Volkswagen to develop 10-speed DSG and new engines for lower emissions

German automaker Volkswagen is developing a 10-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) with a dual clutch system in its quest for better engine performance and lower levels of emissions. This new gearbox will be fitted in many of the future premium Volkswagen vehicles around the world.
At present, the ZF 8-speed automatic gearbox is a preferred choice for most of the luxury car manufacturers. Interestingly, Land Rover announced the launch of a cutting edge 9-speed automatic transmission system (AT) in March 2013. American automakers like General Motors and Ford Motor Co. are also working on 9-speed and 10-speed transmission gearboxes.
Speaking at the Vienna Motor Symposium, Volkswagen Group Chief Martin Winterkorn stated that the company is also working on a new high-performance diesel engine, which would bring down CO2 emissions to its target of 95 gm/kg by the year 2020. This engine would be capable of developing 134 bhp of power per 1000 cc of engine capacity.
It would have a variable valve train assembly, with a high-pressure injection system and a new electric turbocharger e-booster. Winterkorn also felt that the efficiency of petrol and diesel engines could be improved by an additional 15% through enhancements in the fuel combustion process. These improvements include a lightweight design and better thermal management.
Commenting on the future where natural gas technology could also be used in vehicles, he said, “The technology is fully developed and the vehicles are already in the market. We need to make the public even more aware of the benefits of natural gas engines. Everyone needs to play their part in this: carmakers, politicians and the fuel industry.”
At present, plug-in technology is commonly used in vehicles, as it is the most efficient powertrain option for the long run. But based on the developments being made by Volkswagen, Ford Motor Co., and General Motors, the future of energy-efficient vehicles looks bright.
(May 2, 2013)