FABRIZIO BENSCH/REUTERS
The charging plug of an electric Volkswagen Passat car is pictured at charging station at a VW dealer in Berlin. Volkswagen plans to invest US$11 billion (NZ$15.5 billion) in a push toward electric vehicles – releasing 30 such models by 2025 – as well as ride-hailing and autonomous driving.
VW is investing in plug-in hybrid / EV technology now, principally for the European market. Offering the same range for sale in the US is principally about image, not in the expectation of shifting large volumes. VW, you’re already in trouble over the emissions issues. Now get that straightened, fix your image, then worry about going for alternative fuels. A Jetta TDI was on my short list for if my ancient car blew up, but by the time it actually did, the truth about your stupidity came to light. You need to win back a lot of people’s trust first.
The company has taken a US$20 billion hit since it was caught using software to undermine emissions tests on its diesel vehicles. It is expected to reach a settlement in a San Francisco court this month that would compensate owners of affected vehicles.
VW’s are cars for kids. They’re disposable.