Volkswagen Beetle Goes Electric

VW Electric BeetleThe iconic VW Beetle is getting an overhaul. Autocar reports that the brand is considering an all-electric model which will also call back to the Beetle’s roots as a rear-wheel drive vehicle. Like the Beetles of the past, which featured a rear engine in its trunk and rear wheel drive, this new electric Beetle would feature a rear-located powertrain as well as rear wheel drive.

This would compliment the new Volkswagen Microbus that the company previewed at the Detroit Auto Show this year. The bus was a concept vehicle based on the ID Buzz Concept. It promises to feature configurable seating, interactive connectivity, and a small footprint. Not only will the all-electric vehicle offer a 270 mile driving range, but Level 3 driving autonomy as well.

VW seems to currently be undergoing a huge push for electric vehicles, and they’re teasing a new “emotional” approach in their concept designs. Chairman Herbert Diess previously hinted at the prospect of both an all-electric Beetle and an electric Volkswagen Thing, an iconic model which previously appeared in the US for only 2 years. Both of these vehicles would utilize the brand’s MEB platform, which would allow for a refresh of several iconic vehicles simultaneously. However, he stressed that the VW all-electric Beetle has yet to be confirmed. The brand is awaiting a board vote on its electric car range before it moves forward.

“We have a good chance on the electric side. You can do derivatives efficiently. We have a very flexible platform. We can do nice things: rear-wheel drive, front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive,” he said.

Diess said that the MEB platform will support the redesign of 15 cars onto an electric platform simultaneously, with five of them slated to be part of the Volkswagen brand. The ID hatchback and the ID Crozz Concept have already been promised for the European market.

Volkswagen Once Again Considering Low-Cost Brand

Volkswagen Once Again Considering Low-Cost BrandWith the successful launch of the Renault Nissan Mitsubishi Alliance’s Dacia brand, Volkswagen has been considering a low-cost brand manufactured abroad for several years. This was one of the driving factors between their purchase of a sizable stake in Suzuki, which has a significant manufacturing brand in India. However, that partnership dissolved in 2015.

Low Cost Volvo Brand In The Works

Now they’ve turned their attention to China, where they plan on introducing a budget brand within the next two years. The brand will roll out with a sedan, which is priced starting at $10,500, with 2 SUVs to follow by 2021.

VW will be partnering with local brand FAW to produce this budget line of cars. Though the initial launch will be focused on China, they do plan to expand to other nations in the years that follow–though it is unlikely to reach the US. However, unlike other brands that have pulled their production out of India, VW does plan to continue brand development there, through the Skoda brand. Skoda is produced through a partnership with a company known as Tata, which released a compact sedan called the Racemo at Geneva in March of 2017.

Old Deals Close as New Ones Open

All this follows the messy dissolution of VW’s partnership with Suzuki. Though that relationship–where VW took a 19.9% stake in Suzuki–began with promise, bickering over business deals, such as Suzuki’s purchase of automaker Fiat, eventually led the companies to arbitration at the International Court of Arbitration in London. There, the arbitrator demanded that VW sell back their share in Suzuki, after they had refused to comply with the Japanese company’s initial requests. However, the arbitrator also found that Suzuki was in breach of their own contract, so they were asked to pay VW back for damages.

But Volkswagen has emphasized that this new deal is not related to either the prior deal with Suzuki or their deal with Tata to produce the Skoda brand.

“This is India and this is not a budget car for China,” says Dr. Frank Welsch, speaking for VW. “This is different and I cannot comment what Skoda is doing.”

Volkswagen Opens Wide for Discovery Shark Week

For the sixth consecutive year, Volkswagen is partnering with the Discovery Channel to sponsor their popular Shark Week. This year, Volkswagen will build on the excitement surrounding Shark Week with their Land of Sharks–a cross country journey in their seven-seater Volkswagen Atlas.

