Volkswagen Klub Slovenija

In Detail: The New Passat – Generation 8, Technology Preview

Technology Preview – the innovations of the new Passat: Networked assistance systems introduce a new era of safety

Volkswagen introduced the first generation of the Passat 41 years ago. Since that time, the best-seller has sold over 22 million units across the globe. Now Volkswagen is preparing for the launch of the eighth generation Passat. The car will make its debut on the first tranche of world markets over the course of the fourth quarter of 2014. With the new Passat Volkswagen is introducing one of the most progressive mid-class models of our time. The reasons: Innovative assistance, infotainment, convenience and drive systems point the way to a new era in which car driving will become more sustainable, networked and communicative with more active systems and above all greater safety.

World premieres. Numerous technologies of the new Passat are not only firsts for this model series; they are also new to the brand’s entire vehicle range. They include systems such as Active Info display (a completely digital instrument cluster), extendable head-up display, new Rear Seat Entertainment, Front Assist with City Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Monitoring, Emergency Assist (vehicle stops in emergency), Trailer Assist (assisted manoeuvring with a trailer) and Traffic Jam Assist. In addition, Volkswagen will be launching a Passat as its third model with a plug-in hybrid drive system.

Weight reduction

Despite improved rigidity and crash safety new Passat is up to 85 kg lighter than the previous model

The new Passat was created based on the Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB). It exploits synergies across vehicle segments such as progress in weight reduction measures. The results: The new generation Passat weighs up to 85 kg less than the previous model.

Facts on weight reduction in the new Passat:

1. Total weight: -85 kg. The new Passat was made up to 85 kg lighter, depending on the engine-gearbox combination.

2. Running gear: -9 kg. The weight of the running gear was reduced by such measures as the use of lightweight metals. The rear axle, for example, weighs 4.7 kg less and the steering system 2.2 kg less. Overall, the running gear was made up to 9 kg lighter.

3. Engines: -40 kg. The turbocharged four-cylinder engines used in the Passat weight significantly less. Total weight savings here are up to 40 kg.

4. Electrical: -3 kg. Aluminium makes the electrical components, electronics and thereby the overall electrical system lighter in weight. Wire gauges were also optimised. Overall, up to 3 kg was saved, even in the base version.

5. Body … . Progressive steel construction with ultra-high strength and hot-formed steels make the car body lighter. For the first time in a Passat, aluminium was also used in the body structure.

6. … and equipment: -33 kg. Advanced materials and a new air conditioner lead to weight savings in the equipment area as well. In total, the entire superstructure was made up to 33 kg lighter.

7. Improved properties: Despite weight reductions, improvements were made in body rigidity (gain of 2,000 Nm/° to 25,000 Nm/° in the Estate) and 30,000 Nm/° in the Saloon). The maximum trailer load was increased by up to 400 kg.

8. Reducing driving resistances: Around half of a vehicle’s fuel consumption is used to overcome sources of driving resistance – weight, air drag, rolling resistance. That makes the progress made in lowering the weight of the Passat by up to 85 kg all the more significant.

Active Info Display

Displayed information changes according to function:
First Volkswagen with interactive instrument display

In the new Passat, Volkswagen is launching an instrument cluster that is built as a display with interactive representation of information: the Active Info Display.

Facts on the newly developed Active Info Display:

1. Virtual instruments. All instruments were implemented virtually by software. Only safety-related indicator lights are executed in hardware.

2. 12.3-inch display. The information can be displayed in 2D and 3D; 12.3 inches is equivalent to a screen diagonal of 312 mm.

3. 1,440 x 540 pixels. The display resolution of 1,440 x 540 pixels enables extremely precise and high-end graphic display of all details.

4. Interactive. The display is interactive. Consider Navigation mode: Here, the speedometer and tachometer are relocated to the sides to make more room for the map.

5. Variable. Depending on needs, information such as driving, navigation and assistance functions may be integrated into the graphic surfaces of the speedometer and tachometer.

6. Infotainment. Data that previously could only be displayed on the centre console via the infotainment system, such as images of phone contacts or CD covers, can now be incorporated into the Active Info Display of the Passat.

7. Customisable. The Active Info Display can be customised according to the car model and equipment. In the new Passat with a plug-in hybrid drive, for example, the tachometer is programmed to become a Powermeter.

8. Digital and analogue. Volkswagen will offer the Active Info Display as an alternative to analogue instruments as either a standard or optional feature.

