Volkswagen has entered into a cooperation with the German start-up Revoltech GmbH from Darmstadt. The aim is to research and develop sustainable materials based on industrial hemp. These could be used as a sustainable surface material in Volkswagen models from 2028. The material made from 100% bio-based hemp uses residues of the regional hemp industry. It can be produced on existing industrial plants and recycled or composted at the end of its service life in an automobile. The first presentations of the innovative material have already received a very positive response and feedback from customers.

Kai Grünitz, Volkswagen Brand Board Member for Technical Development: “In our search for new materials, we are very open to new ideas from many different industries. At Technical Development, we place a strong focus on innovative, creative and sustainable solutions for holistic, resource-saving vehicle development.”

Andreas Walingen, Head of Strategy at the Volkswagen brand: “The sustainable use of resources is a key pillar in our ACCELERATE strategy and is therefore firmly anchored in our mindset and our actions. Our clear goal is to fuse customer wishes, sustainability requirements and corporate interests.” He added that the cooperation between Revoltech and Volkswagen was a good example of the benefits for start-ups and established companies to be gained from the targeted combination of their respective strengths – with the goal of getting new features ready for use in automobiles as swiftly as possible.

Lucas Fuhrmann, CEO and co-founder Revoltech GmbH:
“Our innovative surface material called LOVR™ that we are developing and testing for the automotive industry in cooperation with Volkswagen is scalable and groundbreaking for sustainability in the automotive sector.”

100% bio-based leather alternative from industrial hemp
Together with the Revoltech GmbH start-up, the predevelopment team at the Volkswagen brand is working on a material innovation as a substitute for imitation leather. This material made from what is known as industrial hemp cultivated for the food industry is an all-natural, 100% biological single-layer surface material called LOVRTM (the letters stand for leather-free, oil-free, vegan and residue-based) that is being developed specifically with the automotive industry in mind. The hemp fibers and a fully bio-based adhesive are combined using a special technology and processed to become a surface material. This truly circular material is sourced from regional hemp fields and is fully recyclable or compostable once it has reached the end of its service life. It is produced from residues of the hemp industry that have no further use. In addition, it can be manufactured on existing industrial plants, thus enabling swift scalability – and is therefore also suitable for use in large-scale production. 

Volkswagen’s Materials Technology, Design, and Components Development departments, Volkswagen Group Innovation and the Revoltech GmbH start-up are bundling their know-how to include as many perspectives as possible in the development work. Potential applications are being identified in collaboration with Components Development. Possible use in vehicle projects from 2028 is envisaged. The material has received very positive feedback in customer surveys.

Article source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com

Volkswagen is upping the ante by launching a new, even sportier version of the ID.3 GTX. In addition to the ID.3 GTX03, which delivers 210 kW (285 PS), the new ID.3 GTX Performance with 240 kW (326 PS) is now also available to order. This means that the electric compact sports car is equipped with Volkswagen’s most powerful electric drive motor. Both GTX versions effortlessly convert their power into traction on the rear axle. The body and chassis layout offers significant benefits here: with the new 79 kWh battery (net) located in the sandwich floor and precisely in the centre of the vehicle, this design offers a sporty low centre of gravity and ideal axle load distribution for driving dynamics and vehicle handling that guarantees plenty of fun.

Kai Grünitz, Member of the Volkswagen Brand Board of Management responsible for Development, says: “With its spontaneous and superior power delivery, the new ID.3 GTX Performance is for me the electric counterpart to our sporty compact car icon, the Golf GTI Clubsport04. Of course, an electric drive and a turbocharged petrol engine each have their own unique character. Yet the ID.3 GTX Performance and the Golf GTI Clubsport share the same fascinating lightness when they accelerate.”

Powerful engine, large battery and high charging capacity. The ID.3 GTX Performance is the first model to feature an enhanced version of the Volkswagen Performance drive system. Here the output could be increased from 210 kW (ID.3 GTX) to 240 kW (ID.3 GTX Performance). The electric drive motor produces a maximum torque of 545 Nm for both output ratings – thus exceeding the drive power of the most powerful Volkswagen V6 turbocharged engines. In the GTX Performance version, the ID.3 packs a powerful punch, sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds. The drive is not electronically limited until 200 km/h – a first for the ID. family.

The energy comes from a 79 kWh lithium-ion battery (net), which absorbs up to 185 kW05 of power at DC quick-charging stations thanks to innovative charging and thermal management with battery pre-conditioning. The battery can be charged from 10 to 80 per cent again in about 26 minutes. The ID.3 GTX Performance’s WLTP range is up to 601 km06.

