VW Reveals 10-Speed Gearbox, Other Fuel-Saving Technologies

Volkswagen AG has showcased several near-term technologies it expects to adopt to meet upcoming fuel economy and carbon dioxide emission standards.

Perhaps the most intriguing is a 10-speed dual-clutch transmission. VW says the gearbox, which it mentioned at a conference in May, can handle as much as 406 lb-ft of torque.

A second innovation is a next-generation stop-start system that cuts off the engine during deceleration at speeds below 4 mph and at much higher speeds when the driver releases the accelerator pedal. VW says the technology is especially frugal when motorists adopt an "anticipatory" driving style.

The company also hints it may further enhance the performance of its new 2.0-liter, 237-hp, 4-cylinder bi-turbo diesel with a variant that makes 268 hp. VW says the higher output can be achieved with a variable valvetrain, more highly optimized gas exchange cycles and electric booster.

VW notes that it has begun higher-volume production of a sheet steel system that sandwiches a polymer-thermoplastic between two thin layers of steel.