Head-up display

View remains on the road:
Information appears in virtual space around two metres in front of the Passat

The new Passat is the first Volkswagen to also be equipped with a head-up display. It projects key information such as vehicle speed or navigation pictograms directly into the primary visual field of the driver.

Facts on the first head-up display by Volkswagen:

1. Improves safety. Projection of the head-up display lets drivers keep their eyes on the road while looking at data such as speed.

2. Faster reaction. Projecting warning messages into the immediate visual field of the river can significantly reduce reaction time.

3. Eyes do not fatigue as quickly. Because the eyes do not have to shift back and forth between the road and the instruments, the driver’s eyes do not fatigue as quickly during longer trips.

4. Extendable glass panel. The head-up display of the Passat is a “combined solution”: the data is projected onto an extendable glass panel in front of the windscreen. When it is not being used, the display panel is protected by lowering it into the dashboard, and the opening has a flush closure.

5. Excellent optics. The glass screen is designed as a high-resolution colour display with a colour depth of 18 bits. This produces a brilliant image with rich contrasts. Another advantage of the display that is extendable and not integrated in the windscreen: if the windscreen needs to be replaced (e.g. due to a stone impact), there is no need to replace it with a special and therefore expensive windscreen; it is also not necessary to perform a complicated recalibration of the system.

6. Information in virtual space in front of the Passat. From the driver’s perspective, the projected data appears to be located two metres in front of the Passat.

7. Sunlight does not affect the display. The brightness of the display is automatically adapted to the ambient light. The maximum display luminance is 12,000 cd/m2 which makes it easy to read the information even in conditions of direct sunlight.

8. Range of information is selectable. The head-up display is activated via a separate control next to the rotary light switch. From the infotainment system menu, the driver can decide which information should be displayed: momentary speed, legal speed limit, navigation instructions, information on assistance systems and warnings.

Modular Infotainment System (MIB)

Generation II of MIB systems:
Ideally networked world with Car-Net, MirrorLink™ and SMS by TTS*

The new Passat is launching with Generation II of Volkswagen infotainment systems. The latest generation of this modular information toolkit (MIB) enables a maximum degree of connectivity in terms of coupling external devices. Its diverse interfaces include interfacing to smart phones and their apps via MirrorLink™. In addition, the systems were given much faster processors (optimised booting, quicker route calculation, smoother touchscreen performance, perfected language dialogues) and new higher-resolution displays (in the 6.5-inch systems).

Facts on the second generation of MIB infotainment:

1. Five systems. The Passat makes its debut with the 5-inch systems “Composition Touch” and “Composition Colour”, the 6.5-inch systems “Composition Media” and “Discover Media” (plus Navigation) with a four-fold improvement in resolution (6.5-inch display compared to the first generation 5.8-inch display) and the latest version of the 8.0-inch “Discover Pro” radio-navigation system.

2. Faster processors. The new generation of devices is characterised by better system performance. Consider the “Discover Media”, the radio-navigation system with 6.5-inch display: Compared to the first generation, performance of the CPU (main processor) was more than doubled from 950 MIPS (million instructions per second) to 2,500 MIPS.

3. Connectivity. Even in the “Composition Touch” (base device), music can be fed in via the AUX-IN socket, by SD card and/or optionally from a USB stick or Bluetooth. In addition, an iPod/iPhone interface is available. Starting with the “Composition Colour”, a CD player is also integrated, and from the “Composition Media” a Bluetooth interface and USB interface are included as standard. The “Discover Media” (entry-level navigation system) can be optionally equipped with WLAN. The top “Discover Pro” navigation system also comes with the Premium mobile phone interface (rSAP profile) and DVD drive; TV tuner is optional.

4. MirrorLink™. For the first time in the Passat, MirrorLink™ is available – from the “Composition Media” it is optional, in the “Discover Pro” it is standard. MirrorLink™ makes it possible to integrate numerous apps or functions of Android smart phones into the infotainment system. Related apps will be offered directly from Volkswagen and from third party suppliers. The Volkswagen apps: “Mobile Office”, “audioMOTION”, “ThinkBlue. Trainer”, “Shared Audio”, “Drive&Track” and “My Guide”. Third party apps include “Audioteka” (audio books), “Glympse” (social media), “Aupeo!” (Internet radio), “Life360″ (family locator) and “Kaliki” (news).

