January 2012
Via West
Page 1
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January 2012
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CONTACT US VOLKSWAGEN CLUB OF WA (Inc)
Page 2
YOUR COMMITTEE (cont‟d) EDITOR:
0407 347 340
PO Box 175
Ray Willis
viawest@vwclubwa.com
Victoria Park
CONCESSION LICENCE:
(08) 9332 6919
ABN:
Western Australia 6979 31 610 140 537
Rod McSwain CMC LIAISON OFFICER:
(08) 9342 8703
TELEPHONE:
(08) 9342 8703
Richard Hines
E-MAIL:
info@vwclubwa.com
PROPERTY OFFICER:
WEBSITE:
www.vwclubwa.com
Richard Hines
MAIL:
MERCHANDISE OFFICER: YOUR COMMITTEE
(08) 9342 8703 0417 173 886
Karen Fyfe
PRESIDENT:
0408 183 396
SOCIAL SECRETARY:
Jamie Barrett
executive@vwclubwa.com
Colin Seth
VICE PRESIDENT:
0415 165 175
SPORTS ORGANISER:
John Hornby
As above
Currently grouped under “Events Coordinator”
SECRETARY:
0407 347 340
PUBLICITY OFFICER:
Ray Willis
administration@vwclubwa.com
As above
MEMBERSHIPS:
0407 347 340
GENERAL COMMITTEE:
Ray Willis
administration@vwclubwa.com
Karla & Merrick Paget (country liaison South West)
TREASURER:
0438 819 443
WEBMASTER:
Shane Williams
finance@vwclubwa.com
Tina Moore
Patrick Spiteri, Dave Moore,
webmaster@vwclubwa.com
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January 2012
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Page 3
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January 2012
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VIAWEST MAGAZINE
VOLKSWAGEN EVENTS
Advertising: Please send your „for sale‟ or „wanted‟ adverts by mail or email to the Editor before the publication deadline.
Please contact the Editor to find out about commercial advertising in the magazine, inserting flyers or advertising on the website.
Normally one event will be nominated as the club run each month. Some months will have more than one event. Not all events attended by the club will be club organised. Please note that non-members are welcome to come to the club organised events. If you have any friends you would like to accompany us, please bring them along. If you have any ideas or suggestions for club organised events give a Committee member a call or an e-mail and the committee so we can put it on our calendar. The VW Events Calendar is at page 6 and lists the upcoming events and club runs for some months in advance in chrono-
Publication Deadline: The ViaWest magazine‟s deadline for articles for the next issue is FEBRUARY 19
COMMITTEE MEETINGS
Fees: Members - 1/4 page adverts are free. Non-Members - 1/4 page adverts are $5.00
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the Volkswagen Club of WA (Inc), its Committee or members.
Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month at John Hughes Volkswagen in Victoria Park, starting at 6:30pm. Committee meetings are open to all members and invited guests.
Membership and Birthdays Welcome to new members No new memberships in January so far
Happy Birthday
IN THIS ISSUE
page
The Club ............................. p 2
121 “paid up” memberships (represents 255 people)
The Club (contd) ................. p 4 VW Event Calendar ............ p 5
We will be following up on members that did not renew this year, so if you know somebody that has not, you may want to mention it to them.
Tax on Fuel ......................... p 6 February Club Run .............. p 7
Bill Cullen
March Club Run .................. p 13 My Bitsa Project .................. p 14
Helen Keillor
VWs @ Dwellingup ............ p 8 Aldinga Bug-In 2012 ............ p 10
April Club Run ..................... p 17
Raelene Doran
BBQ @ Point Walter ........... p 18
to the following members for
Stephen Lawson
Volkswagen News
JANUARY
Emma Faulkner
E-Bugster ...................... p 19 Amarok Award .............. p 21
Robert Lafferty
Martin Toohey
Duncan Mann
Grant Townsend
Scirocco R Award ......... p 22
Jerry Heldt
Sam Baylis Middleton
VW sales records .......... p 23
Rose Van Son
Jessica Shepherd
Karla Paget
Lauren Storrs
Gerald Charles Frensham
Scarlett Faulkner
Ton Verbunt
Christian Jones
BlueMotion Vans ........... p 21
uP! Award ..................... p 24 VW Awards ................... p 25 New VW HQ ................. p 26 FRONT COVER:
VWs @ Dwellingup
Peter Richards Russell Maslin Wayne Rowett
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January 2012
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This Month
Page 5
February 2012 #
Wednesday 1st
ALFRED‟S of GUILDFORD
indicates a club run
7pm cnr of Meadow & James St Guildford Wednesday 8th
MONTHLY COMMITTEE MEETING 6:30pm @ John Hughes Volkswagen, Victoria Park
Contact: Ray Willis 0407 347 340
Sunday 19th #
VWs DAY AT THE BEACH (Penguin Island)
Contact: Jon Hornby 0415 165 175
See page 7 Wednesday 22nd
2012 DAY OF THE VOLKSWAGEN
Contact: Ray Willis 0407 347 340
Meeting venue to be decided
March 2012 Wednesday 7th
ALFRED‟S of GUILDFORD 7pm cnr of Meadow & James St Guildford
Wednesday 14th
MONTHLY COMMITTEE MEETING
Contact: Ray Willis 0407 347 340
6:30pm @ John Hughes Volkswagen, Victoria Park Saturday 17th #
OLD COAST RD BREWERY - CAMPING WEEKEND Contact: Ray Willis 0407 347 340 Details in the February magazine
Wednesday 28th
2012 DAY OF THE VOLKSWAGEN Meeting venue to be decided
Contact: Ray Willis 0407 347 340
April 2012 Wednesday 4th
ALFRED‟S of GUILDFORD 7pm cnr of Meadow & James St Guildford
Friday 6th
2012 ALDINGA BUG-IN (South Australia)
- Monday 9th
See page 10
Wednesday 11th
MONTHLY COMMITTEE MEETING
Contact: Ray Willis 0407 347 340
Contact: Ray Willis 0407 347 340
6:30pm @ John Hughes Volkswagen, Victoria Park Sunday 22nd #
AUTO ONE CLASSIC CAR SHOW 2012 See page xxx
Contact: Richard Hines 9342 8703
Wednesday 25th
2012 DAY OF THE VOLKSWAGEN
Contact: Ray Willis 0407 347 340
Meeting venue to be decided
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January 2012
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Page 6
Taxation of alternative fuels!
by Rod McSwain
If you use alternative fuel and have noticed an increase recently, then this is why...
