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VOLKSWAGEN AND CARLOS SAINZ WIN RALLY TRANSIBÉRICO
WOLFSBURG, Germany - Volkswagen repeats last year’s exploit: In the Rally Transibérico, Volkswagen driver Carlos Sainz clinched his first overall victory in the Race Touareg.
The Spaniard, together with his French co-driver Michel Périn, won three of four legs, finishing 7.43 minutes in front of Mitsubishi driver Nani Roma after 1200 timed kilometres. With a 15.40-minute gap, the Portuguese Carlos Sousa and his German co-driver Andreas Schulz in the second Race Touareg captured third place in the FIA Cross-Country Rally World Cup's season opener.
For the Race Touareg powered by a 285-hp 2.5-litre TDI diesel engine, this marked the sixth overall victory in the Cross-Country World Cup. This brings the prototype's tally since 2004 to 54 stage victories and 48 days of leading the events. Whereas the two-time World Rally Champion Carlos Sainz celebrated his first overall cross-country rally win, his co-driver Michel Périn already clinched his 25th victory in this discipline, and his fourth in Portugal. Last year, the Volkswagen duo of Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz had won the rally on the Iberian peninsula.
Kris Nissen (Volkswagen Motorsport Director)
"A super result. The technology worked well every day of the event. The driver, co-drivers and the team did a great job. It was our first revenge against Mitsubishi in 2007. But more importantly yet, it was a good preparation for the 2008 Dakar Rally as the first legs in Portugal as well as the final ones in Senegal will be similar. In addition, we made a few smaller strides concerning the suspension. That's why we're satisfied across the board."
#6 – Carlos Sainz (E), 3rd place (day) / 1st position overall
"I'm happy about my first victory for Volkswagen and my first triumph in a cross-country rally. It's a great success for the team and for me. The four legs were extremely rough, hot and strenuous because we were constantly busy in the cockpit on those twisty tracks. In the beginning, we built a nice advantage and after that kept our pace under control. I want to really thank the entire Volkswagen squad for providing me with a Race Touareg that was absolutely running like a charm throughout the rally."
#6 – Michel Périn (F), co-driver
"It was a super rally. Carlos and I worked together perfectly. As both of our backgrounds are in classical rallies, we always prepared notes on the first part of the special stages for the second round, and this probably served us well. This rally was very tough – due to the quick and rough special stages and the long liaison legs we were out for many hours, with only few breaks to get some rest in between. So, this victory makes me all the happier.”
#4 – Carlos Sousa (P), 4th place (day) / 3rd position overall
"My sincere congratulations to Carlos Sainz! He truly deserves this victory. He and Mitsubishi driver Nani Roma have shown a strong performance here. The top four in this event gave everything from the prologue through to the finish. This was probably the fastest rally I've ever driven. I'm happy with our podium position. Our Race Touareg was running superbly. What's more, I like this rally, we last contested it ten years ago. Although the routes have changed since then, I did like these stages as well. Also, the event was well organised and the atmosphere was great everywhere."
#4 – Andreas Schulz (D), co-driver
"It's been a good rally, and third place is a nice success even though I'd been hoping for a little more. We were surprised how good our rivals were on these twisty tracks. Personally, I really liked the tracks that were unusually level for an offroad rally: it's nice to be able to contest a rally without being shaken about as much as in the rough desert stages in Africa.”
Tentative final result, Rally Transibérico (P/E), 31 May - 03 June 2007
Pos., Team, Vehicle, Total time
1. Carlos Sainz/Michel Périn (E/F), Volkswagen Race Touareg 2, 13h33m41s
2. Joan Roma/Lucas Cruz (E/E), Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution + 7m43s
3. Carlos Sousa/Andreas Schulz (P/D), Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 + 15m40s
4. Luc Alphand/Gilles Piccard (F/F), Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution + 17m29s
5. Filipe Campos/Jaime Baptista (P/P), Proto Dessoude + 54m16s
6. Helder Oliveira/José Marques (P/P), Toyota Land Cruiser + 1h40m11s
7. Nuno Inocêncio/Sérgio Cosme (P/P), Mitsubishi Pajero + 1h54m20s
8. Maurizio Traglio/Erika Pajer (I/I), Nissan Pathfinder + 2h03m00s
9. Balász Szalay/László Bunkoczi (H/H), Opel Antara + 2h06m33s
10. Francesc Termens/Jordi Vilalta (E/E), Mitsubishi Montero + 2h20m30s
SUCCESSFUL NORTH AMERICA DÉBUT OF THE RACE TOUAREG
WOLFSBURG, Germany - Impressive début of the Volkswagen Race Touareg in North America: In the Baja 500 offroad classic, the factory duo of Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford (USA/South Africa) clinched class victory ahead of their team-mates Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz (South Africa/Germany).
