Auto Expo 2016: Volkswagen Unveils Plug-in Hybrid Passat GTE

Keeping in sync with its global focus on electric vehicles, Volkswagen today showcased the Passat GTE at the ongoing 2016 Auto Expo. The Volkswagen Passat GTE, a plug-in hybrid, utilises the power of TSI engine along with an electric motor. One must note, that even though the plug-in hybrid segment is still developing in India, more and more carmakers in the country have been embracing it off late.

Michael Mayer, Director, Volkswagen Passenger Cars India, said, "We are delighted to showcase our wide range of products at the Delhi Auto Expo 2016, and truly believe in the potential that each of these carlines holds, for the Indian market. Additionally, through the showcase of Passat GTE - we have an opportunity to highlight Volkswagen's environmentally responsible plug-in hybrid technology. With the evolving Indian consumer, we have here a great opportunity to cater to their requirements of safety, build quality and innovation and make Volkswagen as the most accessible German premium brand in India."

Volkswagen Passat GTE Rear

The Volkswagen Passat GTE's 1.4-litre TSI engine together with an electric motor offers a total power output of 215bhp. While the 1.4-litre TSI engine develops 154bhp, the electric motor produces 113bhp. The maximum torque on offer is 400 Nm (combined). For transmission, the Volkswagen Passat comes mated to a 6-speed DSG gearbox.

Volkswagen also claims that the Passat GTE offers an overall driving range of over 966Km; the sedan can drive for up to 50Km in all-electric E-mode. Furthermore, the VW Passat GTE, a front-wheel drive, achieves a top-speed of 219Km/h; 129Km/h in E-Mode. It can also accelerate from standstill to 100Km/h in less than 8.0 seconds.

About the Volkswagen Passat GTE's arrival in India, Jurgen Stackmann Board Member for Sales and Marketing, Volkswagen Passenger Cars said the plug-in hybrid will be launched here in this fiscal. We expect it to be priced at least over Rs. 40 lakh.