From the Paris Motor Show Floor, Vol. 1 | Mondial de l’Automobile 2014
Mondial de l'Automobile 2014
From the Paris Motor Show Floor, Vol. 1
The Mondial de l'Automobile 2014, France's largest auto show, has finally opened. Mercedes-Benz is unveiling its new-generation supermodel, the "AMG GT," while Jaguar debuts its new saloon, the "XE." Lamborghini is also generating buzz with the introduction of a plug-in hybrid sports car. Fumio Ogawa, a motor journalist reporting from Paris, France, delivers this breaking report from the scene.
Text by OGAWA Fumio
A Volkswagen Festival This Year
The Paris Motor Show opens to the public on October 4th. This year, with Lamborghini unveiling a plug-in hybrid sports car and more, the show has a strong Volkswagen Group flavor. Here's a look at some of the most anticipated models in a breaking report.
The Volkswagen Group, as readers likely know, comprises Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche, Bentley, Lamborghini, Bugatti, SEAT, Škoda, and even the motorcycle brand Ducati.
The Passat's plug-in hybrid, the "GTE," combines a 1.4-liter engine with an electric motor, offering 50km of electric-only driving in front-wheel drive.
The "XL Sport," powered by a 1199cc Ducati V-twin engine, boasts a top speed of 270 km/h.
Audi'sTT Sportback Concept"TT Sportback Concept," while not yet confirmed for production, is equipped with a 400ps 2-liter four-cylinder engine.
Ducati Corse President Claudio Domenicali presents the retro-styled Ducati Scrambler (803cc).
The group has recently reaffirmed its commitment to environmental initiatives, and at the Paris Motor Show, it is emphasizing its focus on plug-in hybrids (and electric vehicles).
The "e-up!" and the "e-Golf" are electric vehicles, but Paris also saw the announcement of the new Passat plug-in hybrid, the "GTE." Also noteworthy for its fuel efficiency is the "XL Sport," described by VW as "the most efficient super sports car," powered by a Ducati V-twin engine.
Mondial de l'Automobile 2014
From the Paris Motor Show Floor, Vol. 1 (2)
Mondial de l'Automobile 2014
From the Paris Motor Show Floor, Vol. 1 (2)
Lamborghini's New Concept Garners Attention
Drawing significant press attention was the concept model unveiled by Lamborghini, the "Asterion LP910-4" Its 5.2-liter V10 drives the rear wheels, while two electric motors power the front, delivering a combined output of 910ps, as indicated by its name.
"The Asterion is named after the Minotaur, a creature from Greek mythology that was half-man, half-bull. This car can also run in EV mode for up to 50km, reducing its environmental impact while maintaining sufficient competitiveness on the track," stated Lamborghini CEO Stephan Winkelmann at the unveiling.
Lamborghini's "Asterion LPI 910-4," exploring the future of sports cars with its plug-in hybrid technology.
The VW "Tristar Pickup" features a 2-liter diesel engine and a unique pull-out storage space beneath the cargo bed.
The Bentley "Mulsanne Speed," a luxury saloon powered by a 6.5-liter V8 engine producing 537ps and 1,100Nm.
Inside Porte de Versailles station, near the show venue, the walls are covered with posters of the Passat.
As seen with Porsche's "918 Spyder", even super sports cars are going hybrid. This reflects the current thinking of the Volkswagen Group, according to Dr. Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG.
"The demands on cars are constantly increasing, driven by the digital transformation in all aspects of life, the need to address environmental issues, and the simultaneous pursuit of sportiness. However, we welcome these challenges. Meeting consumer demands is essential for our survival as a company."
Further details on other notable models appearing at the Paris Motor Show will be provided in subsequent reports.