In the overall classification of the 273 competing vehicles, Miller/Pitchford took eleventh, and de Villiers/von Zitzewitz 16th place. Volkswagen impressed particularly with its modern TDI diesel technology as the two Race Touareg cars powered by 2.5-litre five-cylinder TDI engines were the only vehicles to complete the 420.11-mile (675.92-km) Baja 500, which is considered the world's toughest one-day rally, without a single refuelling stop.
"This was a strong showing of the Race Touareg on unusual and extremely tough terrain, and this success proves its ruggedness and reliability. Both Touaregs were running perfectly, the tyres on both vehicles were changed only once – that was all," Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen summed up the positive outcome. "The drivers and co-drivers as well as the entire team prepared themselves perfectly for this unusual task, and our special thanks go to Volkswagen of America for their outstanding support."
Race Touareg thrills and surprises fans
As early as during the tremendous parade to the Technical Scrutineering in the centre of the North Mexican town of Ensenada, the Race Touareg was the major attraction for the huge crowd of fans. This prototype, which was developed for fielding in the world famous Dakar Rally, appeared virtually compact amidst the huge Trophy Trucks and Buggies with their brawny V8 engines. After several official pre-runs of the route preceding the actual rally on 02 June, Giniel de Villiers was definitely pensive: "The track is so brutal that it will be a success just taking both Touaregs all the way to the finish." Initially, these were the sentiments of many Americans as well, but with each mile the enthusiasm for the two blue Race Touareg cars of the Volkswagen Red Bull team grew.
"It's fantastic how well our Race Touaregs were running on this tough terrain,” commented Mark Miller. The American, who – with co-driver Ralph Pitchford at his side – finished this year's Dakar Rally in fourth place overall, knows what he's talking about, having contested the Baja 500 as many as ten times, with five overall Baja victories to his credit. "Of course I'm very proud being able to contest the Baja with Volkswagen and to thus demonstrate the Touareg's power and performance this way,” Mark Miller added. "The fact that we achieved this success with a diesel engine that is relatively quiet but develops incredible torque and, what's more, without having to refuel even once while the U.S. vehicles had to stop for fuel two or even three times is a milestone in the long history of the Baja and proves how advanced TDI technology is."
Giniel de Villiers, runner-up in the 2006 "Dakar" in the Race Touareg, noted with surprise:
”Only on the extremely bumpy parts of the track did we have a disadvantage compared to the U.S. vehicles with their long suspension travels, as we are subject to extreme limitations in this regard on account of the Dakar regulations. Except for this aspect, we were definitely able to keep the pace and were often even faster. Due to the huge amount of dust, though, or the tight tracks, we weren't able to overtake very often. After all, we didn't want to take any unnecessary risks.”
Reaching the finish after ten hours
When Miller/Pitchford and de Villiers/von Zitzewitz reached the finish in Ensenada after ten hours, they were showing obvious signs of the ordeal and the endless dust they'd been through. "It's incredible how we were shaken about over the entire distance. I can feel every fibre of my body,” commented Ralph Pitchford. And Mark Miller, as well, had to admit: "That was the toughest, most brutal route I've ever driven in a Baja 500."
Consequently, the Volkswagen foursome particularly relished the celebration after reaching the finish, and patiently answered questions of the many fans and media representatives. "This Baja 500 is a huge spectacle with enormous fan support and enthusiasm. The event exceeded all my expectations. It was a great experience, a strenuous as well as a fascinating one," said Dirk von Zitzewitz in the end.
Baja history has close ties to Volkswagen
By fielding the two Race Touraregs, Volkswagen of America continued a long tradition, as the history of these rallies on the Mexican peninsula of Baja California, not far from the U.S. city of San Diego, is closely linked to Volkswagen. Volkswagen already competed in the Baja's 1967 début, and the legendary VW Buggy was guaranteed to be successful in the Bajas and became a cult car. To this day, numerous cars designed by privateers, some of them based on the Beetle, are powered by VW engines.
"During the pre-runs for this Baja 500 we even worked out new suspension set-ups, which may enable us to make further strides in the Dakar Rally, particularly in camel grass," explained Mark Miller. "Of course it would be great to also compete in the sister rally, the Baja 1000, in November. The Race Touareg has got what it takes to successfully master this long Baja as well. But at that time, of course, the preparations for the 2008 ‘Dakar' will take precedence.”
CHICAGO VOLKSWAGEN DEALERS ARE GOING GREEN: CUSTOMERS WILL RECEIVE A TREK LIME BIKE WITH PURCHASE OR LEASE OF NEW RABBIT IN JUNE
CHICAGO—Chicago Volkswagen dealers are offering a Trek Lime bike and a Saris bike rack to customers who purchase or lease a new Rabbit from June 1 to July 2, 2007.
“When owners are out driving a considerable distance, we encourage them to drive their fuel-efficient Rabbit,” said Stuart Karp, central region director, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “If it’s a quick hop around town, we encourage them to help the environment and ride their new Trek Lime bike.”
With a starting price of under $15,000, the Rabbit offers either a five-speed manual or a six-speed Tiptronic® automatic transmission. The Rabbit conforms to the Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (PZEV) guidelines and has an estimated EPA mileage of 30 mile per gallon highway.
