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VW Phaeton goes out of production, Transparent Factory to become electromobility showcase
The last Volkswagen Phaeton has rolled off the assembly line at the company's Transparent Factory in Dresden. The final model was a black Phaeton 4MOTION which was equipped with a 4.2-liter V8 engine that produces 335 horsepower. The fate of the car remains unclear but the Phaeton was originally introduced 14 years ago to help the brand move upmarket. The model failed to catch on with consumers and it was quickly yanked from the United States lineup.
Volkswagen Group of America CEO Michael Horn resigns
The Dieselgate scandal has apparently claimed another victim as Volkswagen has announced the departure of Volkswagen Group of America President and CEO Michael Horn. In a statement released minutes ago, Volkswagen AG said the departure was a result of a "mutual agreement." The company declined to elaborate but noted Horn will be leaving effective immediately. Horn will be replaced by Hinrich J. Woebcken who will serve as Volkswagen Group of America President and CEO on an interim basis. Woebcken's name might not sound familiar but he has been serving as the Chairman of Volkswagen Group of America.
VW Amarok V8 Passion Desert Edition unveiled, costs $217k
The Geneva Motor Show kicks off next week and MTM has announced plans to unveil its new Volkswagen Amarok V8 Desert Edition at the annual event. Jointly developed with DIRKS, the model features a two-tone exterior with a front brush guard, extended fender flares, and 20-inch BBS alloy wheels that are wrapped in Cooper off-road tires. The truck has also been equipped with side steps, a roll cage, and blacked out badging. The rugged exterior gives way to an upscale cabin that is covered in leather and Alcantara upholstery. The tuning firm has also installed carbon fiber trim, auxiliary gauges, and an infotainment system with GPS navigation system and a television function.
VW XL3 reportedly coming in 2018
Volkswagen introduced the XL1 nearly three years ago and a new report is indicating the company is developing a more affordable XL3. Designed to showcase the company's focus on eco-friendly vehicles following the Dieselgate scandal, the XL3 will reportedly have unique styling that is inspired by the XL1. Details are limited at this point but Autobild is reporting the model will have an aerodynamic design with blue trim and C-shaped daytime running lights.
Ousted VW CEO warned about emissions cheating in 2014
Volkswagen has blamed the Dieselgate scandal on handful of rogue engineers but internal memos and e-mails are suggesting executives knew about defeat devices well before the company officially acknowledged them. According to documents reviewed by The New York Times, former Volkswagen CEO Martin Winterkorn was warned that government regulators might accuse the company of using defeat devices in May of 2014. Winterkorn has previously said he only learned about the existence of defeat devices shortly before the scandal erupted and this memo seems to contradict his statement.
