Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Unveils eHybrid 4MOTION: New Plug-in Hybrid All-Wheel Drive Transforms Multivan and California
Key Insights
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has introduced the new eHybrid 4MOTION plug-in hybrid all-wheel drive system for its Multivan and California models.
This innovative system combines electric driving capability with robust all-wheel drive and long-distance suitability, addressing a critical market gap for versatile vans and camper vans.
The eHybrid 4MOTION features a 19.7 kWh battery, enabling up to 95 kilometers of electric range, and includes standard electric stationary air conditioning for enhanced comfort and efficiency.
The intelligent power distribution and autonomous electric rear axle control provide superior traction and dynamic performance, setting a new standard for multi-purpose vehicle powertrains.
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has unveiled its latest powertrain innovation, the eHybrid 4MOTION, a new plug-in hybrid all-wheel drive system designed for the Multivan and California lineups. This development addresses a long-standing market demand for a single drive system capable of delivering electric mobility, extended range, and superior traction without compromising technical features or driving dynamics. The system integrates two electric drive motors with a newly engineered 1.5 TSI evo2 petrol engine, offering a versatile solution for a wide array of applications.
The eHybrid 4MOTION system provides a combined output of 180 kW (245 PS), succeeding the previous 160 kW (218 PS) front-wheel drive PHEV introduced in 2021. The new architecture features an 85 kW (110 PS) front electric motor and a 100 kW (136 PS) rear electric motor, coupled with a 130 kW (177 PS) 1.5 TSI engine. This configuration allows the vehicles to operate in purely electric mode for up to 95 kilometers, supported by a 19.7 kWh battery, aligning with data from the German Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport indicating that 95 percent of all vehicle journeys are shorter than 50 kilometers. Electric driving is possible up to 130 km/h, with the full hybrid system extending speeds to 200 km/h.
A key innovation for the Multivan and California eHybrid 4MOTION is the standard electric stationary air conditioning. This feature enables cooling, ventilation, and heating while charging, parking, or camping, utilizing the high-voltage battery or an external power supply. Unlike conventional auxiliary heaters, it operates emission-free, enhancing comfort and preserving electric range by pre-conditioning the cabin. For California camper vans, an optional continuous heating function is available, operable via the camper van operating unit.
The all-wheel drive functionality is managed via Electronic Stability Control (ESC), allowing variable power distribution with up to 100 percent of drive force directed to either axle. The electric rear-wheel drive remains available even with a depleted battery, as power is generated by the TSI engine and the front electric motor acting as a generator. This autonomous electric rear axle control offers enhanced power, traction, and dynamic torque management compared to traditional mechanical AWD systems, particularly beneficial on unpaved surfaces or in adverse weather conditions. WLTP consumption values with a discharged battery range between 7.5 and 8.1 l/100 km, with real-world figures potentially lower due to effective energy recuperation.