Taxation of Alternative Fuels Legislation Amendment Act 2011 Announced: The implementation by the Government of the longstanding policy to tax alternative fuels was announced in the then Assistant Treasurer and the Minister for Resources and Energy's joint Media Release No. 099 of 13 May 2010. The date of effect of the new tax changes was extended from 1 July 2011 to 1 December 2011 and announced in the Assistant Treasurer and Minister for Financial Services and Superannuation's Media Release No. 017 of 24 January 2011. The Government announced on 12 May 2011 that there will be a 10-year moratorium on changes to the taxation and grant arrangements for ethanol, biodiesel, renewable diesel and methanol. After the 10-year period, there will be a review of the arrangements. Under the current law the general rate of fuel tax of 38.143 cents per litre (cpl) which applies to petrol and diesel also applies to biodiesel, renewable diesel and ethanol, but not to liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), liquefied natural gas (LNG), compressed natural gas (CNG) or methanol. Financial impact: This measure is estimated to have a gain to Budget revenue over the forward estimates period of $518.5 million comprising: 2011 - 12
2012 - 13
2013 - 14
2014 - 15
$16.5m
$102m
$166m
$234m
Table 2.6 : Phase 1 - Relative fuel tax rates for alternative fuels under the previously announced measures (assuming a full fuel excise rate of 38.143 cpl ) Fuel type Petrol cpl
Energy Content Band High
Diesel cpl
High
38.1
38.1
38.1
38.1
38.1
38.1
Biodiesel cpl
High
0
3.8
7.6
11.4
15.3
19.1
Renewable diesel cpl
High
0
3.8
7.6
11.4
15.3
19.1
Domestic Ethanol cpl
Mid
0
2.5
5.0
7.5
10.0
12.5
Imported Ethanol cpl
Mid
38.1
2.5
5.0
7.5
10.0
12.5
LPG cpl
Mid
nil
2.5
5.0
7.5
10.0
12.5
LNG cpl
Mid
nil
2.5
5.0
7.5
10.0
12.5
Methanol cpl
Low
nil
1.7
3.4
5.1
6.8
8.5
CNG cpm3
Other
nil
3.8
7.6
11.4
15.3
19.0
1 July 2010
1 July 2011
1 July 2012
1 July 2013
1 July 2014
1 July 2015
38.1
38.1
38.1
38.1
38.1
38.1
Table 2.7 Phase 2 - changes to legislated fuel tax rates Fuel type
Energy Content Band
1 July 2016
1 July 2017
1 July 2018
1 July 2019
1 July 2020 ( final rate )
Petrol cpl
High
38.1
38.1
38.1
38.1
38.1
Diesel cpl
High
38.1
38.1
38.1
38.1
38.1
Biodiesel cpl
High
22.9
26.7
30.5
34.3
38.1
Renewable diesel cpl
High
22.9
26.7
30.5
34.3
38.1
Domestic Ethanol cpl
Mid
15.0
17.5
20.0
22.5
25.0
Imported Ethanol cpl
Mid
15.0
17.5
20.0
22.5
25.0
LPG cpl
Mid
15.0
17.5
20.0
22.5
25.0
LNG cpl
Mid
15.0
17.5
20.0
22.5
25.0
Methanol cpl
Low
10.3
12.0
13.7
15.4
17.1
A full report can be found at http://www.comlaw.gov.au/Details/C2011B00077/Explanatory%20Memorandum/Text
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January 2012
Via West
Page 7
CLUB RUN - FEBRUARY 2012 the second roundabout (the only Shoalwater cruise takes 90 mins we can take a right at) we take and runs at 10.45am (and VWs DAY AT one the last exit (right) into Malibu Drive. 12.45pm peak season). This costs We follow Malibu Drive to the end. $85. THE BEACH Turn right into Arcadia Drive. NOTE: the sand bar is permanently
Sunday 19th February Ok, lets meet at Fast Eddies at the Carousel at 8am, have a quick bite a set off about 9am, then head south on Albany Highway for 17 miles (28km's).
Turn right on to Thomas Rd and soon we will cross Tonkin Highway...anyone wanting to meet we should be there about 9.45am. (suggestion is to turn right off Tonkin Highway and wait in the Celebrations Bottle Shop car park...a couple of hundred meters on the left). At about 9:50am we will be crossing the Kwinana Freeway. At the end of Thomas Rd we turn left into Rockingham Rd, which eventually changes name to Patterson Road. We keep on this until we reach the traffic lights at Read Road. Turn left into Read Rd. We go thru several sets of lights, then at
Continue along until Arcadia Drive swings sharp right there is a gift shop and booking office on the beach side. Park in the car park. We are at our destination PENGUIN ISLAND. If the car park is full (if its windy the kite surfers will be out in force) then there's plenty of street parking in the side streets, DO NOT park on Arcadia Drive! If you are travelling from elsewhere, you can go direct to PENGUIN ISLAND, we should arrive about 10:20am. The ferry travels every hour on the hour and costs $12 (return). You can feed the penguins for an extra $5.50. Penguin and Sea Lion cruises are at 10.15 am, 11.15am, 1.15am. This is a 45 min trip in a glass bottom boat and costs $34.50.