The Lime, one of Trek’s newest bikes, comes standard with Shimano’s coasting technology, incorporating a three-speed automatic transmission that changes gears automatically to make bike riding more enjoyable. The Lime is also customizable with “skins,” a chain guard grip color decal, which can be switched out to the color of your choice. The Lime’s most important features are its environmental friendliness and promotion of a healthy lifestyle.
This promotion is available at participating Chicago-area Volkswagen dealers.
VOLKSWAGEN DESERT RACING TEAM MAKES STRONG FACTORY DEBUT AT 39TH TECATE SCORE BAJA 500
AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – A pair of Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 vehicles, from the automaker’s acclaimed Dakar Rally Factory Team, claimed two top-20 finishes at the 39th Annual Tecate SCORE Baja 500 in Ensenada, Mexico.
The Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 team was paced by American Mark Miller, with an 11th place finish in the International Truck Class, and South African teammate Giniel de Villers, who took 18th place in the same division.
This event marked Volkswagen of America’s first official factory entry in the SCORE Desert Racing series. Miller piloted the #81i Red Bull Race Touareg 2 to a time of 10:00:38 hours, while de Villers’ #83i Race Touareg crossed the finish line at 10:18:44 hours. Round three of the six-race 2007 SCORE Desert Series featured a record lineup of 492 competitors in 28 Pro and six Sportsman classes for cars, trucks, motorcycles and ATVs. This year’s tight and technical 424.22-mile course saw only 283 competitors, or 57 percent of all participants, finish within the 20-hour time limit.
“The results of this race are very positive for Volkswagen,” said Clark Campbell, Volkswagen of America Motorsports manager. “While the Race Touareg SUV is built for an entirely different type of racing, our two finishes clearly demonstrates the vehicle’s reliability, efficiency, and speed, proving that we are more than capable of competing with the best of the competition.”
"That was the toughest, most brutal route I’ve ever driven in a Baja 500,” said event veteran Mark Miller, driver of the #81i Race Touareg. "The course was very difficult and you can’t believe the abuse this thing took – I can’t believe I can even stand up right now. It’s the roughest thing that this vehicle has ever endured.”
His teammate, Giniel de Villiers, said the vehicle’s shorter suspension system held up admirably, even against typical, Baja-equipped competitors.
”Only on the extremely bumpy parts of the track did we have a disadvantage, compared to the U.S. vehicles, with their long suspension travels. We are subject to limitations in this regard on account of the Dakar regulations,” said de Villiers “Despite this technical difference, we were definitely able to keep the pace and perform even faster in some stretches of the course.”
The Race Touaregs were likely helped by the efficiency of the 2.5 L in-line five-cylinder TDI engine, as they were the only two vehicles that did not have to stop to refuel during the entire race. Additionally, they suffered no mechanical problems; combined, the two vehicles only made three pit stops along the course, to replace a spare tire that had fallen off and for both vehicles to receive fresh tires.
"The fact is that we achieved this success with a diesel engine that is relatively quiet but develops incredible torque,” said Miller. “We participated not having to refuel even once, while the U.S. vehicles had to stop for fuel two or even three times. This is a testament to how advanced and fuel efficient the TDI technology truly is.”
“The drivers and co-drivers put in a magnificent performance,” said Campbell. “The entire Volkswagen Red Bull race team was superb – we had a strong plan going into this and everyone helped to execute according to that plan – the preparation was awesome.”
VOLKSWAGEN TO START AT GERMANY’S BIGGEST RACE
WOLFSBURG, Germany - Volkswagen returns to Germany’s biggest car race with two Golf GTIs. The two factory-built and entered race cars participate in the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring from 7 to 10 June.
Volkswagen continues the brand's long amateur sport tradition, which includes the 24-hour race in the Eifel, with the seriously modified 300 hp production based Golf GTI touring car.
Festival of superlatives in the Eifel
Superlatives describe the 24-hour race: One lap through the "Green Hell” is 25.378 kilometres, the combined length of the Nordschleife and Nürburgring Grand Prix circuit is greater than any other race track. The 24-hour classic has been held since 1970. Also, a maximum of 230 cars can practice for the forthcoming 35th running of this marathon, while 220 are permitted to start the race – no other starting grid for a 24-hour race is so big. Over 700 drivers, some from abroad, face up to the motorsport marathon. And finally, the race visited by approximately 200,000 spectators also competes for attendance records in Germany. "It is the largest motorsport spectacle in Germany and Europe,” says Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen. "We are not competing for overall victory, for us it is purely and simply a question of being a part of the action with two cars in this unique long-distance race. As the brand's best-selling model, the Golf races in front of the largest conceivable motorsport crowd – a fitting backdrop.”
