Powertrains

SunFuel® follows the natural carbon cycle


The aim of our Powertrain Strategy is to develop technological solutions that will, in the long term, provide the basis for largely carbon-neutral private transport. The first steps on the way to achieving that will be to make further improvements to the efficient powertrain technologies we are already offering today. These technologies are helping our customers make the most efficient possible use of petrol and diesel fuel and so reduce their CO2 emissions. In parallel, we are also developing new power plants capable of running on second-generation biofuels, natural gas, hydrogen and electricity. Step by step, therefore, we are moving towards ever more environmentally responsible and climate-friendly powertrain solutions.

"BlueMotion" and "e" – hallmarks of our most fuel-efficient models
Our new high-fuel-efficiency models provide the best of both worlds – they are not only very economical, they are also fun to drive. To allow as many drivers as possible to share in these benefits, we shall be offering one of these extra-fuel-efficient versions in every model series. This will give many different types of user an opportunity and incentive to purchase an environmentally friendly vehicle. Numerous models bearing the "BlueMotion" (Volkswagen) or "e" (Audi) label have already made their debut. 
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Internal combustion engines for the future
Our popular TDI direct-injection diesel engines led the way. Now direct injection is also available in our petrol range, in the models codenamed TSI and TFSI. As a result, the Group can now offer fuel-efficient engine technologies in a whole spectrum of vehicle classes. At the same time we are also working on the Combined Combustion System (CCS), which will eventually combine the principles of both types of engine into a single concept. 
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Quicker gear changes save energy
A further fuel-efficient technology, which we are using in more and more of our models, is the Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) with twin clutch. This gearbox combines the advantages of manual and automatic transmissions and is notable for its smooth, uninterrupted power delivery. 
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Pioneers of lightweight design
An important approach to fuel efficiency is offered by lightweight vehicle design. Audi is a pioneer and technology leader in the field of aluminium-based lightweight design. Other successful lightweighting techniques used by the Volkswagen Group include the use of plastics, extremely high-tensile steels and new soldering techniques. 
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Reduced CO2 emissions with natural gas
Complementing our range of petrol and diesel engines, we are also developing alternative powertrain solutions. One of various transitional solutions we have identified on the way to the carbon-free powertrain is natural gas. In 2006 Volkswagen launched what is already Germany's best-selling natural gas vehicle.
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Hybrid drive: two power sources under one bonnet
We are also working on the commercialisation of hybrid technology. Here we have to differentiate between different application scenarios. In urban operation in particular, hybrid vehicles can have significant advantages over vehicles with just one power source. 
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Hydrogen points the way
The next step on the way to a non-fuel-burning powertrain will be provided by ever higher-performance batteries. For the time being however, batteries will require on-board recharging to extend their range. This task will be performed by hydrogen fuel cells – when this technology is matured.
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Electricity – the clean energy source
Complete powertrain electrification is the most elegant mobility solution for the future. The electricity could be derived from a wide range of primary energy feedstocks. Such a powertrain would reduce carbon dioxide and pollutant emissions to a very low level. With this in mind, we are carrying out intensive development work on new battery generations. 
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