closed to people traffic, but the island is open and free to all visitors in water craft. There are no cafes or food / drinks sold on the island, so take your own and remove all your rubbish too! There seems to be plenty to see and do in the area, a short drive away is Peron Point but please be careful where you park as cars have been robbed in the quiet car parks. On the road trip look out for...a wind turbine...coloured elephants...reptile house...dead things...old cars (there are loads in Rockingham)...animals, lots of horse's cows, roo's, etc etc Remember this is NOT a race, and if you want to stop for tree fresh mangoes, strawberries, or even turf, feel free to, you can always catch up with us at PENGUIN ISLAND. For further information on the event, contact Jon Hornby 0415 165 175
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January 2012
Via West
Page 8
Dwellingup VW Camping Trip November 2011 Jamie Barrett A few of us in the club are keen campers and have often frequented the beautiful national park in Dwellingup. The pine plantations, rivers, flora and fauna in this part of WA of just so tranquil it calls you back time after time. With the fire ban held off until December the 1st we were able to take wood to put the icing on the cake with a fire to sit around and talk Veedubs. The Dog friendly campsite at Nanga Mill was our chosen spot. The trip down on Friday afternoon started in Midland with a couple of us meeting up to get down there and find a spot. The hustle and bustle of Roe Hwy and Tonkin Hwy helped us appreciate South West Highway and the drive up and into Dwellingup townsite. The steady cruise 6kms down the unsealed roads to the campsite would be seen as a hold up for some people but I really enjoy that part of the trip the most, driving along and over the river surrounded by bush and the smell of already lit camp fires and driving an old Volkswagen, knowing that you have a weekend of relaxation ahead - well it doesnâ€&#x;t get much better than that. We picked our slopy site out of the remaining choice we had left. Many others had the same idea as us. Their new not so shiny four wheel drives didnâ€&#x;t look as fitting as the kombis parked up. No sooner than we had set ourselves up and lit the fire we heard the distinct sound of an air-cooled engine in the distance. Mike and his daughter Casey smiling away in their open buggy pulled up and claimed a flat patch for their tent. Not far behind them was Gaz and his dog Elfie in their blue Bay window pop top. Both had made the last minute decision to join us after spotting the event on the club forum. As dark fell, another bay window kombi stopped in the distance with its naturally dim headlights, a brighter torch used to locate our waving hands. (Continued on page 9)
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January 2012
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Page 9 (Continued from page 8)
Baxter, Graham and Debbie had finally made it with a busy day behind they soon joined us round the fire for dinner. We all enjoyed an early morning wake up on Saturday with tea and cooked breakfast on the hotplate of the fire pit. A 25km mountain bike ride for a couple of us filled the morning and helped work the big breakfast off. On our return to the site we were joined by two other kombis and two other dogs; Pete and Sonia with their blue heeler, Dave, Tina and little Karman. Later the same day we were joined by yet another family in their Beautiful early Split. The dogs enjoyed walks through the forest and swimming in the cold water. We all enjoyed the warmth of the fire and the near full moon on Saturday night. Unfortunately the weekend had to end, and returning to Perth in our convoy on Sunday afternoon turned many heads and put smiles not only on their faces. The relaxing was over as soon as I got home – washing the bus (and my Mrs‟ Golf) brought me back down from the high! It was a great trip. Thanks to all those that came along it was a pleasure to meet the new people (and dogs). I hope that everybody that came enjoyed the trip as much as I did. I would love to see many more attend in the future. Can you imagine seeing 50 Volkswagens in those beautiful surrounds – What a picture that would make!
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Page 10
Sunday 8th
Update MOTORSPORT (Option 1) We will be conducting four events at same venue – the Tailem Bend Latest News! the Motorsport Park. The traditional MoFinally the VW Club of SA can present to you some details and REGISTRATION FORM for this year‟s Bug-In. Apologies for the tardiness, but better late than never! Listed below are details of the events we will be conducting and also included is the registration form which we would like you to return to us by the end of February with a minimum 20% deposit. We require the amount of people who will be partaking in the different activities for catering purposes, so the deadline for your deposit is critical. Friday 6th April REGISTRATION NIGHT This will be the opportunity to renew old friendships and enjoy a BBQ tea. You will receive all the details and maps required for the duration of the Bug-In. The cost includes all food and drink (beer, wine and soft drinks) Saturday 7th
torkhana and a Khanacross will be held on a dirt surface, while a ¼ mile drag and another Khanacross will be held on bitumen. The entry fee for the two dirt events will be $30 each and $60 for each bitumen event, however if you wish to enter both bitumen events there will be a ment. If this is not possible, we will reduction of a total of $20. book a tour at AAMI Stadium, followed SOUTH COAST CRUISE (Option 2) by lunch at the Port Dock Brewery HoA cruise has been arranged travelling tel which also conducts tours of their underground brewery. Other attracsouth from Aldinga to Cape Jervis where Kangaroo Island is clearly visi- tions nearby are a railway museum ble, then to Victor Harbor where a vari- and an aviation museum. ety of sights and shops are available. Thursday 12th PRESENTATION DINNER An easy drive north of Adelaide will A three course meal has been organ- take us to the famous Barossa Valley ised in a private room at Serafino‟s in where will visit Peter Lehmann Winery McLaren Vale, where all trophies for and have a tour provided. Various oththe Show „n‟ Shine and Motorsport will er attractions and wineries will be inbe awarded. cluded during this leisurely day. Monday 9th
Friday 13th
AUF WIEDERSEHN OR EXTENDED TOUR
A day out on Adelaide‟s public transport doesn‟t sound exciting, howSHOW „N‟ SHINE ever we will take the O-Bahn bus to COORONG CRUISE the city, followed by the tram to This will be held on the lawns of the After travelling down to Goolwa, we Glenelg. Later in the day we come picturesque Serafino Winery at McLarboard a vessel which takes us past back to the city and visit all the action en Vale from 9am to 1pm. the barrage to the Murray River mouth. at the famous Central Market. SCENIC CRUISE On the way to Godfrey‟s Landing we are served lunch before being guided Starting at Serafino‟s at 1.15pm, we on a boardwalk through the sand SO, IN CONCLUSION – PLEASE will visit Woodstock Winery and the dunes of the Younghusband PeninsuSEND YOUR COMPLETED REGISFruchoc factory in the McLaren Vale la. TRATION FORM AND 20% DEPOSIT area followed by a cruise through WilBY THE END OF FEBRUARY! lunga and Myponga where, time perTuesday 10th mitting, we will drop into a micro brewAny queries – contact Mal Dodd on Near the city of Adelaide we will visit ery. A short drive later we will drive (08) 8289 4707 or 0402 334 008 or one of the best chocolate manufactur- email mkdodd@internode.on.net over the Myponga Dam wall before ers in the country – Haigh‟s. After a heading back to Port Willunga via Sellicks Beach where you can choose short tour, we will travel to Hahndorf – Thanks & keep on buggin‟! a tourist town settled by German setto drive along a stretch of beach takMal ing in the beautiful scenery and setting tlers in the mid 1800s. Plenty to see and do there – including lunch. sun over the ocean.
The REGISTRATION FORM is included with this club magazine Free to take it easy at the Tourist Park This day is still to be confirmed as we or will be available on the VW or go to a restaurant, hotel or cafe in intended to join a tour of the Adelaide Club WA website under the SA nearby McLaren Vale. Oval, however they can‟t confirm if this Bug-In 2012 information. will be possible due to the redevelopEVENING
Wednesday 11th
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January 2012
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Page 11
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January 2012
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Page 12
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January 2012
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VW Club WA Remember to BOOK your LEAVE, ACCOMMODATION and have your TRAVEL plans organised. RAIL TRAVEL... The VW Club WA has been able to secure discount fares Perth to Adelaide v.v. from Great Southern Rail and Indian Pacific for VW Club WA members. The brochure for the discounted rail fares etc can be found on the Club webpage or a copy can be posted to you by contacting Ray Willis (Club Secretary).