Unusual driver squad includes Board Member and "stars of tomorrow"
From Executive Board Member via Dakar Rally truck driver to Volkswagen junior – hardly ever has a driver squad been so wide-ranging. In detail: One Golf GTI (start number 101) is driven by Dr Ulrich Hackenberg, Member of the Board of Management with responsibility for Development of the Volkswagen brand, Bernd Ostmann (Gerlingen), Chief Editor of the specialist magazine ‘auto motor und sport', who has regularly participated in record attempts and races for Volkswagen – including the Nürburgring 24-hour race. Dieter Depping (Wedemark) and the Belgian François Verbist, who each drove a Volkswagen Race Truck in the Dakar Rally in January 2007 and who have also distinguished themselves as fast race drivers, complete this squad. A second Golf GTI (start number 111) is shared by René Rast (Steyerberg), 2005 ADAC Volkswagen Polo Cup winner and Volkswagen Junior in second year of support, the Swede Jimmy Johansson, who won the 2006 Cup and is also Volkswagen Junior, Florian Gruber (Aham), third in the 2001 ADAC Volkswagen Lupo Cup and 2006 Seat Leon Supercopa Champion, and also Dieter Depping (Wedemark), who is also nominated to drive the second car.
Golf GTI and Nürburgring – two legends come face to face
The current fifth generation of the popular compact hot-hatch starts on the 1927 built race track. The forerunner of all GTIs appeared in 1976; more than 1.5 million examples have rolled-off the production line since. In 1996 the Volkswagen factory team used the 24-hour race to test new technology in race conditions: The turbo-diesel direct-injection power plant launched in parallel on the market proved early that economy and sport do not contradict one another. A year later, Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen, Jürgen Hohenester and DTM driver Christian Abt finished an excellent second overall. As icon for every sporting compact class car, the GTI, in its current race specification, produces 220 kW/300 hp – exactly 50 per cent or 100 hp more than the production car. The two-litre TFSI turbo engine transmits its power through a six-speed DSG-Direct Shift Gearbox. Volkswagen Motorsport developed the race car in only four months. In addition to unique design solutions, the technicians benefited from the resources and race-proven developments available within the affiliated group.
Racing under the R-Line banner – Michelin as technical partner
The two Golf GTIs race under the R-Line banner at the Nürburgring. Unveiled in December 2006, this Volkswagen Individual GmbH brand markets special interior and exterior sporting optional-equipment kits for the Golf, Touran, Passat and Touareg. The R-Line products borrow characteristic design elements from the high-performance Golf R32 or Passat R36 and therefore enable a cost-effective entry into the world of the sporting Volkswagen. Volkswagen cooperates with Michelin in the after-sales tyre market. The traditional French company is regarded as internationally recognised, expert partner whose list of motorsport triumphs boasts innumerable wins at the 24-hour race.
Test during endurance runs and during test races
Volkswagen undertook a comprehensive test programme to be thoroughly prepared for the long-distance race. The first example of the Golf GTI to be built completed 24-hours at race pace in endurance runs held in Oschersleben – including night stints. In the four-hour long-distance race around the Nürburgring on 12 May, the Golf GTI proved to be fast and reliable straight out of the box by finishing in fourth place in the SP3T class in the hands of Dr Ulrich Hackenberg, Bernd Ostmann and René Rast. During the same race, François Verbist and Jimmy Johansson prepared themselves for the 24-hour marathon at the wheel of a Cup Pole. "In spite of the short development time available we instigated a demanding test programme that the Golf GTI reliably completed,” emphasises Kris Nissen. "We are well prepared and aim to show the fans just what the GTI can do. It is quite possible that this race could acts as catalyst for future amateur sport projects.”
VOLKSWAGEN REPEATS AS BEST FULL-LINE CORPORATION IN STRATEGIC VISION STUDY
AUBURN HILLS, Mich.— Volkswagen of America, Inc. announced today that they have been named the best-full line manufacturer by Strategic Vision for the second consecutive year and the Rabbit was rated the top vehicle in its class in the annual Strategic Vision Total Quality Index™ (TQI), which measures new vehicle owner satisfaction.
“On top of strong quality, the Volkswagen Rabbit hits a strong emotional chord with its buyers,” said Alexander Edwards, president, Strategic Vision. “Overall, Volkswagen vehicles have proven to be of high-quality and owners are passionate about the brand and their vehicles.”
The Rabbit was ranked above several strong competitors in the small multi-function segment. Additionally, the new GTI finished second overall in the small specialty category.
“Volkswagen has continued to do well in the Strategic Vision Total Quality Awards,” said Adrian Hallmark, executive vice president, Volkswagen of America. “It reiterates that our vehicles are well crafted and fun to drive and that our owners are some of the most passionate drivers in the market.”
Hallmark added, “Our continuing commitment to building high-quality vehicles is evident in important quality surveys, like Strategic Vision; it is Volkswagen’s objective to continue to improve our quality and receive scores among the top tier."
The Strategic Vision Total Quality Index looks at all aspects of the ownership experience, from buying and owning to driving. It correlates satisfaction with the complete ownership experience, perception of quality, owner reported delight, future purchase intent and emotional attachment to the vehicle.