5. Telephone. From the “Composition Media”, two mobile phones can be called at the same time from now on – e.g. a business phone and a private phone. Perfected: speech quality (Wide Band Speech HFP 1.6). Also new: SMS messaging. Received SMS messages can be read aloud via TTS (* = Text-to-Speech). Predefined templates such as “Call back” make answering safer while driving. From the “Composition Colour” system, the optional “Comfort” mobile phone preparation offers a compartment for inductive coupling of the smart phone to the outside antenna of the Passat.

6. Navigation. For the first time in the Passat, the “rubberband” function is being used in the new “Discover Pro”. Just like on a tablet, the displayed route can be scrolled and varied by touching a point on the route by hand. Also integrated as a standard feature of “Discover Media” and “Discover Pro” is the ability to use speech commands to input the navigation destination (“one-shot destination entry”).

7. Car-Net basic functions. For the Passat, Car-Net is offered in combination with the “Discover Media” and “Discover Pro” radio-navigation systems. It is made up of mobile online services. For example, Car-Net makes it possible to integrate “Traffic Information Online” into dynamic route guidance and to incorporate online public and personalised Points of Interest (POI) into navigation. Using “Google Street View”, it will also be possible to integrate 360-degree panoramic images from the street perspective on the display screen and use the Google Earth™ map service to call up a realistic photographic image of the map representation (Google Maps).

8. Car-Net extensions. Other new features of “Discover Media” and “Discover Pro” are the functions “Parking place information” (number of available parking spaces in parking structures including location), “Petrol station prices” (current fuel prices including location), “Weather”, “News” and “Vehicle status report” (e.g. maintenance related information). Also new: “POI and destination feed”; from the “Discover Media” this lets you select destinations and POIs from a PC, tablet or smart phone and transfer it to the navigation system later.

Rear Seat Entertainment

Entertainment system on a tablet:
Watch movies via tablet, listen to songs or control navigation

Integration of a wide variety of devices in the new Passat includes tablets. New opportunities are created by networking external devices to the car’s infotainment system via WLAN. Integration of a new type of Rear Seat Entertainment system, for example. The key here is an app that makes the infotainment system and tablet compatible.

Facts on the new Rear Seat Entertainment & app:

1. App for tablets. Volkswagen is offering a new app for tablets to access functions of the “Discover Media” or “Discover Pro” via WLAN.

2. Mirrored. The “Volkswagen Media Control” app lets users display sections of the infotainment system user interface on a tablet; this makes it easy to control individual functions via the app.

3. Radio, media and navigation. The controllable functional features include the radio, all media sources (e.g. USB, CD or DVD, hard drive, online song search) and navigation. The media menu displays such content as the artist, album name and cover.

4. Radio in detail. In the radio, the user can change the station selection from station icons and lists, the station seek sequence and the display of RDS information as well as frequencies.

5. Navigation specifics. In the Navigation menu, along with standard functions it is also possible to conduct an Internet address search and then send it as a destination input.

6. Sound. Volume control can be adjusted in every context. In addition, it is possible to adjust the balance and fader settings.

7. Control. Via the app, users can also control the selection of available audio sources, the display of folders and play lists as well as basic operating functions such as Start, Stop, Pause, Forward and Back.

8. Mounting bracket. To optimise operating convenience or view movies conveniently, Volkswagen will be offering a tablet mounting bracket as an accessory for the Passat, which can also be used to supply power to the device.

Assistance and convenience systems: Area View

Further developed 360 degree all-round view: Area View with new obstacle detection function

The camera-based surroundings visualisation system Area View celebrated its world premiere in the Touareg in 2010. The system was developed to enable a 360-degree overview of the close surroundings and traffic situation. The system was significantly developed further for the new Passat.

Facts on Area View:

1. Debut in the Passat. Volkswagen is introducing the new generation of Area View in the Passat. The new system offers extended functionality, better camera resolution, obstacle detection and new 3D bird’s eye view perspectives.

2. Four cameras. Area View utilises four cameras located in the boot lid (1), door mirrors (2) and radiator grille (1). With an aperture angle of over 180 degrees per camera, Area View acquires the entire environment around the car and projects it onto the infotainment system screen. From the Display menu, the driver can select the camera views (front, rear, side or bird’s eye view), with either a full or split screen.

3. 3D bird’s eye view … In conjunction with the Discover Pro radio-navigation system, the control unit takes the four camera images and generates an overall view of the Passat and its surroundings to create a 3D bird’s eye view.

4. … hemispheric display. In contrast to the normal bird’s eye perspective, this view projects the view of the surroundings onto a hemisphere.