Page 13
Currently there is a $250 incentive is available from the McSwain Family to VW Club WA members who drive to/ from their first interstate Bug-In.
-In again allowing up to 5 days driving to get to Perth. You would arrive on the Saturday - both ways within a 2 week holiday.
The offer is available each year until the Bug-In is next hosted in WA and will be distributed as decided by the McSwain Family after suggestions from the committee.
By rail, the train leaves Adelaide on the Thursday and arrives Perth on the Saturday morning, again both ways within 2 weeks.
Perth to Adelaide... By road, cars would normally leave Perth on the Sunday before the Bug-In allowing up to 5 days driving to get to Adelaide - approx. 2700kms or around 500kms per day.
By rail, the train leaves on the Sunday $250 as an incentive to VW Club WA morning arriving in Adelaide on the Members who drive to/from their Tuesday morning. This leaves 3 days FIRST INTERSTATE BUG-IN... to look around or visit places not covered by the Bug-In. When the Bug-In is hosted interstate there is always somebody travelling Adelaide to Perth‌ from WA and in most cases this involves a road trip in at least one direc- By road, cars would normally leave Adelaide on the Tuesday after the Bug tion.
Currently some members have indicated travelling to Adelaide by train with their car and then driving home to Perth.
Please let the Club know if you are going to the South Australian Bug-In, especially if it is at least one way by road...we can all experience a great event and maybe that road trip together!
CLUB RUN - MARCH 2012 Keep the date available, more information to come in the February magazine and on the website!
OLD COAST RD BREWERY - CAMPING WEEKEND Saturday 17th March We are currently planning to visit the OLD COAST ROAD BREWERY on Saturday 17th March. Our last visit there was very well attended.
The Myalup Beach Caravan Park is within walking distance to the beach, has clean showers and toilets, good quality Drinking water, LPG available, Shop, Playground, Barbeques, Recreation room, Good roads, etc.
A location map is provided and the website for the OLD COAST ROAD BREWERY is... http://www.ocrb.com.au/
The Indian Ocean Retreat is built on the beachfront, spacious and selfcontained chalets (some with a Spa), overhead ceiling fans, and comfortable furnishings All chalets have beautiful ocean views!!
The second part of the club run will be 3 Star Chalets (acc. 2-6 people) have a CAMPING WEEKEND on the night all cooking facilities incl. Microwave of the 17th and longer if you wish. It offers an opportunity for our South oven, Refrigerator, Television and West members (just 20 min from Bun- Just down the road from the brewery DVD, and En-Suite. bury) to meet with the Perth members is a turn off towards the ocean to My4 Star "De-Luxe" Chalets have bed(45 minutes from Mandurah) and also alup Beach Caravan Park and the rooms catering for 8-12 pers. One to give the Vee-Dub of yours that Indian Ocean Retreat. Chalet caters for disabled (No Spa). much needed run to a club event. This provides the opportunity for a The website for both is‌ http:// We are looking at having a lunch stay over after the brewery and mak- www.myalupbeachcaravanpark.com.a there as well as sample their home ing a weekend of it. u/index.html. grown medal winning beers.
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January 2012
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Page 14
my bitsa project by Dave Moore Hi fellow vee dubbers, here‟s my bitsa project I have been working on. Based around a 1969 beetle, I am using bits I have laying around and will be modifying a few bits too where I have the urge to do so! Enjoy.....pages 12-14
And the plating starts ...
Bitsa project here we go... That‟s better...
Body didn‟t look too bad, but still need a fair tickle with the welding wand...
Don‟t like the dash too much, but will come back to that later!
Rust cut out and painted with KBS paint...
Chassis off to blasters...
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January 2012
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Page 15
Back to the body, more rust! Cut it out... And its back, not too bad, just a few pin holes...
More painting...
Coated in KBS paint and stone guard...
New metal...
Done. All assembled with new brake and fuel lines etc. All suspension cleaned and painted...
Rear panel was damaged, so might as well make it removable!
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January 2012
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Page 16
(Continued from page 14)
WANTED
Sneak peak of dash!
VW Kombi Type 1 I am searching for a VW Kombi, preferably a Type 1 split screen in good condition. Please feel free to call or email me. Thanks and Regards,
Contact : Matt Inman Mobile: 0400 303 186 Email: Matthew.Inman@riotinto.com All welding done and ready for body work.
Thatâ€&#x;s it for this instalment. Dave.
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January 2012
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Page 17
CLUB RUN - APRIL 2012 They will become available at a later date from the VW Club – contact will Auto One be me, Richard Hines phone: (08) 8703. Classic Car 9342 NO Vehicles will be allowed in on after 9 am. NO vehicle moveShow 2012 Sunday ments between 9 am and 3.30 pm on Sunday. Once you are in you will be locked in until 3.30 p.m. This is for public liability insurance reasons and The Auto One Classic Car Show run it will be rigidly enforced. If you want by the Council of Motoring Clubs to leave early, then park in the public (CMC) will be on again this year at Whiteman Park, on Sunday 22 April. It car parks. is on this year in April and from then Overnight camping is permitted on on in April, as people have said that Saturday 21st. March is too hot. Camping is designed for security, not Access is from Lord Street, Beecha night out, so please be cool about it. boro Road North and Marshall Road Because of past unruly behaviour the via Dulwich Road. We expect to have rules will be rigidly enforced. A call out the usual spot and I have asked for of Whiteman Park security will entail a room for 30 cars, so let's make this a $150 fee. That will be transfered to big one. the club and we will extract it from the The gates will open at 6.30 a.m. on campers. Sunday Once in you must remain in. Other-
Sunday 22 April 2012
You must have a free ticket to enter.
wise park in the public car park. No
MUSSEL POOL
noise after 10 pm. No tents erected before 6 pm. Everything packed away by 7.30 am on Sunday. Drive at walking pace only. Showers will be available in the Village Mall on the west wall of workshop 2. Toilets will be unlocked. $1 BBQs are available. People who wish to camp overnight, keep a look out for further information. Spread the word and let's make this a memorable event.
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January 2012
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Page 18
BBQ Picnic at Point Walter Sunday 15th January The club run for January was a family BBQ Picnic at Point Walter. Again the number of attendees did not reflect the clubs large membership, but January is a busy month for all. Thankyou for everybody that attended, it was a very pleasant day with the breeze coming off the river and sitting in a nice shady spot. Here is a pictorial of the cars, sorry I missed taking any group photos. Looking forward to the next run.
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January 2012
World Premiere of the E-Bugster, an Electrified Beetle!
