VW unwraps Golf Twin Drive plug-in hybrid prototype

As the rising fuel prices keeps on pinching the consumer’s pockets, Volkswagen, the leading auto producer of Europe aptly released upgraded Golf Twin-Drive plug-in hybrid auto. A prototype of plug-in hybrid, this latest version almost follows Volkswagen Golf Twin Drive hatchback, released in 2008. Facing a tiff competition from international peers, this is the first plug-in hybrid auto released by this reputed European auto organization. VW had to launch the next generation hybrid model, as zero emission cars are fast gaining ground in the auto world.

Volkswagen Golf Twin Drive

Volkswagen Golf Twin Drive plug-in hybrid is ready to undergo “Fleet study in electric mobility” test that is to continue till July 2012. The leading auto maker has released a fleet of 20 vehicles for this test before entering into any marketing commitment. Volkswagen, in collaboration with the German government and other project partners, is undergoing testing of electric vehicles that uses renewable energy sources for generating power for electric vehicles producing zero emission while running through urban settlements.

VW Golf Twin Drive plug-in hybrid can drive up to 35 miles under electric-only condition, but a total mileage of 559 miles can be achieved when coupled with the 1.4 liter gasoline engine. The plug-in auto can deliver smooth runs for short drives, and the gasoline cylinder provides the extended power when the batteries run down.

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Volkswagen Golf Twin Drive

Golf Twin Drive Plug-in Hybrid Prototype by Volkswagen

VW Golf Twin Drive delivers a fair power output of 85 KW with electric motor. When twinned with the 1.4 liter gasoline unit, the power out surges to 161 Hp. The auto is equipped with a fast charging 11.2 Kwh or 13.3 Kwh Lithium- ion battery packs, and can be easily charged through domestic power points. Presently, VW is going through trials with advanced high efficiency battery packs from GAIA (American-German manufacturer) and SBLiMotive (Korean- German JV).

The performance of VW Golf Twin Drive is quite appreciable, as it can attain a maximum speed of 106 mph and accelerate from 0 to 60 mph within 12 seconds. It can reach a maximum 75 mph when running only in electric motor. The fuel efficiency of this plug-in hybrid is estimated to about 2.1 liters/100 km or 112 miles/gallon.

VW plug-in hybrid is launched with a sole aim to produce zero emission vehicles that can be used conveniently for regular short and longer trips providing a “greener environment”. The manufacturer has emphasized in providing high performance electric motor in this “green vehicle” that will reduce fuel costs to a great extent. The price of VW Golf Twin Drive is yet to be announced, but auto lovers can expect a fleet in the showrooms after the tests and trials by 2012 end.

Source: Autoblog