Volkswagen first launched its Golf TwinDrive plug-in hybrid in July 2008 using the company’s fifth-generation Golf as the basis, but, now that the sixth-generation Golf has been launched, VW has released an updated version TwinDrive prototype. The new Golf TwinDrive uses the Golf VI as a platform and is intended to help test the use of alternative energy sources (wind, water and solar).
The Golf TwinDrive is the result of a partnership between VW and the German government – which provided VW with “double-digit millions” for the project – and will help determine how to most efficiently recharge plug-in hybrid vehicles. In all, 20 Golf TwinDrives will be produced for test fleet services.
The Golf TwinDrive can be fitted with diesel of gasoline power plants – in addition to an electric motor – producing a combined output of 176 horsepower. Unlike conventional hybrids, the Golf TwinDrive uses its internal combustion engine to supplement the electric motor rather than the electric motor supplementing the internal combustion engine.
This unique setup allows for the Golf TwinDrive to always be operating in the most efficient mode. According to VW, that means the TwinDrive uses its long range E-motor in city driving and its gas/diesel engine on the open highway.
No mileage figures have been released for the Golf TwinDrive, but a new round of testing is expected to begin in early 2009. If all goes well, VW could release its first plug-in hybrid sometime in 2010.
11/26, 2:19 PM
posted by:
A4
oh look, their government helps.
11/26, 2:26 PM
posted by:
Borat
How is this different from Prius or Honda hybrids?
And yes, their government helped, do you want to pay THEIR taxes? Do you want to live on their level? We may end up like that, but most of us will NOT like it (that is why we are here not there).
11/26, 2:27 PM
posted by:
A4
i already have for 3 years and it was worth it so yeah
11/26, 2:54 PM
posted by:
Z06ified
The Prius and Honda hybrids are not plug-ins.
11/26, 4:25 PM
posted by:
t-ak-box
@Borat
Sometimes you got to pay to play.
11/26, 5:38 PM
posted by:
scratchy
so , how bad is it to live on THEIR level , Borat ?
11/26, 6:08 PM
posted by:
wideopenthrottle
A4, totally different circumstances…
US/Big 3–need money to keep from going bankrupt
Germany/VW–need money to build hybrid concept
11/26, 6:09 PM
posted by:
rzegatl
Yeah Borat, you get what you pay for, which in our case has been not much.