WOLFSBURG, Germany - Volkswagen repeats last year’s exploit: In the Rally Transibérico, Volkswagen driver Carlos Sainz clinched his first overall victory in the Race Touareg.
The Spaniard, together with his French co-driver Michel Périn, won three of four legs, finishing 7.43 minutes in front of Mitsubishi driver Nani Roma after 1200 timed kilometres. With a 15.40-minute gap, the Portuguese Carlos Sousa and his German co-driver Andreas Schulz in the second Race Touareg captured third place in the FIA Cross-Country Rally World Cup's season opener.
For the Race Touareg powered by a 285-hp 2.5-litre TDI diesel engine, this marked the sixth overall victory in the Cross-Country World Cup. This brings the prototype's tally since 2004 to 54 stage victories and 48 days of leading the events. Whereas the two-time World Rally Champion Carlos Sainz celebrated his first overall cross-country rally win, his co-driver Michel Périn already clinched his 25th victory in this discipline, and his fourth in Portugal. Last year, the Volkswagen duo of Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz had won the rally on the Iberian peninsula.
Kris Nissen (Volkswagen Motorsport Director)
"A super result. The technology worked well every day of the event. The driver, co-drivers and the team did a great job. It was our first revenge against Mitsubishi in 2007. But more importantly yet, it was a good preparation for the 2008 Dakar Rally as the first legs in Portugal as well as the final ones in Senegal will be similar. In addition, we made a few smaller strides concerning the suspension. That's why we're satisfied across the board."
#6 – Carlos Sainz (E), 3rd place (day) / 1st position overall
"I'm happy about my first victory for Volkswagen and my first triumph in a cross-country rally. It's a great success for the team and for me. The four legs were extremely rough, hot and strenuous because we were constantly busy in the cockpit on those twisty tracks. In the beginning, we built a nice advantage and after that kept our pace under control. I want to really thank the entire Volkswagen squad for providing me with a Race Touareg that was absolutely running like a charm throughout the rally."
#6 – Michel Périn (F), co-driver
"It was a super rally. Carlos and I worked together perfectly. As both of our backgrounds are in classical rallies, we always prepared notes on the first part of the special stages for the second round, and this probably served us well. This rally was very tough – due to the quick and rough special stages and the long liaison legs we were out for many hours, with only few breaks to get some rest in between. So, this victory makes me all the happier.”
#4 – Carlos Sousa (P), 4th place (day) / 3rd position overall
"My sincere congratulations to Carlos Sainz! He truly deserves this victory. He and Mitsubishi driver Nani Roma have shown a strong performance here. The top four in this event gave everything from the prologue through to the finish. This was probably the fastest rally I've ever driven. I'm happy with our podium position. Our Race Touareg was running superbly. What's more, I like this rally, we last contested it ten years ago. Although the routes have changed since then, I did like these stages as well. Also, the event was well organised and the atmosphere was great everywhere."
#4 – Andreas Schulz (D), co-driver
"It's been a good rally, and third place is a nice success even though I'd been hoping for a little more. We were surprised how good our rivals were on these twisty tracks. Personally, I really liked the tracks that were unusually level for an offroad rally: it's nice to be able to contest a rally without being shaken about as much as in the rough desert stages in Africa.”
Tentative final result, Rally Transibérico (P/E), 31 May - 03 June 2007
Pos., Team, Vehicle, Total time
1. Carlos Sainz/Michel Périn (E/F), Volkswagen Race Touareg 2, 13h33m41s
2. Joan Roma/Lucas Cruz (E/E), Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution + 7m43s
3. Carlos Sousa/Andreas Schulz (P/D), Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 + 15m40s
4. Luc Alphand/Gilles Piccard (F/F), Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution + 17m29s
5. Filipe Campos/Jaime Baptista (P/P), Proto Dessoude + 54m16s
6. Helder Oliveira/José Marques (P/P), Toyota Land Cruiser + 1h40m11s
7. Nuno Inocêncio/Sérgio Cosme (P/P), Mitsubishi Pajero + 1h54m20s
8. Maurizio Traglio/Erika Pajer (I/I), Nissan Pathfinder + 2h03m00s
9. Balász Szalay/László Bunkoczi (H/H), Opel Antara + 2h06m33s
10. Francesc Termens/Jordi Vilalta (E/E), Mitsubishi Montero + 2h20m30s
SUCCESSFUL NORTH AMERICA DÉBUT OF THE RACE TOUAREG
WOLFSBURG, Germany - Impressive début of the Volkswagen Race Touareg in North America: In the Baja 500 offroad classic, the factory duo of Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford (USA/South Africa) clinched class victory ahead of their team-mates Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz (South Africa/Germany).
In the overall classification of the 273 competing vehicles, Miller/Pitchford took eleventh, and de Villiers/von Zitzewitz 16th place. Volkswagen impressed particularly with its modern TDI diesel technology as the two Race Touareg cars powered by 2.5-litre five-cylinder TDI engines were the only vehicles to complete the 420.11-mile (675.92-km) Baja 500, which is considered the world's toughest one-day rally, without a single refuelling stop.
