the back. Naturally, there is also air conditioning and a stove on board. The price of this bus was – 145,000 Deutsche Mark (74,000 euros). For comparison: in 1984, the Carrera 3.2 cost 66,950 Deutsche Mark (33,740 euros)!
Today, the prices of the “king of space” have not fallen. And the “911” in it works completely real – there is no trace of compromise. The boxer growls and spins like any standard 911, it is a “donor” to both the transmission and many components of the suspension. Well, the infinitely long path of the gear lever can be annoying. There are disc brakes only on the front, and when the bus is not loaded, you feel the settings for the track.
This unique combination drives Porsche fans crazy. Who loves the 911 and has a family, this is the perfect combination of luggage, comfort and a fast car.
Here are some of the basic technical details of this Porsche:
| Car data | Porsche B32 |
|---|---|
| Engine | 6-cylinder, boxer |
| Valves / camshafts | 12/2 |
| Camshaft drive | Chain |
| Working volume | 3125 cubic centimeters |
| Diameter x stroke of the piston | 95.0 x 74.4 mm |
| kW (hp) at rpm | 170 (231) / 5900 |
| Nm at rpm | 284/4800 |
| Max. speed | 185 km / h (115mph) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drive | rear-wheel drive |
| Front / rear brakes | disc / drum |
| Fuel consumption (factory data) | 15.6 litre |
| Total weight | 2540 kg |
| Measured values | |
| Acceleration 0–100 km / h | 9.6s |
| Mileage with one charge | 380km |
| Noise inside 50/100 km / h | 60/66 dB (A) |
| Price | |
| 66,463 euro |
Volkswagen has almost nothing to do with the creation of the B32, but without a doubt the Porsche bus, although unofficially, is the pearl in the crown of the T3.
source:autobild.bg
Reading Time • 2 min read
7 minutes and 34 seconds: for anyone familiar with the Nürburgring, this achievement is truly impressive for a 30-year-old car.
With similar lap times, manufacturers such as Audi, BMW and Mercedes advertise modern high-power sports cars such as the RS Q8, M3 CS or AMG GT 63 S. The “oldtimer” is the pride of the British Nigel Pinder. According to the Nigel, seven minutes and 34 seconds are the best time he has achieved with the so-called “Pinderwagen” on the Ring – and because of the traffic on the track, the time could have been even better!
Naturally, Pinder’s Golf is far from a standard modification. The project is based on a fully standard Volkswagen Golf 2 CL without a sunroof. The engine comes from the Volkswagen Golf 3. It is a 2.0 16V with a “grafted” turbocharger Garrett, designed for the British Championship for touring cars. At a pressure of 0.6 bar, the engine develops 290 hp.
As Pinder shifts gears, it can increase turbo pressure little by little and eventually reach 360 hp. If that’s not enough to overtake on the track, there’s a steering wheel button for Extra Boost. When Nigel pushes it, the turbo pressure rises to 1.6 bar – and so it already has 440 hp! 😮💨
In order to adequately transfer this power to the asphalt, the normal suspension has been replaced with a new one from KW. The Clubsport track set is designed for the track and not only brings the Golf closer to the ground, but also improves traction and stability.
However, this is not enough. The Volkswagen fan optimizes the carriers as the driving behavior begins to match his style. The brakes are AP Racing Pro 5000. The gearbox is from Volkswagen. You’re probably expecting a sequential transmission – but in reality, the Volkswagen Golf 4’s 6-speed transmission works here along with the differential.
The Pinderwagen is homologated for the public road network and can be used to go to the nearby fruit and vegetable grocery store. The Briton made his Golf in a garage, improving his car constantly. In addition to power, aerodynamics are also “upgraded”. We can’t miss the splitter in front. It turns out to be so solid that you can step on it. You can see it in the “Porsche Eater” video by Nurburgring blogger Misha Sharuddin:
Reading Time • 2 min read
Today, 112 years ago, an iconic brand with four grille rings was created – Vorsprung durch Technik.
On July 16, 1909, August Horch rebuilt August Horch Automobilwerke GmbH Zwickau in the city of Zwickau. The Audi was born from the son of August Horch’s best friend, Heinrich Fickencher, a high school student who translated Horch’s name into Latin – Audi = Horch! (Listen).
