VW will introduce the plug-in hybrid Golf GTE Sport at the LA Auto Show [Gallery]

Volkswagen announced today that the Golf GTE Sport plug-in hybrid will make its North American debut at the Los Angeles International Auto Show, which starts November 19. Although the vehicle is still only in its concept phase, considering the “Dieselgate” situation, some expect VW to accelerate its electric car projects in order to compensate for the recent scandal, which could lead to the potential commercialization of the GTE Sport. The powertrain of the GTE Sport consists of a four-cylinder 1.6-liter TSI engine and two electric motors. In all-electric mode, the vehicle uses the battery to drive up to 31 miles on a single charge. Once the battery is depleted, the car switches to “Hybrid mode” and the TSI engine kicks in.

VW explains the different drive modes:

As soon as the drive system or the driver deactivates “E-Mode”, the Golf GTE Sport becomes a classic full hybrid with regenerative braking to charge the battery. When the driver releases the accelerator pedal, and the battery is sufficiently charged, all drive sources are shut off. If the driver releases the accelerator pedal or brakes, and the battery is insufficiently charged, the two electric motors operate as generators and charge the lithium-ion battery with the energy recovered from braking. The battery’s energy content can be deliberately kept constant by the driver in “Battery Hold” mode or increased with “Battery Charge” mode. When the 1.6-liter TSI engine is the sole source of propulsion, the GTE Sport is a pure front-wheel drive car.

When the driver activates the “GTE” switch, the character of the Golf GTE Sport’s drivetrain changes drastically. The full system power of 395 horsepower is available—the turbocharged 295-hp gas engine is combined with the electric drive components. The Golf GTE Sport sprints from rest to 62 mph in 4.3 seconds.

Gallery:

Golf GTE Sport Technical Data