5. Virtual all-round view. The system permits a total of 17 different virtual camera positions. They are arranged so that all conceivable perspectives can be displayed around the vehicle.

6. Obstacle detection. New in Area View is obstacle detection that is based on image processing algorithms. As a supplement to the normal ultrasonic parking sensors and Rear Traffic Alert, the system uses the cameras to detect obstacles that are located beyond the ranges acquired by the sensors.

7. Assistance in parking. The warning strategy is similar to that of the ultrasonic parking sensors. Along with displaying the obstacles and the available spaces, Area View visualises the vehicle based on the steering wheel input when parking in a selected space.

8. Offroad function. Assistance in slow driving on unpaved roads and off-road is provided by the “Offroad” display of the front camera. It clearly depicts obstacles on the driving path – for example, large rocks, tree stumps and holes.

Park Assist

Quick parking, even in complicated parking spaces:
Third generation of Park Assist makes difficult manoeuvres easy

Park Assist makes it possible to park in any parking space that is parallel or perpendicular to the carriageway semi-automatically; in addition, the system can exit from parallel parking spaces. In the case of perpendicular parking spaces, not only is parking in reverse supported; it is also possible to park in a forward direction semi-automatically.

Facts on the third generation of Park Assist:

1. Park Assist 1. The first generation of Park Assist made its debut in 2007; this assistant aided automatic steering in reverse into parking spaces parallel to the carriageway – a technological highlight.

2. Park Assist 2. The second generation of Park Assist, presented in 2010, added automatic steering for reverse parking into spaces perpendicular to the carriageway; parallel parking spaces could also be smaller now (80 cm plus the car length sufficed). In addition, automatic exiting from parallel parking spaces was now also possible.

3. Park Assist 3. The newly developed third generation of Park Assist adds the new feature of semi-automatic forward parking into spaces perpendicular to the road.

4. Assistance. The wide variety of functions of Park Assist 3 optimally supports the driver in difficult traffic situations, because it makes parking faster and for less experienced drivers simpler.

5. Automatic steering. After pressing the Park Assist button, the driver only needs to activate the accelerator pedal and brake (together with the clutch for a manual gearbox) as Park Assist automatically steers the Passat into the parking space.

6. Automatic parking space detection. The system independently detects the type of parking space and initiates the necessary manoeuvre; at the same time, the driver is informed of the operation and given instructions via the multifunction display.

7. Manual parking space selection. The driver can make a manual selection of the desired parking space from the parking spaces that were automatically detected.

8. Vehicle position. The basic functions of Park Assist were further improved by the use of what is known as a surroundings map. The system has sensors in all four wheels that detect turning direction; this enables precise locating of the Passat so that it can be parked more precisely than ever.

Trailer Assist

Automatic parking with a trailer:
Passat is world’s first passenger car with Trailer Assist

Reverse driving with a trailer is a challenge even for experienced drivers. Therefore, Volkswagen decided to be the world’s first carmaker to offer an assistance system that makes manoeuvring with a trailer easier than ever before: Trailer Assist.

Facts on the new Trailer Assist:

1. World premiere: Trailer Assist automatically controls lateral guidance of the car and trailer combination. Volkswagen is the first carmaker to offer an innovative system of this kind.

2. Reverse gear. To manoeuvre a trailer in reverse from the carriageway into a driveway, the driver stops at a suitable point and engages reverse gear. The system is activated by pushing a button.

3. Camera-based. The current and possible steering angles are visualised in the instrument cluster. This is done based on image processing algorithms that evaluate the data from the rear view camera that observes the angle of the trailer in relation to the vehicle.

4. Self-learning. The trailer angle that is optically acquired is used to calculate the steering wheel angle independent of any special types of trailers or towbars.

5. Mirror adjustment as part of the system. The driver can set the desired driving direction of the vehicle-trailer combination fully variably using the mirror adjustment, which in this case functions as a joystick.

6. Automatic steering. The Passat takes the driver’s steering commands via mirror adjustment switch and steers the vehicle; all the driver needs to operate are the brake and accelerator pedals. The Passat is turned by automatic control of the electro-mechanical servo steering system. It is always possible to make a correction by mirror adjustment.

7. Driver is in charge. Trailer Assist can be deactivated by pressing the activation button again or by making a manual steering intervention. In this case, the vehicle-trailer is braked to a standstill.

