VW teases Multivan PHEV for this year

The Multivan eHybrid plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) developed by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is due to be launched this year.

VW says the hybrid combination allows the PHEV van to travel long distances.

“Push the start button, shift the dual-clutch gearbox (DSG) by wire to ‘D’, press down on the accelerator and the front-wheel-powered MPV pulls silently away as it starts in ‘e-mode’ (100% electric),” the company says. 

VW doesn’t yet reveal range and other specifications, but it says electric range will be “dimensioned in such a way that the typical daily distances can be covered without emissions”.

At higher speeds and/or low battery charge levels, a turbocharged petrol engine (TSI) additionally cuts in.

“For the Multivan, which can seat up to seven people, the plug-in hybrid is an ideal drive system, as it combines zero emissions in urban settings with the ability to do long journeys, such as going on holiday, with a minimal number of stops,” VW says.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles design head Albert Kirzinger says: “You can go about your everyday life in the city fully electrically. And on long journeys, you can enjoy the benefits of a powerful hybrid drive.”

The lithium-ion battery in the underbody saves on space and simultaneously lowers the MPV’s centre of gravity with a positive effect on handling.

The Multivan’s battery is charged externally via an interface in the front wing on the right-hand side and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will be offering its own charging card for charging the electrified MPV at public charging points, plus wall boxes for quick charging at home.

The new Multivan will launch with different drive system versions in the second half of this year.