Volkswagen: Wolfsburg relies on Twindosing
NEW TECHNOLOGY The diesel currently does not have the best reputation, even in Switzerland. But Markus Köhne, chief diesel developer at Volkswagen, sees the supposed end of this drive as massively exaggerated. In parallel with the focus on electric drives, developers in Wolfsburg have developed a new compression ignition engine that is gradually being introduced into the Group's transverse platform. [...]
In parallel with the focus on electric drives, the developers in Wolfsburg have developed a new compression-ignition engine that is gradually being introduced in the Group's transverse platform. The new two-liter drive with 150 hp has already been used in the Passat since last year's model update and now also powers the Golf 8.
Popularity of this drive technology
Markus Köhne: "The diesel is part of Volkswagen's DNA. We still see the popularity of this drive technology among our customers, and after all, 70 percent of all Passats sold are equipped with this engine. In the future, the engine will gradually be used in other models as well."
Additional catalysts
The new engine uses a new technology that incorporates additional catalytic converters in the vehicle underbody to significantly reduce exhaust emissions and fuel consumption.
According to the plant, the engine in the Golf 8 achieves 17 percent lower fuel consumption (3.7 liters) and CO2 emissions of 97 grams per kilometer compared with the predecessor model using the NEDC measurement method. The more realistic WLTP measurement method comes to 119 grams.
SCR catalytic converter and a barrier catalytic converter
To simultaneously reduce emissions of harmful nitrogen oxides, Markus Köhne's team developed what is known as twindosing, which combines a trio of catalytic converters and a particulate filter.
In addition to an oxidation catalyst placed on the engine, which reduces unburned hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide, and a particulate filter mounted near the engine for rapid heating, exhaust gas treatment is handled by an SCR catalytic converter and a barrier catalytic converter with Adblue metering module.
Technology for the long haul
Development of the new technology began three years ago and will gradually be used in Volkswagen models.
For the diesel developers, the compression-ignition engine will continue to be at home primarily on long-distance routes.
Markus Köhne: "In the city, you can then drive electrically. We make the use of Adblue with Twindosing even more efficient than before."