8. Safety first. Trailer Assist automatically brakes if the driver exceeds a defined vehicle speed.

Side Assist with Rear Traffic Alert

The end of the blind spot:
More convenience in overtaking and reversing out of parking spaces

Volkswagen has extended the functional range of its Side Assist driver assistance system by adding the new Rear Traffic Alert. The system can contribute to avoiding serious accidents – in two situations in particular. First, on the motorway, because it detects both fast overtaking vehicles and slow ones in the blind spot, warns the driver and thereby makes overtaking safer. Second, when reversing out of a parking space, because the sensors detect vehicles approaching from the side that are not visible to the driver.

Facts on Side Assist with Rear Traffic Alert:

1. Side Assist. Side Assist with Rear Traffic Alert operates with a new generation of radar sensors.

2. Automatically active. Side Assist, which automatically activates starting at a speed of 10 km/h, uses two radar sensors (integrated in the rear bumper) to “monitor” the surroundings at a range of up to 70 metres behind the Passat.

3. Calling attention. Side Assist alerts the driver to vehicles located alongside the Passat or approaching from the rear by lighting an LED in the door mirror housing.

4. Warning. When the driver activates the turn indicator in the direction of a detected vehicle, the Side Assist indicator flashes as the next warning stage, which draws the driver’s attention to the mirror.

5. Countersteering. If, in addition to Side Assist, the camera-based Lane Assist system is also installed, and a steering input is made in the direction of a hazard, the warning stage is activated (even if no turn indicator was set), and if the driver begins to change lanes, the vehicle actively countersteers. Of course, the driver retains control over the assistance system in this case too; the driver can override the system by an active steering intervention.

6. Rear Traffic Alert. Rear Traffic Alert revolutionises reversing out of parking spaces that are perpendicular to the carriageway. The system detects vehicles that are approaching from the side.

7. Radar-based. The radar-based sensor module of Rear Traffic Alert detects objects up to 50 metres away. Rear Traffic Alert is activated by engaging reverse gear or by the optional Park Distance Control (PDC) when starting off.

8. Automatic brake intervention. If a collision is imminent, Rear Traffic Alert first outputs a visual warning, then an acoustic one. If the driver does not react appropriately to the situation and there is an immediate risk of a collision, Rear Traffic Alert automatically initiates a braking intervention that can reduce the severity of the accident.

Traffic Jam Assist and Emergency Assist

New Traffic Jam Assist makes stop-and-go drives more comfortable;
new Emergency Assist intervenes if the driver is incapable of driving

Volkswagen is introducing Traffic Jam Assist and Emergency Assist in the Passat as a world premiere. Volkswagen developed Traffic Jam Assist based on Lane Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). The system makes traffic jams or stop-and-go driving much more comfortable. In addition, Volkswagen conceptualised the new Emergency Assist which becomes active if the driver stops driving altogether.

Facts on Traffic Jam Assist and Emergency Assist:

1. Traffic Jam Assist. The basis for this system is Lane Assist whose functionality of adaptive lane guidance is also available at speeds below 60 km/h. Here, the system not only countersteers to make corrections when the car leaves the lane; but in addition the active adaptive lane guidance of Lane Assist keeps the Passat in the middle of the driving lane.

2. ACC is integrated. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) is another assistance system which is incorporated in Traffic Jam Assist. That is because, with ACC, braking and accelerating is automatic even in the stop-and-go speed range.

3. ACC and Lane Assist form an alliance. ACC and Lane Assist merge into Traffic Jam Assist: the system enables assisted lateral and longitudinal guidance. The car steers, accelerates and brakes automatically, but only under the condition that the driver’s hands are on the steering wheel and participating in steering, so that the driver can intervene at any time.

4. Acoustic and visual feedback. If the driver shows no steering activity or just a little, Traffic Jam Assist notices this via Lane Assist. In this case, the system gives an acoustic warning along with a message in the multifunction display requesting that the driver take over control of the car.

5. Extended request to take control. If the driver does not react to this request, an extended request to take control of the new Passat is made with a brief but very noticeable brake jolt. This reminds the inattentive or tired driver to use the steering wheel actively.

6. Emergency Assist. If the driver suddenly becomes incapable of driving – on the motorway for instance – and does not show any steering activity after the extended request to take control, Emergency Assist steps into action.

7. Advanced development of Lane Assist. Emergency Assist represents an advanced development of Lane Assist, and if necessary it takes over control of the vehicle until it comes to a stop.