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kilometre for kilometre. Now, at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Volkswagen is showing that this sportiness can also be transferred to a Beetle with pure electric drive. The E-Bugster was specially designed for this mission: a two-seat Beetle speedster, 85 kW in power, 0 to 60 mph in 10.9 seconds, with zero emissions yet the sharpest of proportions.
Blue-e-Motion for a clean future Beetle concept car is powered by an The central electric module of the E85 kW E-motor Bugster has an innovative design; it Zero emissions vehicle was concep- weighs just 80 kg. The energy for powering the electric motor is stored in a tualized as two-seat speedster lithium-ion battery whose modules are For many people, it is the most conhoused in a space-saving location begenial car of a new era: The Beetle! hind the front seats. The battery‟s enThe successor to an automotive icon. ergy capacity of 28.3 kWh enables a Its world premiere took place in April range of at least 110 miles (180 km) in 2011 in New York, and it was launched the urban world. And even in an enoron the market in October. Since then, mous country like the USA, for the mathe sportiest Beetle ever has been jority of commuters this distance is ready to perform – with up to 147 kW sufficient to drive to their workplaces in power. And because all Beetle verand return home. Since the sions are tuned for agility, versions Volkswagen has a quick charging funcwith less horsepower (from 125 kW in tion, the battery can be „refueled‟ within America, from 77 kW in Europe) are 35 minutes at suitable charging stastill simply fun to drive – mile for mile, tions. At home, the battery of the E-
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Bugster can also be charged from the 120-Volt outlets that are usual in America (or from 230-Volt outlets in Europe). The interface for the charge cable is located below the normal „fuel door‟ position near the C-pillar. Thanks to a new Combined Charging Systems – which was developed in cooperation with German carmakers Audi, BMW, Daimler, Porsche and Volkswagen as well as American partners Ford and General Motors / Opel – the E-Bugster can be „filled up‟ via an interface using any of the available charging modalities. Possible are: Single-phase charging with AC current, and Ultra-fast DC charging at charging stations. This will require the development of a new, uniform industry standard for the plug connectors of future electric vehicles that will be available to all manufacturers. And this standardisation even goes beyond the plug connector itself: in the Combined Charging System, the charge controller and the electrical architecture must be able to handle all charging types. This will re(Continued on page 20)
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duce costs and simplify widespread global implementation of electric mobility. Charging the battery while braking Just how much energy the driver of the E-Bugster is requesting with the „electric pedal‟ at any moment is shown in a power display. Instruments also include a driving range indicator and a display showing the battery‟s charge state. Also new in the Beetle is an instrument that shows the driver the intensity of battery regeneration. Regeneration refers to the recovery of braking energy: as soon as the driver‟s foot leaves the accelerator pedal and/ or brakes, kinetic energy is converted into electricity which is stored in the battery. This increases the driving range of the E-Bugster. By the way, Volkswagen calls the complete electric drive unit Blue-e-Motion. As early as in 2013, units under this name will go into production in such vehicles as the Golf.
exception of the ragtop) in October 2011 in the current production Beetle. So, what does the name E-Bugster actually signify? That is easy to explain: a combination of the supplemental identifier „E‟ for electric models, the American nickname for the Beetle, „Bug‟ and the vehicle type „speedster‟ that describes an open-top two-seater. Proportions of a sports car
The E-Bugster is a Beetle that could hardly be made to look more dynamic. Actually, it is a sports car. It has a Bugster? That sounds familiar. Of course: Ragster! That was in January height of less than 1,400 mm, which is about 90 mm less than that of the hard 2005. Also in Detroit. Where top Beetle. And the production model Volkswagen presented a New Beetle as a speedster with a swept-back rag- already looks really powerful with its top (folding roof) – the Ragster. A de- sharply sculpted proportions. The Esign vision for the Beetle of tomorrow. Bugster‟s width (1,838 mm) grew by 30 mm, while its length (4,278 mm) is Wider, lower, sportier. In 2005, the slogan for the concept‟s feasibility was identical to that of the production car. expressed as: “Everything is conceiva- The E-Bugster displays very unique dynamic styling from every viewing ble!”. In 2012, it had advanced to: angle. Design details of production “Everything is feasible!” Because the version were supplemented by new idea of the Ragster – wider, lower, styling elements. In its stance on the sportier – became a reality (with the Visions become versions
road, the concept car looks as though it were cast as a single piece. This is due to a very simple fact: in developing the production model introduced in October 2011, the Beetle design team had already considered all potential derivatives for future models on its radar screen of possibilities. And that is in part how a speedster with an Emotor evolved, the E-Bugster. Bugster front and rear In front, it is the swept-back and wide windscreen that catches the eye; its glass extends laterally to a point above the A-pillars. The E-Bugster, which is equipped with LED headlights, is also distinguished by the highly customized bumpers of the production Beetle: designers integrated the daytime running lights to the left and right of the central air intake as bands of LED lights in a C -shape (naturally mirrored on the right side). Ever since the e-up! (concept car) was presented in Europe, this form of daytime running light has been a type of signet among Volkswagen electric vehicle studies. These styling elements also appear in modified form as reflectors in the rear bumper, which was also redesigned. The rear windscreen of the E-Bugster proves that the rear windows of a speedster do not need to restrict visibility like the arrow slits in castle walls: it is extremely wide. Speedster side profile A speedster needs swept-back windows and a low roof. The E-Bugster has swept-back windows and a low roof! First, let us survey the car‟s side profile. Beneath the typically flared wheel housings there are larger 20(Continued on page 21)
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experience: the Start button not only activates the drive system; it also puts a light show into motion: first, the inte(Continued from page 20) rior is immersed in a white light, then a inch versions derived from 18-inch blue light. It begins with a light pulse in Beetle „Twister‟ wheels, which are the instrument cluster; from there the equipped with size 235/35 R 20 tires. light emanates as a thin line of light, Between the wings, there is the „V‟ on just one millimetre wide, coursing into the flank that is typical of the most fa- the door window sills and around the mous Beetle ever. From the side sill, air nozzles – a kind of visual awakenthe viewer‟s gaze moves upwards over ing of the E-Bugster. the large, smooth homogeneous surface of the door and the contour line above the door handle that looks as though it were carved by a knife. Just a few centimetres above this point, the Beetle becomes a speedster: the designers lengthened the chrome strip of the lower window border towards the rear; it now runs (as it did once on the New Beetle Cabriolet) from A-pillar to A-pillar. The hard top of the „Bug‟ extends in a low arc above this line of chrome. Following the roof radius – in classic speedster style – is the upper border of the side windows. The height between the chrome lower window The new Volkswagen Amarok pick-up border and the uppermost roof line is a has received two more accolades in low 400 mm. And that is how it should the last month, firstly from UK‟s What be for a speedster! Van? who named it the „Best Pick-Up of the Year‟, and also from UK‟s Zoo Progressive interior magazine who crowned the doubleThe combination of high-tech equipcab pick-up „Manliest Motor‟ in its 2011 ment and dynamic performance is also Motoring Awards. reflected in the interior. Sport seats and a continuous centre tunnel in body The Amarok has proved a huge succolor underscore the sporty character cess since arriving in UK Volkswagen Van Centre showrooms last year. Its of the E-Bugster. The use of aluminiother achievements include winning um as the material for the door hanthe „Best Pick-Up‟ category in the Britdles and belt guides, and the lightweight construction styling of the steer- ish Insurance Vehicle Security Awards, replacing a 40 tonne excavator to deing wheel also produce a direct connection between the exterior and interi- molish a 140 tonne steel chimney, and being a support vehicle in the chalor. Starting the E-Bugster is a unique
„Manliest Motor‟ and Best Pick-Up Awards for Volkswagen Amarok
Page 21 lenging Dakar Rally. Zoo magazine‟s verdict on the Amarok said: “The Amarok packs so much testosterone, other cars melt in its presence. It's that manly, the brute can carry a tonne in the rear loading area, can tow over two tonnes and tackle angles up to a 45 degrees.” Although strong and powerful, the Amarok uses Volkswagen‟s latest 2.0litre common rail diesel engine to bring new levels of refinement and efficiency to the pick-up market, yet is just as powerful and more efficient than rivals that still use larger capacity units. It also has some of the lowest CO2 emissions in the sector, and was the first to break the 200 g/km threshold.