The first car of the brand was released in 1910 – Audi Typ A 10/22 PS Phaeton.
Audi’s production in the period 1912-1914 included 6 models, from the middle class to the most luxurious, 3 models of trucks and chassis for buses.
Audi started with a 2,612 cc inline-four engine model Type A, followed by a 3,564 cc model, as well as 4,680 cc and 5,720 cc models. These cars were successful even in sporting events. The first six-cylinder model Type M, 4,655 cc appeared in 1924.
August Horch left the Audi Werke in 1920 for a high position at the ministry of transport, but he was still involved with Audi as a member of the board of trustees. In September 1921, Audi became the first German car manufacturer to present a production car, the Audi Type K, with left-handed drive. Left-hand drive spread and established dominance during the 1920s because it provided a better view of oncoming traffic, making overtaking safer when driving on the right.
In 1932, an auto union of four was formed – Horch, Audi, Wanderer and DKW merged into Auto Union. Thus, they create the unique emblem that is known today – the four rings.
Volkswagenwerk AG acquired the majority of shares in Auto Union GmbH in December 1964, with Audi becoming a fully owned VW subsidiary from the end of 1966.
Reading Time • 2 min read
Meet the new brutal Porsche Marsien. The Martian is based on the new 911 Turbo S and will be produced in a circulation of only 40 units.
Each of them receives a tuning package from RUF, which increases the power to 750 hp. But this is only the serial version. For customers who are willing to pay extra, horses can jump up to 830 combined with 930 Nm. This is done with the help of larger turbines and the Akrapovic exhaust system.
These numbers are enough to eject up to 100 km / h in 2.6 seconds and reach 330 km / h. Much more interesting, however, is Marsien’s ability to handle off-road terrain. This is a fact thanks to the completely redesigned suspension, for which the specialists of KW Automotive are responsible. Adjustable shock absorbers allow raising the ground clearance from 120 to 250 mm, and for an additional fee will be offered suspension, comparable to that of racing cars from “Dakar”.
All this is packaged in a super lightweight carbon fiber body made by KLK – a company that supplies for Formula 1, Formula E and Le Mans.
The interior is also completely redesigned compared to the standard Turbo S. It is inspired by that of the Carrera GT. Everything in it can be individualized according to the wishes of the happy 40 customers who will order the car. In this regard, it is good to know that the price of 500 thousand euros does not even include the 911 Turbo S itself, on which the tuning studio will make changes.
The Gemballa Marsien is priced at €495,000 not including taxes or the donor car, but by the time it reaches the UK it will cost from around £665,000 before options, including the £155k base price of a Turbo S.
Reading Time • < 1 min read
GTI, GTE, GTD, GTI Clubsport, R: anyone looking for a sporty Volkswagen Golf has a great choice. If you are looking for a more “refined” modification aimed at factory performance, it is best to contact H&R. For GTI, GTI Clubsport and GTD. A specialist in suspension offers lower springs, so as to make the road introduction of hotspots in the corners even more dynamic.
The springs are designed for trouble-free operation with standard shock absorbers and lower the body of the GTI and GTD by 40 millimeters. In the Clubsport, which is more sporty than its GTI counterparts, the reduction is 35 millimeters. Adaptive suspension functions are retained, and cornering dynamics and steering precision are significantly improved. At the same time, H&R promises that suitability for long journeys will be maintained. And to optimally fill the wheels of the fenders after removing the body, H&R also offers track extensions as well as new rim models.
source:autobild.bg
Reading Time • < 1 min read
The new station wagon from Wolsburg’s portfolio has both a sporty spirit and comfort, adding loads of practicality. Owners can store 611 liters of luggage with raised seats and 1642 liters after folding. It is no problem to order a towbar – the model can tow a trailer load up to 1.9 tons. It will be available from mid-August 2021 only for Germany, Great Britain and Switzerland.
Thanks to 320 hp, 420Nm and 7-speed DSG transmission, powered by 4×4. Weighing 1630 kg, the Golf R Variant accelerates from 0 to 100 km / h in 4.9 seconds (0.2 seconds slower than the hatchback) and reaches a top speed of 250 km / h.