VW Showcasing 2018 Atlas SEL

The 2018 Atlas SEL Premium fits families of all sizes. With third row seating, a variety of high tech features (including a Fender Premium audio system, the Volkswagen digital cockpit, and available Volkswagen app-connect, its sure to please the most tech savvy members of your family. It includes robust safety features as well, such as the Automatic post-collision braking system, and a 72,000 mile or six year warranty.

Volkswagen Opens Wide for Discovery Shark WeekLand of Sharks will take Shark fanatics on a cross-country journey, following a family on a road trip across America in their Atlas, visiting sites once occupied by prehistoric sharks. Three 60-second vignettes will follow the family first to an archaeological site, then to a research lab, and then finally to an encounter with present-day sharks. It was Volkswagen’s agency of record Deutsch and produced by Discovery Channel.

To supplement these ads, Volkswagen has created a unique online component which utilizes Google Street View. Shark Week viewers will be able to view their own neighborhood as inhabited by prehistoric sharks at http://landofsharks.com.

Volkswagen Is Excited To Team Up

“Volkswagen is excited to continue our sponsorship of Discovery Channel’s SHARK WEEK for the sixth year,” said Jennifer Clayton, Director of Brand and Marketing Communications, Volkswagen of America. “This year’s cross-country journey to explore oceans of the past provides an ideal platform to show the versatility and spaciousness of the all-new 2018 Volkswagen Atlas.”

“Discovery Channel is proud to be working with Volkswagen for six consecutive years on SHARK WEEK, TV’s must-see summer event,” added Mark Lewis, VP Ad Sales Marketing, Discovery Communications. “Discovery Channel and Volkswagen are both advocates of innovation and exploration, and the all-new Atlas was a perfect fit for this year’s programming as we ventured across the deserts of the United States to explore the ancient oceans and its sharks.”

VW in Hot Water for Violating Emissions Standards

VW in Hot Water for Violating Emissions StandardsFor years, Volkswagen has promoted their “clean diesel” energy standards. This alternative to hybrid and electric cars has been wildly successful, with VW now taking 70-percent of the US diesel market, but researchers recently discovered that some of the company’s claims were falsified.

According to the EPA and the California Air Resources Board, VW installed “defeat devices” in their cars. These devices switched the cars between two distinct operating modes. In test modes, all cars would operate below federal emission standards. But when switched to operating modes, exhaust-gas recirculation, fuel pressure, and injection timing were significantly altered. This gave drivers a better driving experience (as they could achieve better fuel mileage and higher power) but created nitrogen-oxygen emissions up to 40 times over the federal limits.

Though there is no current recall, VW has admitted to violating federal emissions standards, which could mean that some states (including California) may refuse to re-register cars until a fix is produced. Additionally, VW is currently barred from selling new diesel vehicles except for certain 2015 models.

For current owners of impacted 2.0 liter vehicles, Volkswagen is offering a 10 billion dollar buyback program. Depending on model, age and trim, owners can sell their cars back to VW for a sum between $12,500 and $44,000. For those who prefer to keep their vehicles, VW is offering between  $5100 and $10,000 to compensate for loss of value, plus a free emissions fix. Owners have until May 2018 to decide which option they’ll choose.

Additionally, Bosch–who developed the emissions software–is offering owners a $350 settlement, a portion of a larger $327.5 million settlement with the software manufacturer. Lessees are eligible to receive $200.

VW also has a separate settlement program for owners of 3.0 liter vehicles, which differs substantially from the 10 million dollar. Owners of 2009–2012 Audi Q7 and Volkswagen Touareg models with the Generation 1 engine are eligible for buybacks between $24,755 to $57,157. There is no option to repair the emissions system because the systems in these vehicles cannot be repaired.

In early 2017, the Justice Department arrested 6 VW executives who were implicated in the scandal and ordered a $14.7 billion settlement. VW will be monitored for 3 years as part of the conditions for its probation.