8. Bringing the car to a stop. Due to the lack of steering activity and other parameters, the system concludes that the driver is inactive. In this case, the car is kept in its own lane. At the same time, the hazard flasher light is activated, and slow braking is initiated. The deceleration remains constant until the Passat is stationary. To prevent an unintentional frontal collision with traffic ahead if at all possible, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) is also activated (if fitted).

Front Assist with City Emergency Braking

Milestone in detecting pedestrians:
Automatic braking system of the Passat uses radar and front camera

Front Assist is a system for warning and automatically braking in case of an imminent collision. One of the system components of Front Assist is City Emergency Braking. While it is Front Assist that warns drivers against getting too close to the vehicle in front and of any potential collision at higher speeds, City Emergency Braking performs this role in slower urban traffic. Up until now, the City Emergency Braking system exclusively detected vehicles. In the new Passat the enhanced system now reacts for the first time to pedestrians.

Facts about Front Assist with City Emergency Braking:

1. Front Assist. Front Assist uses a radar sensor integrated in the front of the car to monitor continuously the distance to the traffic ahead.

2. Warning the driver. Front Assist assists the driver in critical situations by preconditioning the brake system and alerting the driver to any required reactions through visual and audible warnings, and in a second stage by a brief warning jolt.

3. Automatic braking. If the driver fails to brake hard enough, Front Assist generates sufficient braking force to avoid a collision. If the driver fails to react at all, Front Assist automatically slows the vehicle down. One component of the Front Assist system is the City Emergency Braking function.

4. City Emergency Braking. City Emergency Braking is an extension of the Front Assist system. Using a radar sensor, it monitors – up to a speed of 65 km/h – the area in front of the Passat.

5. Radar plus camera. Now for the first time the enhanced City Emergency Braking function combines the radar with the front camera of the Passat so that it can detect, in addition to vehicles, any pedestrians at the edge of the road or on the carriageway.

6. Warning the driver. If City Emergency Braking detects a risk of the Passat potentially colliding with a pedestrian, it initially alerts the driver with a visual and audible warning and then with a jolt of the brake.

7. Automatic emergency braking. If the driver fails to react to these warnings, the system automatically triggers emergency braking.

8. Relevant for Euro-NCAP starting in 2016. From 2016, City Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Monitoring will be taken into consideration in Euro NCAP’s star rating system.

Progressive steering

Passat has progressive steering for the first time:
Steering system optimises handling and comfort

Thanks to its progressive steering, drivers of the Passat will not need to turn the steering wheel as much to turn through any desired radius. When going around tight bends they will also not need to move their hands so often around the wheel.

Facts about the progressive steering of the Passat:

1. Dynamic handling package. The progressive steering system in the new Passat is being offered in combination with a sports chassis or DCC adaptive chassis control.

2. Radius reduced. With progressive steering, it takes 2.1 turns of the wheel to reach the end stop, while without this option it takes 2.75 turns.

3. Progressive gear ratio. Conventional steering systems operate with a constant gear ratio. The new steering system, meanwhile, operates with a progressive steering gear ratio.

4. Variable tooth spacing. Technically, progressive steering differs from the basic steering system primarily by the rack’s variable tooth spacing and a more powerful electric motor.

5. No compromises. Unlike with constant steering ratios, which by necessity always represent a compromise between dynamic performance and comfort, here the steering rack’s toothing is significantly modified by the steering stroke.#

6. Maximum steering precision. Even at high speeds, the system enables a more precise and relaxed style of driving in the mid-range of steering angles.

7. Enhanced dynamics. On winding country roads and when turning at junctions, drivers will notice enhanced dynamic performance thanks to the more direct layout.

8. Enhanced comfort. At low speeds, for example in the city or when parking, the Passat is appreciably easier to handle thanks to the reduced need to turn the wheel.

Easy Close

Automatic closing function of the Passat Estate:
Easy Close closes the boot lid as soon as you move away

Easy Open – the counterpart to Easy Close – was introduced in 2010 with the seventh generation Passat Estate: if the car is equipped with Keyless Access (an automatic locking and starting system), a purposeful movement of the foot at the back of the vehicle is all that is needed to open the boot. The interface between man and machine is formed by a proximity sensor near the bumper, which detects the virtual kick movement. On the 8th generation Passat Estate this automatic boot lid opening function is now being supplemented by the Easy Close closing function.

Facts about Easy Close:

1. Newly developed. Easy Close is an extension of the Easy Open function. The estate’s boot lid closes as soon as the person with the Passat key moves away from the back of the car. The vehicle is also automatically locked.