Transporter and Crafter BlueMotion Models Released in Europe In the commercial vehicle sector the combination of efficient drive technology and technical highlights, resulting in a model with outstandingly economical consumption, has a name: “BlueMotion”. Two new models have been introduced the Transporter BlueMotion and the Crafter BlueMotion. With consumption values of 6.3 and 7.0 liters, each of these two outstandingly efficient commercial vehicles by Volkswagen sets new standards in its class. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is starting the New Year with two outstanding models in their own right, in the Transporter and the Crafter series. The low consumption values of the Transporter BlueMotion and the Crafter BlueMotion set them apart. With these new additions to the range, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is introducing independent BlueMotion models in the commercial sector for the first time. They are of especial interest to fleet operators and to other customers who are particularly interested in low maintenance costs and (Continued on page 22)
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are environmentally aware. “With the introduction of independent BlueMotion models in the Transporter and Crafter series, we are setting new consumption standards for vehicles in purely commercial use”, says Dr Wolfgang Schreiber, spokesman for the executive board of the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles brand and member of the board with responsibility for development. “Our customers‟ interest in vehicles with low fuel consumption, low maintenance costs and high utility value is extremely important to Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.” The Transporter BlueMotion – a van with a normal roof, a 3,000 mm wheelbase and a maximum permissible gross laden weight of 2.7 tonnes – has the powerful 84 kW 2.0-TDI engine. In addition to the established Transporter BlueMotion Technology – with startstop engine system, regenerative braking (recuperation), tires optimized for rolling resistance, tire pressure control display, plus aerodynamic measures and cruise control – the Transporter BlueMotion also has a specially adapted five-speed transmission and appropriately coordinated engine management.
litres below the Transporter 84 kW 2.0 TDI with BlueMotion Technology – previously the model with the lowest consumption – and makes it the most economical vehicle in its class. The Transporter BlueMotion, which can be ordered as of now, is recognizable by the “BlueMotion” plaque on the radiator grill and at the rear. Its own individual fabric is used in the interior. The Transporter is available on request in the color “Glacier Blue Metallic”, exclusive to BlueMotion models.
The new Crafter BlueMotion, for which orders can also be taken immediately, Thus, thanks to the combined applica- is even available in a choice of two tion of highly efficient consumption engine variants – 80 and 100 kW. Both measures, the Transporter BlueMotion engines require only 7.0 litres of diesel only uses 6.3 litres of diesel per 100 fuel per 100 kilometres, corresponding kilometres, corresponding to CO2 to CO2 emissions of only 184 g/km. emissions of 166 g/km. This puts the Here, too, taking as a basis a Crafter Transporter BlueMotion another 0.4
30 van with normal roof and short wheelbase, the highly effective fuelsaving elements have been combined: start-stop system, with energy management and recuperation, tires optimized for rolling resistance, cruise control and a faster rear axle, which has the effect of reducing rpm. The Crafter BlueMotion is also distinguished from other available Crafter models by the “BlueMotion” plaque on the radiator grill and at the rear, and by the use of its own individual seat fabric. The Transporter and Crafter BlueMotion models are under consideration for introduction to the Australian range by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles with a view to offering the most efficient commercial vehicle fleet in Australia
Volkswagen‟s Scirocco R is TopGear Australia‟s Car of the Year The long awaited Scirocco R has taken out its first Australian award being crowned TopGear Australia‟s Car of the Year 2011. The Scirocco R‟s incredible value for money, sporty design, and firey 2.0-litre engine ensured (Continued on page 23)
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Via West again recorded solid sales growth in 2011, topping all-time sales figures for the brand in Australia.
Overall sales for the Volkswagen brand in Australia of 44,740 vehicles (38,109 Passenger Vehicles, 4,627 The Scirocco R went on sale in DeCommercial Vehicles), exceeded cember last year and it‟s already on 2010‟s record of 38,016 by 6,724 vehitop of the wish list of many prospective cles (18%). customers. Its 188kW TSI engine with Volkswagen Group Australia Managing 330 Nm is able to summon torque at Director, Anke Koeckler, commented: practically any speed range and com“2011 has been another good year for bined with the sophisticated XDL, the Volkswagen. We have seen sales driving behaviour of the agile Scirocco grow steadily which reflects not only R is sporty and precise. The Scirocco our appealing vehicles but the dedicaR is a head turner with its typical “R” tion of our growing dealer network. styling and sexy body design. EnWith several exciting new models hanced by its narrow, unique radiator planned in 2012, I am confident this grille, larger roof edge spoiler, promiyear will see nent glossy black diffuser and “Talladega” style alloy 19” R-wheels, the Scirocco R not only plays the part, it looks the part too. the car‟s top spot amongst a list of high-profile competitors.
