VW T-Prime Concept GTE – Auto China Live

Previews a new full-size crossover for the future.

Volkswagen has unveiled the VW T-Prime Concept GTE show car at Auto China 2016 (2016 Beijing Motor Show) in Beijing. The T-Prime Concept GTE is actually a full-size crossover that will eventually make it to production as a vehicle likely positioned above the Touareg.

The T-Prime Concept GTE is based on the Volkswagen Group's modular longitudinal platform (MLB). With a length of 5,069 mm, it's 10 mm longer than the first generation VW Phaeton. Its width and height are measured at 2,000 mm and 1,708 mm respectively. It's powered by a plug-in hybrid powertrain that produces 280 kW (376 hp) and 700 Nm of torque.

The plug-in hybrid system comprises a 2.0-litre TSI turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine developing 185 kW (182 hp) and 370 Nm of torque and an electric motor generating 100 kW (99 hp) and 350 Nm of torque. Power is sent to the wheels via an 8-speed automatic gearbox. The concept crossover is also equipped with 4MOTION permanent all-wheel drive system as well as a limited-slip differential.

The electric motor gets its power from a 14.1 kWh battery and provides a zero emissions driving range of up 50 km. It can be fully charged using a 3.6 kW AC source in eight hours or a 7.2 kW source in two and a half hours. The combined fuel economy figure in NEDC cycle for plug-in hybrid vehicles is 37.04 km/l. The T-Prime Concept GTE offers three driving modes: E-Mode, Hybrid and GTE. In the GTE driving mode, which offers maximum power from the combustion engine and the electric motor, it can reach from 0-100 km/h in 6 seconds and touch a top speed of 224 km/h.