Volkswagen, looking to improve the efficiency of its fleets, has released today details about a number of new and upcoming technologies that it has grouped under its BlueMotion environmental tag. These technologies include engine start-stop systems, regenerative braking, electric propulsion, hybrid systems, and dual-fuel powertrains.

Most of the technologies have already been launched in several VW BlueMotion models over the past couple of years, but one new area for the German carmaker is the introduction of hybrid vehicles. Using the Touareg as its entry platform for the technology, VW has mated an electric powertrain with its V6 TSI petrol engine and a new eight-speed automatic transmission to provide the SUV with a 333hp (248kW) output and 26mpg (9L/100km) fuel-economy.

The Touareg’s hybrid system features a 52hp electric motor and eight-speed auto

The Touareg’s hybrid system features a 52hp electric motor and eight-speed auto

The Touareg V6 TSI Hybrid is scheduled to go into production next year and is tipped to be the world’s first hybrid to have a 3.5 metric ton towing capacity. The parallel hybrid system’s electric motor is rated at 52hp (38kW) and will enable the vehicle to travel up to 50km/h on electric power alone. In boosting mode – where maximum torque and power are required, the V6 TSI engine and the electric motor operate together (by kickdown or gearshift selector in "S" position). Under these conditions, a temporary maximum power of 374hp (275kW) is available with a maximum torque of 406lb-ft (550Nm).

Next year will also see the launch of three ultra-clean Passat models. The first of these is a dual-fuel TSI EcoFuel model that is designed to run on either natural gas or petrol or a combination of both, and able to deliver fuel-economy of up to 52mpg (4.5L/100km) from its 148hp (110kW) engine. Second is the BlueTDI, which sports a 141hp (105kW) common-rail turbodiesel engine that delivers a fuel-economy of 45mpg (5.2L/100km). Rounding out the trio is the Passat BlueMotion , which gets several fuel saving technologies such as an engine start-stop system, regenerative brakes, and an ultra-clean catalytic converter. More details on its efficiency are expected to be revealed closer to its launch next year.

VW Passat EcoFuel Concept
Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid V6 TSI concept