Sports DCC for the top-of-the-line version. The GTX-specific running gear is equipped with stronger stabilisers and is tuned to the drive system’s very high performance. The basic layout consists of a MacPherson front axle and a five-link rear axle with a sophisticated guidance system. The progressive steering system, which has been adapted to the ID.3 GTX, is fitted as standard. The ID.3 GTX Performance can also be equipped with the modified Sport DCC adaptive chassis control. The newly configured Vehicle Dynamics Manager uses more sensor signals than before. As a result, the system is able to better detect how the wheels and body are moving in order to control the shock absorbers accordingly by means of refined algorithms. This ensures precise handling and perfect roadholding – and not just in sporty driving situations.

Sporty GTX design. The ID.3 GTX and the new ID.3 GTX Performance differ from the other models in the product line with their special design elements. The GTX-specific front bumper features a new independent black air intake in a diamond-style design and customised signature light. The 20-inch Skagen GTX wheel rim is available completely in black as an option. A host of GTX-specific features also customise the vehicle interior.

Simple and intuitive operation. The new ID.3 GTX Performance comes with the latest generation of software and infotainment system with a 12.9-inch (32.8-centimetre) display, the IDA voice assistant with ChatGPT and an improved, intuitive operating concept. In addition, optional features such as the enhanced augmented reality head-up display, a redesigned Wellness app and the premium sound system from Harman Kardon are available.

Standard systems. The ID.3 GTX already has a wide range of state-of-the-art assist systems as standard to ensure comfort and safety on board. These include the cruise control system (can be extended to Adaptive Cruise Control ACC by an upgrade), Autonomous Emergency Braking (Front Assist) with pedestrian and cyclist monitoring, lane keeping system Lane Assist, oncoming vehicle braking when turning function and Dynamic Road Sign Display. Also included as standard: the Car2X traffic hazard alert function.

Systems such as Connected Travel Assist with online data utilisation are optionally available. This system enables assisted longitudinal and lateral guidance07 over the entire speed range as well as assisted lane changing07 on motorways. In addition, lane guidance without detected lane markings is possible if online data is available07.

The new ID.3 GTX is available from € 52.295* incl. VAT.

*The price refers to the German market. Volkswagen currently offers the Volkswagen scrappage scheme with a value of €3,570 for all ID. models.

Article source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com

01. ID.3 GTX Performance - Combined power consumption 16.5-14.7 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions 0 g/km; CO₂ class: A. Where ranges are stated, the values for consumption, CO₂ emissions and CO₂ classes depend on the selected vehicle equipment

02. Optional equipment

03. ID.3 GTX - Combined power consumption 15.1–14.5 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 0 g/km; CO2 class: A. Where ranges are stated, the values for consumption, CO₂ emissions and CO₂ classes depend on the selected vehicle equipment

04. Golf GTI Clubsport - Combined WLTP fuel consumption: 7.4 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 168 g/km Where ranges are stated, the values for consumption, CO₂ emissions and CO₂ classes depend on the selected vehicle equipment

05. Maximum possible charging capacity. The charging behaviour of different charging stations can differ, even if their kW capacity is the same. In addition to a charging station’s kW output, the maximum charge current also influences the amount of energy that flows. Furthermore, the ambient temperature, battery temperature and charge level influence the maximum possible charging capacity. The specified maximum charging capacity is calculated under WLTP conditions at a temperature of approx. 23 °C and a charge level from five per cent. If these variables change, the charging capacity may deviate from the specified standard value

06. Range determined on the rolling road test bed in accordance with the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP) in the most range-favourable equipment variant. The actual WLTP range values may differ depending on the equipment. The actual range achieved under real conditions varies depending on the driving style, speed, use of comfort features or auxiliary equipment, outside temperature, number of passengers/load, topography and the ageing and wear process of the battery

07. Within the system limits, the driver must always be ready to override the assist system and is not released from the responsibility of driving the vehicle with due care and attention

08. ID.3 GTX - Combined power consumption 15,1-14.5 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 0 g/km; CO2 class: A. Information on consumption, CO2-emissions and CO2 classes in ranges depending on the selected vehicle equipment

The sportiest Golf models from Volkswagen can now be ordered in a new look and with a host of additional features. Customers can choose between the front-wheel drive Golf GTI Clubsport and three all-wheel drive versions: the classic Golf R, the spacious Golf R Variant and the exclusive Golf R Black Edition special model. All four models offer the perfect mix of extreme sportiness, comfort and everyday usability. The Golf GTI Clubsport is available from 48,075 euros in Germany and the Golf R from 53,795 euros. The Golf R Variant can be configured and ordered from 55,065 euros. Prices for the exclusive Golf R Black Edition, which is completely in black, start from 58,440 euros.