2. Button in the boot lid. The closing function is activated by a double button in the boot lid.

3. Immediate or delayed. Via the button, the Passat user is able to choose between the customary immediate closing of the boot lid or the new delayed closing option.

4. Key as interface. When delayed closing is in use, antennae mounted in the rear car body search for the Passat key. The person with the key receives a status response that the function was activated via an LED integrated into the Easy Close button.

5. Step 1 of the locking process. If the key is found, the system locks the vehicle’s doors. However, the boot lid remains open so that you can use both hands to comfortably unload things like drink crates.

6. Step 2 of the locking process. If the person with the Passat key moves away from the vicinity of the boot lid, the antennae recognise this. The hatch is then automatically closed and locked.

7. Interrupting the closing process. If you return with the key during the closing process, the process is aborted and the boot lid opened again.

8. Malfunction impossible. If after activating Easy Close you remain near to the boot lid for longer than 20 seconds, the function is aborted. In this case the boot lid does not get closed and the fact that the process was aborted is displayed on the LED integrated within the button.

LED headlights and rear lights

Light that is bright as day with LED technology:
All-LED headlights replace xenon headlights in the Passat

Volkswagen has developed a totally new design of vehicle lights for the eighth generation Passat. The car is being offered with either halogen or LED headlights and across the board with LED rear lights. Available in three variants, the LED headlights in particular create an unmistakable look.

Facts about the LED headlights and rear lights:

1. LED headlights (level 1). The newly developed all-LED headlights in reflector technology form the entry-level version of a lighting system that replaces the xenon headlights on the Passat.

2. Unmistakable LED light signature. Also designed in LED technology is the daytime running light. The main panel of the daytime running light also takes on the indicator function. Twelve LEDs are used for this, which can be operated in white or yellow. The daytime running light’s unique signature is unmistakable.

3. LED headlights with dynamic cornering light and unique daytime running light signature (level 2). The next level lighting option being offered by Volkswagen for the Passat is full LED headlights in projection technology. Arranged next to each other, two exceptionally low-profile lens modules project the light on the road and provide illumination similar to that of daylight. Their lighting performance is superior to that of bi-xenon headlights.

4. Multi-beam lens module. The centrepiece of these headlights is the outer multi-beam lens module. In addition to the dimmed and full beams (with adapted country road and motorway light), the module also generates the dynamic cornering light. The inner flat-beam lens module, meanwhile, is responsible for illuminating the road up ahead.

5. LED headlights plus Dynamic Light Assist (level 3). In the top version, these all-LED projection headlights are additionally controlled via vehicle camera. Volkswagen is for the first time combining Dynamic Light Assist (automatic permanent full beam) with LED technology. The camera recognises any traffic in front and any vehicles in opposing traffic; this data is evaluated by the headlight electronics which coordinate the light distribution via the cornering light controller and pivoting multi-beam lens module.

6. Daytime running light consists of 32 LEDs (level 3). Another highlight of the projection LED headlights is the daytime running light with 32 LEDs. Its signature is made up of two separate modules: a large ‘U’ (that goes around the lens module) and a small ‘U’, which frames the contour of the multi-beam lens module. Beneath the daytime running light the wide indicators (twelve LEDs) emphasise the headlight’s design. LEDs for the static cornering light are also positioned on the inner side of the headlight.

7. Rear lights (level 1). The new Passat is being launched with all-LED rear lights as standard. In addition to the standard version there will also be a further customised top version. Both versions extend in two sections from the boot/hatch into the side panel. In the standard rear light unit, the tail light and brake light functions are located in the upper outer section, and the indicators are beneath. Integrated within the inner (boot lid) section, along with the tail light, are the rear fog lights and reversing lights.

8. Rear lights (level 2). The top version’s light design is extremely striking. The functionality of these LED rear lights can be seen during braking: the horizontal light signature then switches to the vertically oriented brake light signature which is produced by three vertical lines, two in the outer section and one in the inner section. The visual effect is like a folding of the horizongal rear light signature into a vertical brake light signature (“click-clack”). The visual signal change makes the brake lights more perceptible, and this increases traffic safety. In addition to the tail and brake light the indicator light is also integrated within the outer rear light modules. Housed in the inner (boot lid) modules are the tail and brake light function, the reversing light and the rear fog light.

