Geneva: Volkswagen’s 69 MPG Golf Diesel Hybrid Concept Will Inspire Production Version!

Yes that’s right; Volkswagen officially stated that the Golf TDI Hybrid is likely to inspire a production vehicle in the near future. Apparently, the production model will be based on the next generation Golf which is expected to be introduced at the end of the year. At the core of the Golf TDI Hybrid is a 1.2-litre 3-cylinder TDI diesel engine developing 75 Hp and 132 lbs ft of torque combined with an electric and the very latest generation of the 7-speed DSG gearbox.

Working either in tandem with the diesel engine or, on its own, the electric motor generates and extra 27 Hp but more importantly, 103 lbs ft of torque. The electric motor also operates as a generator, recovering kinetic energy from the car during braking thus charghing the 220 volt, 45 kg nickel metal hydride battery. -Continued

When driving, the electric motor powers the vehicle from standstill with the diesel engine engaging only should additional acceleration be required or at higher speeds. Under these circumstances the diesel engine takes over with the electric motor kicking in only if required to supplement the combustion engine – for example, during overtaking. When at a standstill the diesel unit shuts down completely. According to VW, the Golf TDI Hybrid achieves an impressive 69 MPG or 3,4 lt of diesel per 100 km on the combined circle emitting just 89 g/km of CO2.

Volkswagen’s engineers have also intervened with the Golf’s aerodynamics by adding a new, unique grille design and smaller front air intakes while the TDI Hybrid also sits lower than the standard Golf on revised suspension and adopts the front splitter from the Golf GTI Edition 30 to help further reduce aerodynamic drag. A unique interior further distinguishes the Golf TDI Hybrid from the conventional vehicle.