The new models are based on the eighth generation of the Golf, which was significantly upgraded this year. The new Performance versions feature a sharpened and distinctive exterior design (including an illuminated VW badge at the front) as well as an enhanced interior. They additionally offer an intuitive operating concept (including ChatGPT), powerful drive systems with impressive performance values and high-end sports suspension. Optional equipment packages05 are available for motorsport enthusiasts that allow special driving profiles to be selected for the race track and the top speed to be increased, for example, or that offer features such as GPS lap timer and G-meter.

Most powerful GTI – with front differential lock as standard. The new Golf GTI Clubsport was unveiled a few weeks ago as part of the legendary 24-hour race at the Nürburgring. This clearly shows that this Volkswagen is also at home on the race track. Its turbocharged engine delivers a torque of 400 Nm and an output of 221 kW (300 PS), and this power is transferred to the road by the electronically controlled front differential lock equipped as standard. The top speed of the most powerful GTI is electronically limited to 250 km/h. However, this limit can be lifted with the Race package05 – which raises the top speed to 267 km/h. A large roof spoiler at the rear ensures maximum downforce. In addition, the Golf GTI Clubsport comes as standard with the selectable Special driving mode, which ensures optimum performance on the Nürburgring and optimises the engine, gearbox and suspension for fast laps on the Nordschleife.

Golf R models with R-Performance torque vectoring. The all-wheel-drive models Golf R, Golf R Variant and the Black Edition special model impress with optimised driving dynamics, exclusive standard equipment and an output of 245 kW (333 PS). This is an increase of 10 kW (14 PS) compared with the predecessors. The times for the classic sprint from 0 to 100 km/h have thus been shortened to 4.6 and 4.8 seconds (Variant) respectively. The top speed of 250 km/h can be boosted to 270 km/h with the R-Performance package05. This makes these Golf R versions the world’s fastest Volkswagen production models, alongside the Arteon R Shooting Brake06.

Dynamic Chassis Control for driving comfort and dynamics. In addition to power and rich sound, the Golf R models offer maximum performance – and also convey a genuine motorsport feeling. Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) – fitted as standard in vehicles sold in Germany – is a technology that continuously reacts to the road surface and driving situation, while taking account of various elements including steering, braking and acceleration manoeuvres. DCC therefore always provides the highest level of driving comfort and optimum driving dynamics. Up to seven driving profiles are available to choose from. With the Special driving profile, which is specially designed for driving on the Nürburgring Nordschleife, the DCC is also adapted to the conditions of this legendary race circuit. All those who want to drift on secured terrain can activate the special Drift mode.

The exclusive Black Edition special model. Elegant, sporty and unmistakeable: as the name suggests, the new Golf R Black Edition comes with a consistently black design, including darkened headlights, Volkswagen badges and R logos, black exhaust tailpipe trims and a dark wheel profile. The model is equipped as standard with the R-Performance package and IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights. A larger roof spoiler through which the air flow is routed, providing additional downforce.

Also available for the Golf GTI Clubsport, Golf R, Golf R Variant and Golf R Black Edition: the optional titanium exhaust system from Akrapovič, which ensures an even more individual sound.

Article source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com

01. Golf GTI Clubsport - combined energy consumption: 7.8-7.5 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 178-171 g/km; CO₂ class(es): G-F. Information on consumption, CO2-emissions and CO2 classes in ranges depending on the selected vehicle equipment

02. Golf R - combined energy consumption: 8.5-8.1 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 193-184 g/km; CO₂ class(es): G. Information on consumption, CO2-emissions and CO2 classes in ranges depending on the selected vehicle equipment

03. Golf R Variant - combined energy consumption: 8.5-8.2 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 193-185 g/km; CO₂ class(es): G. Information on consumption, CO2-emissions and CO2 classes in ranges depending on the selected vehicle equipment

04. Golf R Black Edition - combined energy consumption: 8.5- 8.2 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 193-186 g/km; CO₂ class(es): G. Information on consumption, CO2-emissions and CO2 classes in ranges depending on the selected vehicle equipment

05. Optional equipment

06. Arteon R Shooting Brake - combined energy consumption: 8.9-8.6 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions 203-195 g/km; CO₂ class: G. Where ranges are stated, the values for consumption and CO₂ emissions depend on the selected vehicle equipment

07. Golf GTI - combined energy consumption 7.3-7.1 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions 167-162 g/km; CO₂ class: F. Information on consumption, CO₂ emissions and CO₂ classes in ranges depending on the selected vehicle equipment

It is almost time for the car lovers’ social event of the year in Wolfsburg: the GTI fan festival will take place around the Volkswagen Arena from 26 to 28 July. In addition to vehicle presentations, stage shows and club meets, there will also be numerous highlights and surprises for GTI and Volkswagen fans and their families inspired by the motto ‘Icons Coming Home’. A one-day ticket costs EUR 19.76, but a three-day VIP ticket is also available. For Friday afternoon, an additional Sundowner ticket will also be available for EUR 8.50 from 3:00 pm. Admission is free for children and young people under the age of 18. All information about the event and the ticket shop can be found on the event website www.volkswagen.de/gtifanfest.