Volkswagen Golf Gets a Redesign

Exciting news from the New York Auto Show: Volkswagen’s popular Golf model is getting a 2018 redesign. Following the mid-year upgrades to the 2017 eGolf, VW is offering standard Golf upgrades both inside and out. Both the base Golf and other models such as the Alltrack, SportWagen, GTI and Golf R will have added value for the next model year.

This new redesign features new chrome grille accents, LED tail lights, daytime running lights as a standard feature, and a front bumper in a hot new shape. Previous Golf models offered optional Bi-Xenon headlamps, but the new LED lights will be standard for the GTI SE/Autobahn and Golf R models. New color options and interior trims will be available, as well as standard redesigned alloy wheels and a bigger interior touch screen, which will be either 6.5 or 8 inches, depending on the model. The Golf R will be especially well-appointed, featuring VW’s driver-selectable Digital Cockpit instrument cluster.

Most importantly, Volkswagen proves once again that they care about driver safety. The 2018 Golf will feature autonomous emergency braking, a blind spot monitor, optional front assist with pedestrian monitoring, and forward collision warning. For the upgraded models, VW will also offer park steering assist, park distance control, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise, and high beam control, not to mention keyless access and an upgraded Fender Premium Audio system.

But Volkswagen knows not to mess with success: the powertrain upgrades to the 2018 models are modest. Like the 2017 Golf, all models come standard with 170 hp and an 1.8 liter turbocharged TSI 4-cylinder engine. But VW has now added a standard Performance Package which bumps the 2.0-liter turbocharged TSI engine from 210 to 220 hp. Pricing has yet to be announced for any model; it’s expected to be released closer to the 2018 Golf’s fall launch date.

A New Flag Bearer for Volkswagen

While many of the models Volkswagen has shown us as new items lately have been geared toward the electric propulsion they’re working on, a new flagship sedan is on its way to dealers.  This new model is called the Arteon and will be offered in the US in the middle of 2018 as a new 2019 model.  This car might carry the CC name which we’re familiar with and it’s a luxury level sedan from a name we trust.

Volkswagen Areton VW Seattle

The new look of the Arteon will show is a dramatic change in this car to give us horizontal slats in the grill, LED headlights, sculpted body panels and a fantastic new look to the rear of the car.  This new car will be offered in a sportier R-Line package as well which brings in custom bumpers and wheels while adding more sport items inside the cabin as well.

On the inside this car looks like a typical VW model with options that you can enjoy and admire.  The most updated infotainment system will be available and give you the benefit of gesture control as one of the more advanced features.  The driver assistance features have been updated to give you the latest versions of each system for this car.

Look for the new Arteon to give you the look and feel you want when it arrives.  This is a car that will make you feel like you have a luxury model without the price.

5 Spring Maintenence Tips

As beautiful and fun as winter can be, the cold and snowy season can be especially rough on your car. The potential for winter sludge to build up and damage your car makes spring the perfect time to bring it in to get a tune up and get you ready for summer travel.

 

Here are five spring car maintenance tips to keep in mind:

 

1. Remove leftover salt

 

The salt used on roads to melt ice and snow can cause serious damage to cars, particularly if it is left on the undercarriage of the vehicle leading to the metal rusting. Thoroughly wash your car to eliminate salt and be sure to spray the undercarriage to remove any potential build up.

 

2. Change oil and check fluids

 

Spring is a great time to get an oil change, especially if you did a lot of driving throughout the winter months. Remember that is recommended to change your oil ever 3,000-5,000 miles, depending on the age of your car.  It is also a good idea to flush your transmission fluid. It is often neglected but can be a very expensive repair so it is better to be proactive.  While you’re at it, don’t forget to top off window washing fluid levels, brake fluid, and coolant.

 

3. Check alignment and suspension

 

Driving over potholes or other winter road imperfections can greatly affect the alignment and suspension of a vehicle. If you happen to notice that your car is pulling to one side or the steering wheel vibrates as your drive, there is a good chance you have a problem. Bring your car in before the problem gets any worse.

