VW going hybrid?

According to this article, "…Automotive News reports that German automaker Volkswagen AG may be considering a hybrid-version of its popular Jetta car. 'A VW spokesman confirmed that VW is considering a so-called mild hybrid vehicle…' reports Automotive News. "

Historically, VW has touted diesels which also improve fuel economy, but complicate the near term emissions issues over hybrids, so this is interesting news… who knows, maybe it will be a diesel hybrid with really high fuel economy.

In any case, this is something to keep an eye on.  If the skeptics are coming around, it may mean and even brighter future for hybrids.  But we will keep our eyes and ears open… as we know from GM's hollow hybrids, just because an automaker calls it a "mild hybrid" does not make it so.

In related news, VW's partner in high-powered sport-wagons, Porsche, may soon provide details on their planned hybrid version of the Cayenne.  So if you want to buy a hybrid that will likely beat the Lexus 400h from 0-60 mph, this may be your bet (as long as you have a fat pocketbook)… something tells me this vehicle may define "muscle hybrid."

Posted by: DJF