Anticipation is half the pleasure. And when the international GTI family comes together, the pleasure is all the greater. “The three letters GTI are legendary in the automotive world. And the GTI Treffen event has also become a cult event over the decades. It is important to us that we offer the international GTI community a new home in Wolfsburg, the heart of our brand,” says Thomas Schäfer, CEO of the Volkswagen brand. “I am particularly pleased that we will be holding the first large GTI meet in a new format in Wolfsburg exactly 50 years after the first Golf left the assembly line in Wolfsburg. GTI community, Golf and Wolfsburg – the perfect fit!”

A party created for fans and by fans. For three days, the area around the Volkswagen Arena will be transformed into a GTI Fan City. More than 700 GTI and R owners will present their vehicles and their history. Prominent GTI fans, such as Volkswagen’s Head of Design Andreas Mindt, or motorsport legends Benny Leuchter, Strietzel Stuck and Jochi Kleint, will be on site and share their very personal GTI anecdotes with the community in expert talks. Sarah Elsser and car enthusiast and tuning expert Philipp Kaess will participate in Wolfsburg as a presenter duo. There is already a huge amount of anticipation as visitors from all over the world are expected.

Numerous model highlights from almost 50 years of GTI history. In September 1975, Volkswagen presented the first Golf GTI01 at the IAA – it was the beginning of a success story spanning decades. GTI models from all eight Golf generations, as well as GTI versions of the Lupo01, Polo02 and up!01, will therefore be on display at the fan festival around the VfL Wolfsburg stadium. In addition, Volkswagen will provide a glimpse into the brand’s all-electric future with the sporty GTX variants of the ID. models and the presentation of the ID. GTI Concept

Plenty for tuning enthusiasts to look forward to. Influencer Jean Pierre Kraemer (‘JP Performance’) will showcase his 'Thunder Bunny’ at the GTI fan festival. In addition, the event will feature special Volkswagen show cars, a selection of the most spectacular models from Volkswagen Motorsport, as well as trainee vehicles that Volkswagen trainees have modified over months of work. On Sunday afternoon, around 200 GTI and R models will put on a spectacular treat for the eyes and ears during a car parade across the plant site. There will also be a mobile performance test bench in the community car park for GTI and R drivers.

A host of highlights for the fans. When designing the event programme, particular emphasis was placed on taking into account the wishes of the fans and implementing ideas from the community. This includes, for example, sneaker customisation: a shoe designer from the community has developed special GTI designs for white sneakers. Visitors to the GTI Meet can buy these collector’s items at his stand. Alternatively, visitors can bring their own sneakers and have them given a finishing touch on site. Food trucks, the famous Volkswagen currywurst, as well as DJs and live music are also part of the GTI fan festival. On Saturday evening, singer-songwriter Michael Schulte will give a live concert in the Autostadt. Volkswagen Accessories & Lifestyle will also present numerous new products such as the new GTI Collection and a specially wrapped GTI Clubsport equipped with accessories, which has been specially designed for the event. One lifestyle highlight for fans is the GTI sneaker, which is available exclusively at the GTI fan festival: a limited-edition design with a GTI logo and red laces.

Special activities for kids. Numerous activities for children will also be offered over the entire event area. In addition to a kids trail, these include a bungee trampoline, the Sturmkind DR!FT racing simulator, the option to take a stadium tour, the GTI FanCup, wakeboarding on the Arenasee or a driving simulator at Volkswagen R. A number of stalls on the grounds will also offer hands-on activities and entertainment for little ones. In the Wölfli Ecke area, there will be lots of football-related activities for children, which will also be offered without accompanying staff.

Event website with all information about the GTI fan festival. The program starts on Friday from 12 noon, on the other days from 11 a.m. Parking is available for GTI and R model owners as well as community VIP ticket holders in the VIP car parks Nord (P1) and Süd (P2). All other vehicles can be parked in the Nord car park (P3) and in the Tor Ost multi-storey car park. All further information is available on the event page www.volkswagen.de/gtifanfest. Tickets are available here.

Article source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com

01. The vehicle is no longer offered for sale in Germany 02. Polo GTI - Combined energy consumption: 6.8-6.5 l/100 km; CO₂ emissions combined: 156-149 g/km; CO₂ classes: R-E. Information on consumption, CO₂ emissions and CO₂ classes in ranges depending on the selected equipment of the vehicle 03. Concept car