Anke Koeckler, Volkswagen Group Australia‟s Managing Director commented. “The Scirocco R arrived with high expectations and we‟re delighted that these have been met. The sporty Scirocco R is a dynamic performer and most importantly affordable and fun to drive. We are happy to see that TopGear Australia agrees.” The Editor of TopGear Australia Magazine, Stephen Corby, had this to say: “We had high expectations for Volkswagen‟s Scirocco R. Stupidly unrealistic expectations, frankly…Incredibly, it not only matched Volkswagen vehicles in all our hopeful hopes and dreams, it even more new customers‟ driveways.” exceeded them”. On top of record total sales, “What we‟ve got here is a very worthy Volkswagen also achieved solid rewinner of Top Gear Australia‟s Car of sults for across its key models. the Year Award for 2011. It‟s hot stuff.” The sixth generation Golf, Volkswagen Group Australia‟s most popular model in the range, achieved a new record high of 18,383 sales in 2011, and was supported by the strong performance of the Polo (36.4% year-on-year increase) and Passat (31.5% year-onyear increase).
Volkswagen Continues RecordBreaking Australian Sales Growth in 2011
Volkswagen Group Australia has once
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles consolidated its market share in 2011‟s challenging light commercial vehicle sector. The Caddy range achieved 2,206 sales, while the popular new Amarok sold a total of 2,649 units.
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Volkswagen Group Delivers Over 8 Million Vehicles for First Time Full year 2011: 14.3 percent increase in deliveries Group Board Member for Sales Christian Klingler: “Further gains under difficult conditions in 2011. Risks on European markets will multiply in 2012” In 2011, the Volkswagen Group clearly exceeded prior-year deliveries, selling over eight million vehicles for the first time in a twelve-month period. A total of 8.16 (2010: 7.14; +14.3 percent)* million vehicles were handed over to customers. Developments on the global passenger car market during the same period were also positive; however growth only ran at 5.1 percent, and Europe‟s largest automaker was therefore able to expand its global market share. The Group brands also closed 2011 on a high note, delivering 650,000 (December 2010: 545,600; +19.1 percent)* vehicles to customers in the month of December. "All Group brands reported further gains under difficult conditions on volatile markets. This outstanding result is clearly a team achievement," the Group Board Member for Sales, Christian Klingler, said. "However, a very challenging year lies ahead. The risks on European markets in particular will multiply in 2012. In spite of this, the Volkswagen Group is well placed and well prepared to master the upcoming challenges and play a leading role on world markets." Positive developments in growth regions and established markets The Volkswagen Group reported a very encouraging sales situation on Asian markets in 2011. Deliveries throughout the Asia / Pacific region grew 19.8 percent to 2.56 (2.14) million units. In China, the largest single market, the Company delivered 2.25 (1.92; +17.2 percent) million vehicles. (Continued on page 24)
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Deliveries in India doubled, with the Group handing over 111,600 (53,300; +109.3 percent) vehicles to customers there. The Volkswagen Group also reported a rise in deliveries in other parts of the world. In South America, a total of 933,400 (887,900; +5.1 percent) vehicles were delivered to customers, while 666,800 (549,200; +21.4 percent) units were handed over in North America. On the U.S. market, Group brands delivered 444,300 (360,300) vehicles in twelve months, representing 23.3 percent growth.
Via West eries to 5.09 (4.50) million units, the Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand closed 2011 with a new record. The brand developed particularly well in the Central and Eastern Europe region, delivering 218,000 (147,900; +47.4 percent) vehicles there. Volkswagen Passenger Cars handed over 496,700 (406,400; +22.2 percent) vehicles to customers in the North America region, and delivered 1.93 (1.65; +16.6 percent) million units in the Asia / Pacific region.
Page 24 ing an increase of 3.1 percent. The Spanish brand made strong gains in particular in Mexico, where deliveries increased by 35.4 percent to 18,100 (13,400) units, in Germany, where 52,000 (43,000; +20.9 percent) vehicles were delivered to customers, and in France, where 36,200 (31,600; +14.6 percent) units were handed over.
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles reported a strong increase of 21.4 percent in 2011, delivering 528,800 Audi delivered 1.30 (1.09; +19.2 per(435,700) units worldwide. Deliveries cent) million vehicles to customers in were particularly robust in the Central the past year. For the premium brand and Eastern Europe region, where from Ingolstadt, 2011 was therefore 36,500 (26,700; +36.6 percent) vehithe best-ever year for sales in the cles were handed over, the Asia / Pacompany‟s history. Deliveries to cuscific region, where customers took tomers in North America totaling possession of 11,700 (7,900; +48.2 The Group also reported a rise in de142,500 (121,500; +17.3 percent) units percent) new vehicles, and in South liveries in Western Europe (excluding contributed to this achievement. In America, where 137,300 (113,600; Germany) where customers took posSouth America, Audi delivered 19,100 +20.9 percent) units were handed session of 1.98 (1.85; +7.0 percent) (13,400) vehicles during the same pe- over. million new cars. As a result, the riod, an increase of 42.7 percent. DeVolkswagen Group performed noticealiveries in the Asia / Pacific region rose bly better than the overall market, by 35.3 percent to 373,700 (276,200) which declined by 4.4 percent over the units. year. 548,000 (423,200) units were delivered in Central and Eastern EuŠKODA delivered 879,200 (762,600) rope, a year-on-year increase of 29.4 vehicles worldwide in the period from percent. The Group reported very January to December 2011, an inpleasing growth in Russia, where cus- crease of 15.3 percent. The brand tomers took possession of 229,000 made especially strong gains in China, (131,300; +74.4 percent) new vehicles. India and Russia. The Czech automakOn its home market of Germany, the er grew deliveries in particular in the Volkswagen Group grew deliveries for Central and Eastern Europe region, the full year 2011 by 11.4 percent, where 231,600 (194,800; +18.9 perhanding over 1.15 (1.03) million vehicent) units were delivered, and in the cles. Asia / Pacific region, where 256,100 (203,300; +26.0 percent) vehicles were Even before it has hit UK roads, the Group brands also report marked rise new Volkswagen up! has claimed top handed over to customers. in deliveries honours at the prestigious What Car? SEAT delivered 350,000 (339,500) awards, being named Car of the Year With a 13.1 percent increase in delivvehicles worldwide in 2011, represent- for 2012 as well as best City Car. Taking the Car of the Year title for the sixth time makes Volkswagen the most successful manufacturer at the What Car? awards since they began in 1978.