"This was a strong showing of the Race Touareg on unusual and extremely tough terrain, and this success proves its ruggedness and reliability. Both Touaregs were running perfectly, the tyres on both vehicles were changed only once – that was all," Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen summed up the positive outcome. "The drivers and co-drivers as well as the entire team prepared themselves perfectly for this unusual task, and our special thanks go to Volkswagen of America for their outstanding support."
Race Touareg thrills and surprises fans
As early as during the tremendous parade to the Technical Scrutineering in the centre of the North Mexican town of Ensenada, the Race Touareg was the major attraction for the huge crowd of fans. This prototype, which was developed for fielding in the world famous Dakar Rally, appeared virtually compact amidst the huge Trophy Trucks and Buggies with their brawny V8 engines. After several official pre-runs of the route preceding the actual rally on 02 June, Giniel de Villiers was definitely pensive: "The track is so brutal that it will be a success just taking both Touaregs all the way to the finish." Initially, these were the sentiments of many Americans as well, but with each mile the enthusiasm for the two blue Race Touareg cars of the Volkswagen Red Bull team grew.
"It's fantastic how well our Race Touaregs were running on this tough terrain,” commented Mark Miller. The American, who – with co-driver Ralph Pitchford at his side – finished this year's Dakar Rally in fourth place overall, knows what he's talking about, having contested the Baja 500 as many as ten times, with five overall Baja victories to his credit. "Of course I'm very proud being able to contest the Baja with Volkswagen and to thus demonstrate the Touareg's power and performance this way,” Mark Miller added. "The fact that we achieved this success with a diesel engine that is relatively quiet but develops incredible torque and, what's more, without having to refuel even once while the U.S. vehicles had to stop for fuel two or even three times is a milestone in the long history of the Baja and proves how advanced TDI technology is."
Giniel de Villiers, runner-up in the 2006 "Dakar" in the Race Touareg, noted with surprise:
”Only on the extremely bumpy parts of the track did we have a disadvantage compared to the U.S. vehicles with their long suspension travels, as we are subject to extreme limitations in this regard on account of the Dakar regulations. Except for this aspect, we were definitely able to keep the pace and were often even faster. Due to the huge amount of dust, though, or the tight tracks, we weren't able to overtake very often. After all, we didn't want to take any unnecessary risks.”
Reaching the finish after ten hours
When Miller/Pitchford and de Villiers/von Zitzewitz reached the finish in Ensenada after ten hours, they were showing obvious signs of the ordeal and the endless dust they'd been through. "It's incredible how we were shaken about over the entire distance. I can feel every fibre of my body,” commented Ralph Pitchford. And Mark Miller, as well, had to admit: "That was the toughest, most brutal route I've ever driven in a Baja 500."
Consequently, the Volkswagen foursome particularly relished the celebration after reaching the finish, and patiently answered questions of the many fans and media representatives. "This Baja 500 is a huge spectacle with enormous fan support and enthusiasm. The event exceeded all my expectations. It was a great experience, a strenuous as well as a fascinating one," said Dirk von Zitzewitz in the end.
Baja history has close ties to Volkswagen
By fielding the two Race Touraregs, Volkswagen of America continued a long tradition, as the history of these rallies on the Mexican peninsula of Baja California, not far from the U.S. city of San Diego, is closely linked to Volkswagen. Volkswagen already competed in the Baja's 1967 début, and the legendary VW Buggy was guaranteed to be successful in the Bajas and became a cult car. To this day, numerous cars designed by privateers, some of them based on the Beetle, are powered by VW engines.
"During the pre-runs for this Baja 500 we even worked out new suspension set-ups, which may enable us to make further strides in the Dakar Rally, particularly in camel grass," explained Mark Miller. "Of course it would be great to also compete in the sister rally, the Baja 1000, in November. The Race Touareg has got what it takes to successfully master this long Baja as well. But at that time, of course, the preparations for the 2008 ‘Dakar' will take precedence.”
CHICAGO VOLKSWAGEN DEALERS ARE GOING GREEN: CUSTOMERS WILL RECEIVE A TREK LIME BIKE WITH PURCHASE OR LEASE OF NEW RABBIT IN JUNE
CHICAGO—Chicago Volkswagen dealers are offering a Trek Lime bike and a Saris bike rack to customers who purchase or lease a new Rabbit from June 1 to July 2, 2007.
“When owners are out driving a considerable distance, we encourage them to drive their fuel-efficient Rabbit,” said Stuart Karp, central region director, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “If it’s a quick hop around town, we encourage them to help the environment and ride their new Trek Lime bike.”
With a starting price of under $15,000, the Rabbit offers either a five-speed manual or a six-speed Tiptronic® automatic transmission. The Rabbit conforms to the Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (PZEV) guidelines and has an estimated EPA mileage of 30 mile per gallon highway.
