Capable of Driving from Paris to London Without Refueling

The eighth generationNew PassatThe plug-in hybrid model introduced in the 8th generation Passat is equipped with a powertrain that combines a 1.4-liter inline 4-cylinder DOHC turbo TSI engine producing 115 kW (156 PS) with an electric motor producing 85 kW (115 PS) and a lithium-ion battery. As the name suggests, it can be charged from household outlets.

The system's maximum output for this powertrain is 160 kW (218 PS) and its maximum torque is 400 Nm (40.8 kgm), which is slightly higher than the 150 kW (204 PS) system output of the "Golf GTE" announced at the Geneva Motor Show in March.Geneva Motor Showannounced at theGolf GTEslightly exceeds the system's maximum output of 150 kW (204 PS).



With the introduction of plug-in hybrid models for the Golf and Passat, Volkswagen can be considered one of the automotive manufacturers most committed to energy diversity. The Golf, in particular, is the only production car to offer five different powertrains in a single model: gasoline,gasoline, diesel, natural gas,EV, and hybrid.



However, what is unique is their approach of directly introducing plug-in hybrid systems to the market, bypassing conventional hybrid systems that combine gasoline (or diesel) engines with electric motors. This is likely closely related to Volkswagen's "e-mobility" strategy.



Volkswagen is more proactive than any other manufacturer inelectrifying vehicles, emphasizing zero-emission driving for everyday distances.

Benefits of Plug-in Hybrid

As explained, the new Passat GTE's plug-in hybrid system combines a 1.4-liter inline 4-cylinder DOHC turbo TSI engine with an electric motor and lithium-ion battery. The energy supplied by the lithium-ion battery, charged from an external power source, enables up to 50 km of zero-emission driving in "E-mode."




According to Volkswagen, "E-mode" (EV driving) is envisioned for everyday short-distance commutes, as well as for driving through city centers at the end of longer journeys.



In the UK, for example, drivers entering London are required to pay congestion charges, but plug-in hybrid cars like the new Passat GTE, as well as electric vehicles such as the "e-up!" and "e-Golf," are exempt. Coupled with these tax benefits, the driving range, including zero-emission driving, exceeds 1,000 km. This is equivalent to the distance from Paris to London and back without refueling. However, the maximum speed in "E-mode" is limited to 130 km/h.

The GTE Mode: Delivering Driving Enjoyment

While achieving such low fuel consumption and high efficiency, the "GTE mode" available in the new Passat GTE also offers driving enjoyment. Like "E-mode," this mode can be selected with a single switch.



When GTE mode is selected, the system delivers a total output of 160 kW (218 PS), and settings for the throttle, steering, and other components are adjusted. This allows for agile and powerful driving. The car boasts a 0-100 km/h acceleration in under 8 seconds and a top speed exceeding 220 km/h.

Anticipation for Japanese Market Introduction

While the plug-in hybrid system is the main focus of the new Passat GTE, the exterior also features several distinctive design elements.



For example, it has a dedicated chrome radiator grille, blue accent lines on the front face, a redesigned front bumper and air intake, and distinctive C-shaped LED daytime running lights. The blue accents represent Volkswagen's e-mobility image color, and the C-shaped LED daytime running lights are a design motif symbolizing Volkswagen's EV and PHEV models.



This display includes a range monitor (showing "E-mode" driving range), an energy flow indicator (displaying energy flow as animated blue arrows during acceleration and green arrows during braking/regeneration), zero-emission statistics, and an e-manager (allowing reservation of up to three departure and charging times, with climate control pre-conditioning). If the optional navigation system is installed, additional features like a 360° range display (showing the "E-mode" driving range on a map) are also available.



The new Passat GTE also features advanced safety and comfort equipment befitting a flagship model, including LED headlights, Multi Collision Brake (an automatic braking system to mitigate or avoid secondary collisions), Front Assist with City Emergency Braking, and front and rear Park Pilot (parking assist functions).



Volkswagen is also planning to introduce thee-up!ande-Golfto the Japanese market soon. Given their commitment to electrification, the commercial release of PHEV models like the new Passat GTE and Golf GTE is highly anticipated. Both models are expected to be introduced in Japan as early as mid-2015.