Volkswagen Passat Hybrids Claim Urban EV Credentials
Hybrid powertrains steal the limelight with the global debut of the ninth generation Volkswagen Passat boasting a 62-mile electric only range that earn it EV status in several city authorities.
The vehicle, in this generation only available as a station wagon, will see two completely new plug-in hybrid drives (eHybrid) with a system output of 150 kW (201bhp) and 200 kW (268bhp). It employs a 19.7 kWh battery pack which, beyond the larger all-electric capability, also allows shorter charging times because the battery can now be charged at AC charge points with 11 kW instead of the previous 3.6 kW. It can also be charged with up to 50 kW at DC fast charging stations. In addition, the combination of electric drive motor and new 1.5-liter twin-scroll turbocharged gasoline engine claims an overall touring range of about 600 miles.
Other powertrain options include a 48-volt mild hybrid system using a 1.5-liter TSI gasoline engine with a combined power output of 110 kW (148bhp) that transforms kinetic energy into electric energy and makes it possible to “coast” without using the combustion engine. A 2.0-liter TSI 150 kW (201bhp) turbo gasoline engine for the R-Line complete the powertrain range in European markets. An automatic direct shift gearbox (DSG) is always standard.
Kai Grünitz, member of the brand board of management responsible for technical development, said: “The latest evolutionary stage of the modular transverse matrix (MQB evo) forms the highly innovative technical basis of the ninth Passat generation. Thanks to the significant economies of scale of the MQB evo, Volkswagen has again democratized numerous high-tech developments and made them available for hundreds of thousands of drivers.”
— Paul Myles is a seasoned automotive journalist based in Europe. Follow him on Twitter @Paulmyles_ and Threads
