The Volkswagen Passat...
The Volkswagen Passat will take part in the Urban Challenge, a 60-mile contest for driverless vehicles which involves them merging with traffic, negotiating roundabouts, avoiding other motorists and abiding by road laws. Computers control the steering, throttle and brakes, and scientists are now adding lasers, GPS sat-nav and video cameras so the car can ‘see’ the road. Two years ago, VW entered a Touareg SUV in a similar contest in the desert, but the Passat will have a tougher job.
The five-door city car...
The five-door city car has a rear-mounted 660cc turbo which it shares with the forthcoming Smart ForTwo. Despite its small dimensions, there is room inside for four. Prices and specifications will be revealed in January, and first deliveries are expected in June.
The award-winning "i" has the engine mounted forward of the rear axle, called ‘ rear-midship layout’ in Mitsubishi terminology, and it’s claimed it allows a more flexible and safe design.