The Lime, one of Trek’s newest bikes, comes standard with Shimano’s coasting technology, incorporating a three-speed automatic transmission that changes gears automatically to make bike riding more enjoyable. The Lime is also customizable with “skins,” a chain guard grip color decal, which can be switched out to the color of your choice. The Lime’s most important features are its environmental friendliness and promotion of a healthy lifestyle.
This promotion is available at participating Chicago-area Volkswagen dealers.
VOLKSWAGEN DESERT RACING TEAM MAKES STRONG FACTORY DEBUT AT 39TH TECATE SCORE BAJA 500
AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – A pair of Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 vehicles, from the automaker’s acclaimed Dakar Rally Factory Team, claimed two top-20 finishes at the 39th Annual Tecate SCORE Baja 500 in Ensenada, Mexico.
The Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 team was paced by American Mark Miller, with an 11th place finish in the International Truck Class, and South African teammate Giniel de Villers, who took 18th place in the same division.
This event marked Volkswagen of America’s first official factory entry in the SCORE Desert Racing series. Miller piloted the #81i Red Bull Race Touareg 2 to a time of 10:00:38 hours, while de Villers’ #83i Race Touareg crossed the finish line at 10:18:44 hours. Round three of the six-race 2007 SCORE Desert Series featured a record lineup of 492 competitors in 28 Pro and six Sportsman classes for cars, trucks, motorcycles and ATVs. This year’s tight and technical 424.22-mile course saw only 283 competitors, or 57 percent of all participants, finish within the 20-hour time limit.
“The results of this race are very positive for Volkswagen,” said Clark Campbell, Volkswagen of America Motorsports manager. “While the Race Touareg SUV is built for an entirely different type of racing, our two finishes clearly demonstrates the vehicle’s reliability, efficiency, and speed, proving that we are more than capable of competing with the best of the competition.”
"That was the toughest, most brutal route I’ve ever driven in a Baja 500,” said event veteran Mark Miller, driver of the #81i Race Touareg. "The course was very difficult and you can’t believe the abuse this thing took – I can’t believe I can even stand up right now. It’s the roughest thing that this vehicle has ever endured.”
His teammate, Giniel de Villiers, said the vehicle’s shorter suspension system held up admirably, even against typical, Baja-equipped competitors.
”Only on the extremely bumpy parts of the track did we have a disadvantage, compared to the U.S. vehicles, with their long suspension travels. We are subject to limitations in this regard on account of the Dakar regulations,” said de Villiers “Despite this technical difference, we were definitely able to keep the pace and perform even faster in some stretches of the course.”
The Race Touaregs were likely helped by the efficiency of the 2.5 L in-line five-cylinder TDI engine, as they were the only two vehicles that did not have to stop to refuel during the entire race. Additionally, they suffered no mechanical problems; combined, the two vehicles only made three pit stops along the course, to replace a spare tire that had fallen off and for both vehicles to receive fresh tires.
"The fact is that we achieved this success with a diesel engine that is relatively quiet but develops incredible torque,” said Miller. “We participated not having to refuel even once, while the U.S. vehicles had to stop for fuel two or even three times. This is a testament to how advanced and fuel efficient the TDI technology truly is.”
“The drivers and co-drivers put in a magnificent performance,” said Campbell. “The entire Volkswagen Red Bull race team was superb – we had a strong plan going into this and everyone helped to execute according to that plan – the preparation was awesome.”
VOLKSWAGEN TO START AT GERMANY’S BIGGEST RACE
WOLFSBURG, Germany - Volkswagen returns to Germany’s biggest car race with two Golf GTIs. The two factory-built and entered race cars participate in the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring from 7 to 10 June.
Volkswagen continues the brand's long amateur sport tradition, which includes the 24-hour race in the Eifel, with the seriously modified 300 hp production based Golf GTI touring car.
Festival of superlatives in the Eifel
Superlatives describe the 24-hour race: One lap through the "Green Hell” is 25.378 kilometres, the combined length of the Nordschleife and Nürburgring Grand Prix circuit is greater than any other race track. The 24-hour classic has been held since 1970. Also, a maximum of 230 cars can practice for the forthcoming 35th running of this marathon, while 220 are permitted to start the race – no other starting grid for a 24-hour race is so big. Over 700 drivers, some from abroad, face up to the motorsport marathon. And finally, the race visited by approximately 200,000 spectators also competes for attendance records in Germany. "It is the largest motorsport spectacle in Germany and Europe,” says Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen. "We are not competing for overall victory, for us it is purely and simply a question of being a part of the action with two cars in this unique long-distance race. As the brand's best-selling model, the Golf races in front of the largest conceivable motorsport crowd – a fitting backdrop.”