Drive Systems: TDI as bi-turbo / pendulum absorber

Most powerful Passat diesel ever: New 2.0 TDI develops 240 PS and up to 500 Nm of torque

The new Passat will be launched with a range of engine power from 88 kW / 120 PS to 206 kW / 280 PS. A highlight here is the most powerful four-cylinder diesel injection engine ever offered by Volkswagen: a newly developed 2.0 litre bi-turbo engine delivering 176 kW / 240 PS. Its extraordinarily high maximum torque of 500 Nm is available from as low as 1,750 rpm. Despite its supreme output potential, the 2.0 TDI consumes, for example in the Passat saloon, just over 5 l/100 km.

Facts about the new 2.0 TDI as a bi-turbo:

1. 7-speed DSG. The 240-PS TDI is being offered with a 7-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG) as standard.

2. 4MOTION all-wheel drive. Due to the high level of torque, Volkswagen will be launching the TDI top version with 4MOTION all-wheel drive as standard.

3. Up to 3.8 bar of turbo boost. The starting point for the new engines is the EA288 series engines that are based on the modular diesel component system (MDB). In order to achieve the high specific output of 120 PS per litre of cubic capacity, a compact bi-turbo module with a high-pressure and low-pressure turbine was developed for the engine. The module enables turbo boost levels of up to 3.8 bar.

4. Reinforced. The cylinder crankcase, crankshaft, connecting rods and pistons were adapted to the high maximum combustion pressure of 200 bar. In addition a high-performance cylinder head is also being used for the first time.

5. New injectors. Another new feature is the newly developed injection system with piezo injectors. This fuel injection system enables injection pressures of up to 2,500 bar.

6. Clean. Positioning the oxidation catalytic converter, diesel particulate filter and SCR system (selective catalytic reduction using reducing agent AdBlue) close to the engine makes the emission control components react especially quickly. The new 2.0 TDI complies with the Euro 6 exhaust gas standard.

7. Centrifugal pendulum absorber. In order to optimise comfort at low engine speeds, a newly developed centrifugal pendulum absorber is being used in the gearbox of the 2.0 TDI.

8. Low revs. This enables the gear shift points to be lowered still further, lowering the rev levels, which contributes to the excellent fuel consumption figures of the TDI.

Plug-in hybrid drive system

Zero-emission Passat:
Up to 50 km all-electric range and over 1,000 km total range

The new Passat is the third plug-in hybrid from Volkswagen – after the XL1 and Golf GTE. Its hybrid drive system consists of a 115 kW / 156 PS petrol direct-injection engine with turbocharging (1.4 TSI) and an electric motor with an output of 80 kW / 109 PS. The two drive sources fuse to provide a drive system output of 155 kW / 211 PS. The electric motor is supplied via an externally chargeable high-voltage lithium-ion battery. This drive concept makes the Passat Hybrid and Passat Estate Hybrid zero-emission vehicles during some driving periods: the two long distance models can drive up to 50 kilometres in all-electric mode.

Facts about the Passat with plug-in hybrid:

1. Two in one. The new Passat is a zero-emission and long-distance vehicle in one.

2. Sustainable mobility. Similar to the top values attained by the Golf GTE (1.5 l/100 km in the NEDC and 35 g CO2/km), the Passat as a plug-in hybrid can be expected to have a very low combined fuel consumption figure that goes along with low CO2 emissions. Official fuel consumption figures will be announced with homologation (2015).

3. Zero emissions. As mentioned, the Passat Hybrid can be driven up to 50 kilometres in all-electric mode, while its total range is 1,000 kilometres.

4. Two drive sources. The 1.4 TSI Passat Hybrid develops 115 kW / 156 PS and the electric motor up to 80 kW / 109 PS.

5. Powerful. System output reaches 155 kW / 211 PS; maximum torque is 400 Nm.

6. Plug-in. The electric motor is supplied with energy via a lithium ion high-voltage battery; the capacity of this battery, which is equipped with a liquid cooling system, is 9.9 kWh. The battery is charged via a charging socket next to the VW logo on the radiator grille.

7. Supreme. The Passat Hybrid has a top speed of over 210 km/h and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 8 seconds.

8. High-tech features. Standard features of the Passat models with plug-in hybrid drive system include all-LED headlights and the Composition Media infotainment system.

Note:
TDI, TSI and DSG are registered trademarks of Volkswagen AG or other companies of the Volkswagen Group in Germany and other countries.
All fuel economy and driving performance data in this press kit are estimated values as of June 2014. All features refer to the model range offered in Germany; they may differ in other countries.

vir: http://www.vwvortex.com/news/volkswagen-news/detail-new-passat-generation-8-2/