In only a couple of weeks, Volkswagen will make the important unveiling of its next-generation Mk 7 Golf hatchback.
While new business practices often encourage operations to diversify investments and resources, Volkswagen has gone particularly old school and are putting all its eggs into one basket. Having sold 29 million Golf hatchbacks to date, the next-generation Golf not only has to carry the burden of its predecessors' success on its shoulders, but the Golf will be responsible for protecting VW's future as well: the all-new Golf will be the first vehicle launched that will feature VW's latest modular MQB architecture. A high-investment project, the MQB platform will soon underpin nearly 40 future models and some 3.5 million cars.
What makes the MQB so special and so worth VW's time and efforts? About 2.2-inches longer, 0.5 inch wider, 1.1 inches lower, the MQB is designed to be a whole lot more versatile structurely so that it can be applicable to many different bodystyles. VW has successfully found a way to make the MQB 100 kg, or 220 lbs., lighter than its predecessor as well. Thanks to this key engineering achievement, the Golf can potentially enjoy a gain in fuel efficiency by up to 23 percent, and reduce carbon dioxide emission by 13.9 percent. What's more, the new MQB chassis will cost no more to manufacture than the current platform.
According to German publication Der Spiegel, Volkswagen engineers found a way to pursue weight savings and structural rigidity without the need of expensive materials such as aluminum, magnesium, or carbon fiber.
Other than the MQB itself, VW has shed 3 kg worth of electrical components, developed an engine up to 22 kg lighter, 37 kg off the Golf's body, and even a few extra grams from the seats by utilizing high tensile steel to make the seats less bulky.
Clearly, shedding weight to improve fuel efficiency and performance is Volkswagen's primary goal, but don't think VW will hold back on safety features and creature comforts either. According to the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, the new Golf promises "all imaginable infotainment and electric assistance gadgets. In fact, the new Golf will even feature the first "multi collision brake" system that works to avoid a second impact after an initial collision.
An all-out effort, expect the official unveiling of the new Golf and Golf GTI concept at the upcoming Paris Motor Show in September.
