Plug-in hybrid Volkswagen Passat GTE range hits UK showrooms
News
2 Aug 2016
The first Passat with plug-in hybrid drive system emits just 39g of CO2 (combined), equating to fuel economy of 166 mpg.
It is now available to order through the Volkswagen UK retailer network with prices starting at £36,525 (RRP OTR), excluding Government Plug-In Car Grant of £2,500.
Yet with 400 Nm of torque and combined system power of 218 PS, the new car can achieves 62 mph in 7.6 seconds before heading to a top speed of 140 mph. The potential range between refuelling stops is more than 660 miles.
The Passat GTE is a plug-in hybrid that can be driven up to 31 miles on electric power alone in E-Mode. A 1.4-litre TSI turbocharged petrol engine delivers 156 PS, while the electric motor adds a further 115 PS. Underlining its engaging performance capabilities, the electric motor alone can provide up to 330 Nm of torque from near-standstill.
The new Passat GTE boasts Volkswagen’s new Car-Net e-Remote app which allows a wide variety of tasks – including charging – to be controlled via smartphone. All climate control functions can be also activated remotely, while information on the vehicle’s state of charge, recent driving data or last parking position can be displayed.
The Passat GTE starts in pure electric E-Mode. When it reaches minimum battery charge hybrid mode is activated. Here the Passat GTE operates as a full hybrid, charging the battery under deceleration and automatically using the TSI motor and/or electric motor as required. However, should the driver wish to conserve electric power (for example to use E-Mode in a city at the end of a journey), Battery Charge mode can be selected. For maximum power, GTE mode can be chosen: this uses both petrol and electric motors.
The car’s lithium-ion battery is fitted in the floor area of the rear seat bench. Comprising eight modules of 12 cells each, it creates a nominal voltage of 360 V and power of 9.9 kWh, with a peak output of 85 kW. The high-voltage battery is overseen electronically by the Battery Management Controller, which manages various functions including the battery’s liquid cooling system.
Charging is achieved either via a standard UK domestic mains outlet in around four hours and 15 minutes; or in two hours 30 minutes from a dedicated wallbox with a 3.6 kW supply.
