Volkswagen Multivan gains new all-wheel-drive PHEV powertrain

Volkswagen has introduced a new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) engine to the Multivan line-up.

The Multivan eHybrid 4Motion replaces the previous PHEV offering, using an all-new powertrain setup.

There's a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine under the bonnet, which works in conjunction with two electric motors. By placing an electric motor on each axle, the Multivan eHybrid gains all-wheel-drive.

A19.7kWh battery is fitted, almost doubling the capacity provided by the previous model. It supports 11kW AC charging and 50kW DC charging. The Multivan eHybrid 4Motion has a zero-emission range of 59 miles.

Up to a speed of 40mph, the rear electric drive motor is always activated to provide all-wheel drive ‘starting assistance’. The electric rear-axle drive is also available when the battery is empty. The power required for the electric drive motor at the rear axle is automatically generated by the TSI engine and the front electric motor, which, in this case, acts as a generator.

Using a decoupling unit, the rear electric drive motor can be automatically removed from the rear axle drive by hybrid control in order to increase efficiency under normal traction conditions. 

The new eHybrid 4Motion engine will be offered on the Multivan and the California.

UK prices are yet to be confirmed.