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Global Viewpoints
VW Concept D
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Volkswagen's large luxury Concept D study has a V10 direct-injection turbodiesel engine.
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Concept D is a very long way from the original concept of a "people's car," but it is the pointer towards VW's plans for a future luxury model. The V10-engined direct-injection diesel Concept D was unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show and is described as a "four-door coupe," which seems to be a conflict in terms. It represents a "first taste" of a luxury sedan that will be built in Dresden from the beginning of the next millennium, according to the company. The choice of a diesel engine is significant and indicates how this type of engine is gaining acceptance at the upper end of the market in Europe. The power unit will have a volume of about 5.0 L and incorporate twin turbochargers, charge air cooling, and electrical charge pressure control. Power output is quoted at 230 kW (308 hp), with 750 N•m (553 lb•ft) of torque at only 2000 rpm. It will incorporate a balance shaft. The Concept D has all-wheel-drive and an automatic plus Tiptronic (manual selection) gearbox. Other engines could include a gasoline W12. The car is 4995 mm (197 in) long. Lighting systems include double Xenon headlights and fluorescent-tube indicators behind tapered clear glass covers. Flush positioned exterior door handles deploy when heat sensors detect a hand approaching within a few centimeters. Turn indicators are in the door mirrors. A reversing camera is incorporated into the VW symbol on the trunk lid. The car has a luxury interior using walnut and leather, materials which Bentley, also in the VW Group, has great experience applying to an upmarket sporting car's interior.
Stuart Birch
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