Unusual driver squad includes Board Member and "stars of tomorrow"
From Executive Board Member via Dakar Rally truck driver to Volkswagen junior – hardly ever has a driver squad been so wide-ranging. In detail: One Golf GTI (start number 101) is driven by Dr Ulrich Hackenberg, Member of the Board of Management with responsibility for Development of the Volkswagen brand, Bernd Ostmann (Gerlingen), Chief Editor of the specialist magazine ‘auto motor und sport', who has regularly participated in record attempts and races for Volkswagen – including the Nürburgring 24-hour race. Dieter Depping (Wedemark) and the Belgian François Verbist, who each drove a Volkswagen Race Truck in the Dakar Rally in January 2007 and who have also distinguished themselves as fast race drivers, complete this squad. A second Golf GTI (start number 111) is shared by René Rast (Steyerberg), 2005 ADAC Volkswagen Polo Cup winner and Volkswagen Junior in second year of support, the Swede Jimmy Johansson, who won the 2006 Cup and is also Volkswagen Junior, Florian Gruber (Aham), third in the 2001 ADAC Volkswagen Lupo Cup and 2006 Seat Leon Supercopa Champion, and also Dieter Depping (Wedemark), who is also nominated to drive the second car.
Golf GTI and Nürburgring – two legends come face to face
The current fifth generation of the popular compact hot-hatch starts on the 1927 built race track. The forerunner of all GTIs appeared in 1976; more than 1.5 million examples have rolled-off the production line since. In 1996 the Volkswagen factory team used the 24-hour race to test new technology in race conditions: The turbo-diesel direct-injection power plant launched in parallel on the market proved early that economy and sport do not contradict one another. A year later, Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen, Jürgen Hohenester and DTM driver Christian Abt finished an excellent second overall. As icon for every sporting compact class car, the GTI, in its current race specification, produces 220 kW/300 hp – exactly 50 per cent or 100 hp more than the production car. The two-litre TFSI turbo engine transmits its power through a six-speed DSG-Direct Shift Gearbox. Volkswagen Motorsport developed the race car in only four months. In addition to unique design solutions, the technicians benefited from the resources and race-proven developments available within the affiliated group.
Racing under the R-Line banner – Michelin as technical partner
The two Golf GTIs race under the R-Line banner at the Nürburgring. Unveiled in December 2006, this Volkswagen Individual GmbH brand markets special interior and exterior sporting optional-equipment kits for the Golf, Touran, Passat and Touareg. The R-Line products borrow characteristic design elements from the high-performance Golf R32 or Passat R36 and therefore enable a cost-effective entry into the world of the sporting Volkswagen. Volkswagen cooperates with Michelin in the after-sales tyre market. The traditional French company is regarded as internationally recognised, expert partner whose list of motorsport triumphs boasts innumerable wins at the 24-hour race.
Test during endurance runs and during test races
Volkswagen undertook a comprehensive test programme to be thoroughly prepared for the long-distance race. The first example of the Golf GTI to be built completed 24-hours at race pace in endurance runs held in Oschersleben – including night stints. In the four-hour long-distance race around the Nürburgring on 12 May, the Golf GTI proved to be fast and reliable straight out of the box by finishing in fourth place in the SP3T class in the hands of Dr Ulrich Hackenberg, Bernd Ostmann and René Rast. During the same race, François Verbist and Jimmy Johansson prepared themselves for the 24-hour marathon at the wheel of a Cup Pole. "In spite of the short development time available we instigated a demanding test programme that the Golf GTI reliably completed,” emphasises Kris Nissen. "We are well prepared and aim to show the fans just what the GTI can do. It is quite possible that this race could acts as catalyst for future amateur sport projects.”
VOLKSWAGEN REPEATS AS BEST FULL-LINE CORPORATION IN STRATEGIC VISION STUDY
AUBURN HILLS, Mich.— Volkswagen of America, Inc. announced today that they have been named the best-full line manufacturer by Strategic Vision for the second consecutive year and the Rabbit was rated the top vehicle in its class in the annual Strategic Vision Total Quality Index™ (TQI), which measures new vehicle owner satisfaction.
“On top of strong quality, the Volkswagen Rabbit hits a strong emotional chord with its buyers,” said Alexander Edwards, president, Strategic Vision. “Overall, Volkswagen vehicles have proven to be of high-quality and owners are passionate about the brand and their vehicles.”
The Rabbit was ranked above several strong competitors in the small multi-function segment. Additionally, the new GTI finished second overall in the small specialty category.
“Volkswagen has continued to do well in the Strategic Vision Total Quality Awards,” said Adrian Hallmark, executive vice president, Volkswagen of America. “It reiterates that our vehicles are well crafted and fun to drive and that our owners are some of the most passionate drivers in the market.”
Hallmark added, “Our continuing commitment to building high-quality vehicles is evident in important quality surveys, like Strategic Vision; it is Volkswagen’s objective to continue to improve our quality and receive scores among the top tier."
The Strategic Vision Total Quality Index looks at all aspects of the ownership experience, from buying and owning to driving. It correlates satisfaction with the complete ownership experience, perception of quality, owner reported delight, future purchase intent and emotional attachment to the vehicle.
