CAR GARAGE | Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid (2013) | Like the Touareg Hybrid, the Jetta is a parallel hybrid, using a decoupling can Disengage the clutch That petrol motors for pure electric drive (or when coasting or braking), Disengage the electric motor (for higher speeds or when the battery charge is low) , or combine the two units for maximum power. Using electric power alone, the Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid can be driven at speeds of up to 70 kmh (44 mph) and over a distance of two kilometers (1.3 miles), depending on conditions. For maximum performance, both the TSI engine and the electric motor combine, giving a peak power of 170 PS.
The new Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid has made its world debut at the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Bringing electric drive to a new class of Volkswagen. Propulsion comes from a high-tech 1.4-liter TSI 150 PS petrol engine and a 20 kW electric zero-emissions motor. A lithium-ion battery supplies the energy for the electric motor. It is Despite the extra weight of the battery, electric motor and extra safety modifications to the vehicle's structure, the Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid weighs only 100 kg more than the non-hybrid Jetta at less than 1.500 kg in total. Provided the battery contains sufficient charge, the Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid electric drive is switched to mode either automatically (at speeds of up to 60 kmh or 37 mph) or at the press of a button next to the gear lever (up to 70 kmh or 44 mph).
Under braking, the Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid switches to a battery regeneration mode, the which decouples the TSI engine and uses the electric motor as a generator. The generating power of the motors Rises with Increased brake pedal travel. At higher speeds, or when the battery charge is depleted, the TSI motors provides extra power to recharge the battery, however even in these Situations the charging is interspersed with electric driving phases to maximize fuel efficiency. Externally, the Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid can be Identified by aerodynamic modifications Including a new front spoiler, a rear diffuser and a rear spoiler That help to improve the car's Cd value by 10 per cent. If the driver Selects the 'Hybrid' menu in the multifunction display, the current drive mode is shown, while a meter indicates energy flow via arrows.
The audio system, meanwhile, has a 'zero emissions' menu. Standard equipment on the US-spec SE models includes a climate control system 2Zone That Works without the TSI engine running, a 'Premium 8' sound system, Bluetooth phone integration, MDI interface for iPod connectivity and a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel. Moving up to SEL1 specification adds 16-inch alloy wheels, a glass sunroof, RNS 315 satellite navigation, electric driver's seat adjustment, heated front seats and key less entry.
