Protecting the environment through technology
By constantly employing the latest technological developments, Volkswagen engineers work hard to continually improve fuel economy and engine CO2 emissions, as well as enhancing the general performance and driving characteristics of our vehicles. Recent success stories include our TDI diesel engines, TSI and FSI petrol engines, BlueMotion models and the Direct Shift Gearbox® (DSG) – all of which enhance driver appeal and help protect the environment.

Direct Shift Gearbox® (DSG)
Your Volkswagen’s fuel consumption, and consequently its emissions, are not determined by its engine alone. The objectives of Volkswagen’s eco-friendly technologies are to make steps forward in maximising fuel efficiency. The dual-clutch gearbox (DSG) is an example of how technology can help fuel efficiency. It enhances comfort with smooth gear changes, while its lower power loss means that it achieves far better fuel economy compared to other automatic transmissions.

TDI diesel engines
The TDI diesel engine is known for being powerful and frugal – a true model of efficiency. Volkswagen’s diesel direct injection currently offers the highest efficiency of any diesel engine, as it converts into motion a remarkable proportion of the energy stored in the fuel. No wonder the first car to average 3 litres per 100km was a Volkswagen TDI.

TSI petrol engines
Volkswagen is also leading the way when it comes to petrol engine fuel economy. With the TSI engine, we are the first manufacturer worldwide to develop innovative twin-charger engines, that combine petrol direct injection and twin-charging – with a turbocharger and supercharger. This allows the engine to produce an impressive power output from a small displacement – thus reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

Making a difference with BlueMotion
The BlueMotion badge identifies the most energy efficient models across our range. Nearly every Volkswagen model range features a BlueMotion version. By reducing fuel consumption, we help avoid unnecessary emissions. Compared with equivalent standard models, they allow you to save at least half a litre of fuel every 100km. Using an innovative approach, we've refined our existing technology to design a line-up of advanced cars that will help to protect the planet and your pocket.

To achieve these improvements, we looked at every way to make our cars cleaner and more efficient, whilst still being great fun to drive. We’ve done this by improving aerodynamics, modifying engines, lowering weight and taking advantage of cutting-edge technology, such as low-friction tyres and stop-start engine technology.

EcoFuel – gas power for lower exhaust emissions
Powering vehicles with natural gas is an attractive alternative to petrol and diesel engines, as it produces less CO2. Volkswagen’s range features EcoFuel models that are powered by natural gas, but can also run on petrol when required. These days, using natural gas as fuel is no problem, as it involves no sacrifices in the everyday running of a vehicle. It not only means considerable savings on fuel costs, but also contributes to protecting the environment, since EcoFuel models produce 20% less CO2 than similar petrol engined models.

Future innovation and engineering excellence
Take a glimpse into the future of driving by sharing some of the pioneering innovations and potential we’re currently working on. From the Concept A, our vision of the ideal Volkswagen, to the EcoRacer, an incredibly economic sports car capable of 100 miles per gallon, you’ll find plenty to fire your imagination.