Auto Channel

In a German government project called “Fleet test: electric drive vehicles”, VW revealed yesterday a Golf prototype with a plug-in hybrid drive engine of the next generation called “TwinDrive”. The research project tests the efficient use of renewable energy sources in transportation with 20 test vehicles using TwinDrive technology.

The core objectives of the research project are not only to improve fuel economy but to also enable driving in urban areas by electrical power only using renewable energy. Therefore, the electric motors of the test fleet should only be driven by electricity generated from renewable energy sources (wind, water and solar power).

Initiated by the German government, the project has put together an alliance of eight Germany industry giants in collaboration. Assuming leadership of the project, “Volkswagen will be investing double-digit millions in advanced development of this technology,” according to VW Chairman, Prof. Dr. Winterkorn. The German Federal Ministry for the Environment is also committing millions of Euros for the large-scale study that runs until 2012.

Federal Environment Minister Sigmar Gabriel states, “The test fleet test can make a significant contribution in unifying mobility and climate protection as a result of the close cooperation of partners from the automotive, battery and energy producing industries.” Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn reaffirmed, “For the first time ever, energy producers and consumers are merging to form an even more powerful alliance. If this fleet test is a success, that would be a positive signal for worldwide climate protection.”Read All Article