 

4. Rotate tires and check air pressure

 

Check your tire pressure, including the spare. Having a spare does you no good if it is also flat. Keeping your car’s tires at optimum air pressure levels can improve the ride, handling, traction, and overall safety. Also, to ensure that the tread of your tires wears evenly, it is best to rotate your tires every 5,000 miles.

 

5. Inspect brakes

 

It is crucial to ensure that your brakes are working properly. Bring your car in to get the pads and rotors checked over to confirm there are no safety issues.

VW Pods of the Future

This article first appeared on bgr.com. It details the potential futuristic “pods” of the future that VW revealed recently at the Geneva Motor Show. These take driverless cars to the next level. Check out these potential vehicles of the future.

Self-driving car concepts are a dime a dozen these days, coming from every corner of the automotive industry and manufacturer. Volkswagen has shown off a couple of its own in the past, but at the Geneva Motor Show this week the company is giving us a glimpse at yet another, and it’s a bit different than the rest. Rather than a traditional automobile that’s been given a brain and autonomous driving powers, Volkswagen’s SEDRIC is like something straight out of Minority Report.

SEDRIC, which is a semi-abbreviation of “SElf DRIving Car,” is like a mobile living room that delivers you to your destination without any need to actually direct the vehicle manually. You get in, sit down, tell the car where you want to go and SEDRIC whisks you away to your desired location. It’s fully electric and features multiple cameras and sensors mounted on the corners of the roof, and the partially enclosed wheels totally make it look like a giant toaster.

volkswagen sedric Seattle

The interior looks more like a limo than a traditional passenger vehicle and has both front- and rear-facing seats. A pair of doors on either side of the car open and slide in opposite directions, and VW added little plant pods to the rear windowsill to complete the whole “zen” aesthetic.

vw sedric seattle

It goes without saying, but the concept is incredibly futuristic and relies on technologies that are a long way from being perfected. As such, it would be a long time before we ever see something like SEDRIC on a city street. Volkswagen knows that too, of course, which is why it’s targeting an extremely wide potential launch window of “2025” for SEDRIC or similar vehicles.

VW’s Theory of Evolution Ad

VW released a witty ad in 1963 discussing the evolution of their iconic VW Beetle. It shows that they weren’t willing to change the design of the vehicle just for the sake of change. Why change a good thing?

The ad reads:

“Can you spot the Volkswagen with the fins? Or the one that’s bigger? Or smaller? Or the one with the fancy chrome work?

You can’t?

The reason you can’t see any revolutionary design changes on our car is simple, there arent’y any.

Now, can you spot the Volkswagen with the synchromesh first gear? Or the one with the more efficient heater? How about the one with the anti-sway bar? Or the more powerful engine?

You can’t?

The reason you cant see most of our evolutionary changes is is because we’ve made them deep down inside the car.

And that’s our theory, never change the VW for the sake of chagne, only to make it better.

That’s what keeps our car ahead of its time. And never out of style.

Even if you aren’t driving the most evolved VW of all.

Our ’63.”

Volkswagen has maintained this theory over the years. They don’t create flashy updates every year solely just to capture attention. Instead, they work to improve the driving capability, technology, and safety features that often go unseen.

 

Check out the ad for yourself below.

Volkswagen EuroCar Service Seattle

VW Recall on 2017 Passat

Volkswagen is recalling particular 2017 Passat vehicles. The reason for the recall is that brake fluid may leak slowly from the some of the brake line connections, resulting in a low brake fluid level.

Low brake fluid level may extend the distance needed to stop the vehicle, increasing the chances of a crash.

Volkswagen will soon notify owners, and dealers will replace the affected brake lines, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in March 2017. 47N3 is the VW recall number.

Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298.

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 or go to www.safercar.gov.