Volkswagon Golf TDI Hybrid
Unveiled in the Geneva Motor show in 2008 was Volkswagen foray into
the alternative fuel for cars market. Unique in the fact the technology
used here is Lithium-ion which up to now was used in the portable
computer and communications industries.
Interesting to see that top execs within Volkswagen see their future
on drive train electrification.
The motoring industry are currently working out the best ways to keep
their businesses alive and Volkswagen have taken the gamble on this
alternative fuel source.
Reading between the lines Volkswagen are not necessarily going alone
into this as they have teamed up with corporate giant Sanyo for
development into the electric future of vehicle travel.
The Golf Hybrid TDI although a concept is reported to achieve
3.4L/100km (83mpg)
At the core of the new Golf TDI Hybrid is a highly-efficient
1.2-litre 3-cylinder common rail TDI diesel engine developing 75PS
(55kW) and 132 lbs ft (179Nm) of torque. 
Working either in tandem with the diesel engine or, if required, on
its own, is an electric motor developing 27PS (20kW) and 103 lbs ft
(140Nm) of torque. The electric motor also replaces the conventional
starter motor and alternator to save weight and improve packaging.
It can also operate as a generator, recovering kinetic energy from the
car during braking to charge the 220 volt, 45kg nickel metal hydride
battery which has a capacity of 1.4 kW hours.
Hyundai Elantra Hybrid 2009
Toyota Prius Hybrid
Hydrogen Honda FCX Clarity |
