Apart from the fully electric propulsion systems it’s currently developing, Volkswagen focuses on providing conventional powertrains that use alternative fuels. One such engine is used on the Golf TGI, which is powered by compressed natural gas. By Vlad Varu
Alternative fuels are nothing new but out of the available options, compressed natural gas (CNG) has seen the biggest rise in popularity. Especially since in most parts of the world it is cheaper than gasoline or diesel and produces less harmful exhaust gasses than conventional fuels.
In Europe, there are over a million vehicles that are powered by CNG or LNG, thanks in large part to a vast network of fueling stations that offer these types of fuels.
Recognizing that, Volkswagen offers European clients a new 1.5-liter engine for the Golf VIII that is connected to three natural gas fuel tanks, able to power the vehicle in pure natural gas mode for a range of around 400 kilometers (249 miles).
The total capacity of the tanks that are integrated into the underbody is currently 115 liters, and a 9-liter gas tank is also available as backup, in case the CNG runs out.
The 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine works by using the revolutionary Miller cycle, a combustion process that results in low carbon emissions due to its high efficiency and a compression ratio of 12.5:1.