Customers will be able to buy the station wagon with a starting price of €51,128 and €71,579 for the model with all the extras.
Reading Time • 2 min read
Audi has unveiled the concept A6 e-tron at the Shanghai Motor Show, which will be up to 95 percent similar to the production model. The four-door liftback, or as it is called in the Sportback company itself, is the first Audi built on the new PPE (Premium Platform Electric) electric platform. The concept is larger than the current A6: it is longer, wider and taller, and the rims are 22 inches. The drag coefficient is 0.22, more than that of the Mercedes-Benz EQS (0.20).
The A6 e-tron has cameras instead of exterior mirrors, retractable door handles and special matrix headlights that can project navigation signs on the road or information about the remaining battery charge. Whether this technology will get the production car, Audi does not specify.
The Audi A6 e-tron is powered by two electric units (one on the front and one on the rear axle). The total power of the electric motors reaches 476 horsepower and 800 Nm of torque. From standstill to 100 km / h, the electric liftback accelerates in less than 4 seconds.
The battery capacity is 100 kilowatt hours, provides a power reserve of up to 700 kilometers. Express charging from five to 80 percent takes about 25 minutes and in 10 minutes you can increase mileage by about 300 kilometers.
The debut of the new-generation Audi A6 will take place in the second half of 2022, and the model will go on sale in early 2023. Production is organized in factories in Germany and China.
Reading Time • < 1 min read
The team of the YouTube channel Carwow organized another acceleration race between two remarkable cars – the high-performance Audi RS6 Avant station wagon and the Tesla Model X electric crossover.
It’s no secret that Tesla cars accelerate very quickly and usually leave no chance to their competitors in such races. This is achieved due to the fact that all the torque is available to the driver when starting. Model X is no exception, but against it this time is a very fast and powerful car.
In this case, the electric crossover is its most powerful version Dual Motor Performance, which is powered by two electric motors – one on each axle, and they develop a total of 778 hp. and 1140 Nm. Due to the batteries, the Model X weighs 2485 kg, which helps for better traction, but is a problem at higher speeds. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km / h is less than 3.0 seconds.
Rival Audi RS6 Avant is equipped with a 4.0-liter V8 with twin turbo and 48-volt starter-generator, with 600 hp. and 800 Nm. The engine is combined with an 8-speed automatic transmission and an Audi quattro four-wheel drive system. The station wagon is lighter than the electric car, weighing 2075 kg.
The competition is held according to the usual Carwow regulations. The two cars compete for acceleration from a standstill, a start in motion at a speed of 48 km / h and brake efficiency at 113 km / h.
source: carwow
Reading Time • < 1 min read
The twin-turbocharged V-8–powered 2022 Cayenne Coupe will arrive in the U.S. next year starting at $182,150.
Porsche has introduced their most powerful V-8 engine, which is a 4-0-liter twin-turbo engine that produces 631 horsepower with 848Nm. It will be installed in the Porsche Cayenne Coupe, and the German manufacturer says that the pilot Lars Kern has set a new record for the lap of the SUV on the Nürburgring Nordschleife, having completed the 12.9-kilometer course for 7: 38.9. The new Cayenne will arrive in the United States, only in coupe form, next year, starting at $ 182,150(€153,323).
Total output might be less than the Turbo S e-Hybrid’s 670 horses, but that powertrain uses an electric motor and a 14.3-kWh battery pack. This is solely the work of the internal-combustion engine. Porsche upgraded the V-8’s crankshaft, connecting rods, and pistons; enlarged the turbos’ compressor wheels; and increased the fuel injection flow rate and the intake and cooling systems’ airflow to make the additional power. The eight-speed automatic transmission also shifts quicker compared to other models, and the all-wheel-drive system’s transfer case is water cooled. Porsche claims that the Turbo GT will launch to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds, hit the quarter-mile in 11.6 seconds, and reach 299km/h(186 mph).
source: caranddriver
Reading Time • 3 min read
Audi has revealed some of the technical details of the latest generation of the small sports model – RS3. The company showed photos and video of the sedan and hatchback, whose official premiere will take place soon.
