Volkswagen Group has set binding environmental principles for the sustainable development and production of its vehicles, which will serve as a guideline for all its brands. The company will aim to develop models with better environmental properties than its predecessors.
The principles cover three main areas: cutting the fuel consumption and GHG emissions of its vehicles; ensuring resource efficiency and resource conservation and providing health protection.
The company is currently developing powertrain technologies and using alternative fuels and other energy storage systems.
Starting in late 2010, Audi will offer a hybrid version of its Q5 premium SUV in the U.S., according to Wolfgan Hatz, head of powertrain development for the Volkswagen group.
In order to provide health protection, the company is focusing on exhaust and interior emissions as well as reducing exterior and interior noise levels.
