Volkswagen C Coupe GTE Concept debuts in Shanghai

Volkswagen has unveiled the C Coupe GTE concept at the Shanghai Motor Show. This latest concept previews the future design of VW’s large sedans, like the next-generation Phaeton with its horizontal lines, creases and coupe-like profile.

VW_C_Coupe_GTE_Concept

Volkswagen has unveiled the C Coupe GTE concept at the Shanghai Motor Show. This latest concept previews the future design of VW’s large sedans, like the next-generation Phaeton with its horizontal lines, creases and coupe-like profile.
VW_C_Coupe_GTE_Concept

At five meters long, the C Coupe concept, if it were produced would slot in between the Passat and Phaeton in VW’s lineup. The concept is slightly longer than the current CC and just like the CC, VW is calling the C Coupe concept a “coupe” rather than a sedan. Why? Walter de Silva, Head of Design of the Volkswagen Group, says: “Sedans have changed hugely in recent years. The new rear-end design that is oriented to the classic two-door ‘coupĂ©’ has given them more personality. The Volkswagen designers have integrated this stylistic element into the very dynamic design of the C CoupĂ© GTE saloon.”

VW_C_Coupe_GTE_Concept

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Inside, the C Coupe concept’s dash and interior layout have been designed with a driver-centric focus, while the rear has a lounge-like ambience. The infotainment concept also follows this theme with a chauffeur mode where information about the owner’s appointments can be transferred via a smartphone to the infotainment system. This means that the chauffeur has a chronological list of appointments specially tailored to his tasks and is able to provide the owner with further information upon reaching the destination–for example, the exact location of the appointment.

VW_C_Coupe_GTE_Concept

The C Coupe GTE is powered by a plug-in hybrid powertrain that mates a turbocharged four-cylinder to an 8-speed automatic transmission and an electric motor that is integrated in the transmission. The system generates a total 241 horsepower and 369 lb-ft. of torque. The C Coupe GTE can reach 62 mph in 8.6 seconds, while its 14.1-kWh lithium-ion battery has enough power to let the concept travel up to 31 miles in electric mode.

VW_C_Coupe_GTE_Concept

Source: Volkswagen