The main difference in the new RS3 compared to the previous model is the improved four-wheel drive system. It is borrowed from the hot hatch VW Golf R, based on the eighth generation of the 5-door model. Audi has decided to abandon the traditional multi-disc clutch to transmit traction on the second axle, replacing it with two similar devices – one on each of the drive shafts of the rear wheels.
Such a scheme allows to realize a controlled thrust vector. For example, on left turns most of the effort goes to the rear right wheel, and on right turns the opposite happens. When leaving the bend, the load is the same. In Sport mode, the torque distribution is shifted to the rear axle, and in Normal mode – to the front.
Each of the two multi-disc couplings has its own control unit connected to wheel speed sensors. They take into account the longitudinal and lateral acceleration, the engaged gear, the position of the pedal, etc. The degree of blocking is controlled by special gearboxes, and all this is monitored by the main computer, which is responsible for the overall dynamics of the car.
The video presented by Audi clearly shows how the system works, whose goal is to make the hatchback and sedan both more fun and more extreme than their predecessors. There are a total of 7 modes available to the driver for different conditions – from drift (RS Torque Rear) to driving on a circular trajectory (RS Performance).
Regarding the engine, the new RS3 retains the 2.5-liter 5-cylinder turbo engine, which has been slightly modified. Its power remains 400 hp, which can be felt in the range from 5600 to 7000 rpm. Maximum torque has been increased from 480 to 500Nm
The new exhaust system with controllable valve will provide more impressive sound, and traction control is provided by an upgraded 7-speed robotic gearbox S tronic with lunch control. This will allow the acceleration time from 0 to 100 km / h to be reduced from 4.1 to 3.8 seconds.
The maximum speed remains electronically limited to 250 km / h. At the customer’s request, it can be 280 km / h, and when ordering carbon-ceramic brakes, the limiter can be moved to 290 km / h.
Adaptive shock absorbers are also available for a fee, and the ground clearance is reduced by 10 mm compared to the S3 version. The suspension is the same as the previous RS3 – McPherson front and multi-link (multi-link) rear. More details will become clear at the presentation of the model, which will premiere to the public at the Munich Motor Show in September.
Reading Time • < 1 min read
A meeting of Skoda fans was organized yesterday in Warsaw, Poland. The event was attended by 55 cars, the most numerous were the representatives of Skoda Fabia, about 17 cars.
The organizers from @fabiaclubpolska and @octaviaclub.pl share that the event was in the spirit of friendship and strong love for the brand. Of course, the official Škoda representative in Poland was invited to the meeting, who presented the new Škoda Enyaq iV, which is fully electric.
The @the.vag.family team thanked you for sharing the event.
Reading Time • < 1 min read
German carmaker Volkswagen will stop selling cars powered by internal combustion engines (ICE) in Europe by 2035. By then, the company should have switched entirely to electric vehicles in the Old Continent, and later in the United States and China, according to Reuters.
In Europe, we will leave the business of internal combustion vehicles between 2033 and 2035, in the United States and China – a little later, “said Klaus Zelmer, a member of the Board of Volkswagen, to Muenchner Merkur. “It will take much longer in South America and Africa due to the fact that the political and infrastructural framework conditions are still lacking.”
By 2050 at the latest, Volkswagen’s entire fleet must be carbon-neutral, Zelmer said.
In Europe, the company aims for electric cars to account for 70% of total sales by 2030. This will prepare the company for a possible tightening of the European Union’s climate targets and will even exceed them.
EU politicians have reduced exhaust emissions, forcing carmakers to stimulate the development of low-emission technology. Otherwise, they face sanctions if they exceed carbon dioxide emission limits.
Reading Time • < 1 min read
Skoda aims to surpass Ford and Toyota, with the goal of being among the five best-selling brands in Europe by 2030. This was stated by CEO Thomas Schaefer. This is part of Skoda’s plan and the strategy will be achieved by “further strengthening the brand’s position in the entry-level segments,” Schaefer added.
Schaefer referred to the new small Fabia car, which will go on sale later this year with a starting price below 14,000 euros ($ 16,750).
Skoda is currently the 8th brand in Europe in terms of sales based on data from 2020 from the ACEA industry association, which reports registrations in the markets of the European Union, EFTA and the United Kingdom.
The brand is also rolling out sales of the Enyaq full-electric compact SUV, its first model based on VW’s MEB platform.