New Volkswagen up! Named What Car? Car of the Year 2012
It was a highly successful night for the manufacturer overall at the motor industry‟s annual „Oscars‟ held at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London, with the Golf returning as winner of the Small Family Car category for the sixth time overall and fourth consecutive year, and Volkswagen also taking the coveted Safety Award. Commenting on the awards, What Car? editor-in-chief Chas Hallett said: „The Volkswagen up! sets new standards for a car at £10,000. It‟s a city car (Continued on page 25)
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Dr Ulrich Hackenberg, Member of the Board of Management of the Volkswagen Brand with responsibility (Continued from page 24) for Development collected the award that can seat four adults, while offering and commented: „We are very grateful new levels of refinement, quality and for this award which recognises the maturity at this price; none of its rivals achievements and qualities of our new feels quite so grown-up. Buyers will be small car, the up!. We set out to design looking for even more for their money a car which would combine than ever in 2012, so the up! is a wor- Volkswagen values and maximum thy winner of the What Car? Car of the space in a distilled and compact packYear.‟ age; a car which embodies the pure essence of the brand. Once again, the What Car? editorial team found the evergreen Golf hard to „From its modern, clean and efficient fault, and summed up by saying: „The engines, through its class-leading Golf now has four wins in a row in our safety features to its innovative infoSmall Family Car category – proof that tainment system, it is a design which Volkswagen got the package just right. encapsulates modern urban mobility. This is a particularly demanding cate„Furthermore the up! is not a gory, but the Golf has all the right instandalone product, but the first child gredients: it‟s practical, comfortable in a new small car family. Groundand good to drive, holds its value well breaking Volkswagen models including and is economical. It‟s really all the car a fully-electric version, the up! Blue-emost people will ever need.‟ Motion which is due in 2013, will also Meanwhile the Safety Award was in join the family, and other Volkswagen large part the result of the availability Group brands will also benefit from its of Volkswagen‟s innovative City Emer- arrival. We are very excited about our gency Braking system on the up!. Alt- new car and are delighted that the inhough safety features are no longer fluential judges at What Car? magathe preserve of larger, more expensive zine clearly share our views on the models, the judges were impressed by up!.‟ this particular example of „big car‟ technology filtering down to a smaller model. The system uses sensors to scan the space ahead, then applies the brakes automatically if it detects that the car is about to hit an object in front. Hallett added: „It works well – particularly in town, the up!‟s natural environment – and the biggest achievement is that Volkswagen is offering the technology at a respectable price on its smallest model.‟
“2012 Yellow Angel”: Dual Victory for Volkswagen
Page 25 Coveted trophies for new development of the multicollision brake and for the economical Passat TSI EcoFuel January 20 in Munich, ADAC announced award winners of its “2012 Yellow Angel” competition. Volkswagen took two of the coveted top honours: in the category of “Innovations and environment” the Wolfsburg-based company was recognised for its development of the multicollision brake, while in the “Car of the future” category the Passat TSI EcoFuel impressed the experts. A jury of experts – made up of the ADAC executive board and the presidents of VDA, VDIK and ZDK – singled out the development of the multicollision brake as an outstanding innovation. On behalf of Volkswagen, Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg, member of the Board of Management of the Volkswagen Brand responsible for Development, accepted the “Yellow Angel” award in the “Innovation & Environment” category. The multicollision brake (MKB), which will be introduced in the next generation Golf, is a new and important system for integral safety. It initiates automatic braking after a collision to reduce accident severity and avoid any secondary collisions – entirely if possible. Various studies have shown that in just about one-quarter of all car accidents in Germany that involve loss of vehicle control by the driver and high kinetic energy, a secondary collision occurs with another vehicle, non-automotive traffic or the environment. At Volkswagen Research, the new system‟s effectiveness was verified in various crash studies that included impacts against crash barriers at a number of vehicle speeds and impact angles. The multicollision brake system is triggered by the airbag electronic control module, which detect an initial collision. The system evaluates data from such sources as accelerometers, pressure sensors in the doors, belt tensioners and/or the airbags in frontal, rear and side crashes. Detection of the crash by two independent sensors is required to trigger the MKB. The data is communicated to the ESP electronic control module, and the vehicle is braked at a predetermined decelera(Continued on page 26)
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tion rate to a minimum speed of 10 km/h. Nonetheless, the driver – if not incapacitated – can still override the system and take control of the vehicle, braking or accelerating during the accident event. Volkswagen also scored top honours in the “Car of the future” category, winning the prestigious ADAC trophy. The winning car was the Passat TSI EcoFuel, which has been setting new standards for natural gas powered cars since its market launch in 2009. Its bivalent 1.4 TSI engine with 110 kW can be powered with either natural gas or petrol, and it impresses with its low fuel consumption values and low CO2 emissions of 117 g/km. In explaining its award selection, ADAC praised the Passat TSI EcoFuel for its very high level of development with regard to everyday practicality, economy, environmental compatibility and safety.
VW Group Australia‟s Brand New Corporate Headquarters
The new state of the art facility incorporates all business divisions under one roof housing Volkswagen Passenger Vehicles, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, ŠKODA Australia, Bentley and Volkswagen Financial Services. The new facility was developed in anticipation of continued growth for all four brands in the Australian market. The development was embraced by the company‟s global Board of Directors in late 2007 in order to facilitate the growth plans for Volkswagen Group in Australia. The new corporate headquarters incorporates a large combined showroom and reception area, parts and accessories warehouse, workshop, training centre for dealer staff, office areas for all business divisions and a purpose-built café managed by Swiss Deli.
necessities that our previous offices and warehouse could not adequately provide,” said Anke Koeckler, Managing Director of Volkswagen Group Australia. “At Botany we simply ran out of space. We have been growing at a rapid pace in recent years and we have been increasing our staff number, while also growing our dealer network and parts and accessories business. “In 2011 alone we expanded our product range with 13 models and 2012 is also going to be a busy year. “We believe we have the right products for the Australian market to continue our growth plans. This new office at Chullora provides our staff and dealers with the best facilities to ensure our customers are receiving the best service possible,” said Ms Koeckler.
Volkswagen Group Australia has comThe Chullora site houses a 16,000 menced business at its purpose built “Our success here in Australia has square metres warehouse and 5,930 new corporate headquarters in Chulresulted in an increased need for staff, square metres office space. The worklora. space, technology and equipment – shop and training centre is 4,720 square metres and the new facility accommodates over 250 people. All areas of the facility have been designed to allow for future growth. The new location covers a total area of 51,000 square metres and is located within the Chullora Technology Park. The facility was designed by Commercial & Industrial Property in collaboration with the Group‟s corporate architects. The interior design of the office was undertaken by Davenport Campbell guided by the Group‟s corporate identity guidelines. The total investment in the new facility was over $40 million.
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