Skoda will have to overtake Ford and Toyota to reach the top five. The Volkswagen brand was the best-selling brand last year, followed by Renault, Peugeot, Mercedes-Benz and BMW.
Skoda sold 643,019 cars in Europe last year (2020). Of course, sales fell during the pandemic, but the carmaker increased its market share to 5.4% from 4.8% a year earlier.
Skoda was the second best-selling brand in the Volkswagen Group’s portfolio throughout Europe during the year.
Reading Time • 4 min read
Volkswagen Vans marked the world premiere of the all-new Genevan as a complete concept. For the first time, the new Bulli uses the basis of Volkswagen’s modular cross-engine design platform (MQB) and makes a huge technological leap forward. One of the significant innovations is the inclusion in the range of a version with a plug-in hybrid drive, which will allow the Multivan to travel a certain mileage with zero emissions (Zero Emission Vehicle).
The Multivan version with a plug-in hybrid drive system bears the additional designation eHybrid, and the total system power of the electric motor and gasoline turbo engine (TSI) is 160 kW / 218 hp. Thanks to the lithium-ion rechargeable battery with an energy capacity of 13 kWh, the new Multivan eHybrid is fully able to cope with the typical average daily mileage of all-electric traction.
In addition to the hybrid version, the new generation Multivan with front-wheel drive will also be available in two versions with four-cylinder petrol turbo engines with a maximum power of 100 kW / 136 hp. and 150 kW / 204 hp. The four-cylinder turbodiesel variant (TDI) with a maximum power of 110 kW / 150 hp. will join the range next year.
The new Volkswagen T7 Caravelle replacement has the same boxy silhouette as the outgoing van, but its new bumpers and full-width daytime running light
All drive variants of the new model are combined as standard with a dual-clutch transmission (DSG). The six-speed DSG with the designation DQ400E of the eHybrid version is specially developed for the plug-in hybrid transmission system, which forms a fully integrated module with the traction motor. The TSI versions and expectations at a later stage of the TDI will use a 7-speed DSG transmission. For the first time in the Multivan, the transmission will be controlled “by wire” – without a mechanical connection between the gear lever and the mechanism, which allows for very easy and convenient gear shifting via a small DSG control lever on the dashboard.
Like the exterior of the new generation, the whole interior is completely new and created from scratch. This includes the dashboard with its widescreen displays, ergonomic layout and full communication connectivity. The driver has in front of him the all-digital readings of the control unit (“Digital Cockpit”) and the infotainment system “Ready 2 Discover” included in the standard equipment.
Part of the standard equipment of all versions of the model are Car2X (system for warning of local hazards based on data exchange with the road infrastructure), the system for monitoring the area in front of the car “Front Assist”, including emergency stop function in urban traffic City , obstacle avoidance assistance with the new cornering assistant, road sign recognition function, Lane Assist and cruise control system. One of the innovative new systems is “IQ.DRIVE Travel Assist“, which allows partial autonomous driving in the entire range from 0 to 210 km / h.
The basic version of the body has become longer and wider than the previous model. The specific dimensions of the new Multivan without the additionally offered exterior mirrors with folding electromechanism are the following – width 1 941 mm (+37 mm compared to Multivan 6.1), length 4 973 mm (+69 mm) and height up to 1 903 mm 47 mm). The wheelbase is 3 124 mm (+124 mm). The T7 Multivan is again available in an extended version, which with an identical wheelbase has a total length of 5173 mm and is 131 mm more compact than the previous model.
Another novelty for the Multivan range is the interactive matrix system IQ.LIGHT of the LED headlights, which is additionally offered as an alternative to the LED headlights included in the standard equipment of all versions.
Although not part of the tradition of previous generations of Multivan, the storage options in the center console are very practical. The same can be said for the table in the back, which was an integral part of the equipment of all previous editions of Multivan. Taking into account these two circumstances, Volkswagen Van specialists have simply rethought and combined these two amenities.
The result is a multifunctional table integrated into the fundamentally updated rail system of the seats. Thanks to the innovative position fixing technology, this new multifunctional The module can be used both as a center console between the driver’s and front passenger’s seats and as a folding table with beverage racks and storage compartments on the second and third rows of seats.
source:autobild.bg
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