Volkswagen’s CrossBlue Coupe concept is being marketed as a “plug-in hybrid.” The vehicle can run as a purely electric vehicle, but will only go about 13 miles before running out of juice. Image: Volkswagen
Wednesday, Volkswagen will show off a concept for an SUV that could be built in Tennessee. It’s one of many vehicles on display at the Los Angeles Auto Show.
Volkswagen unveiled the CrossBlue Coupe in Shanghai earlier this year. The German automaker talked up the SUV as a high performance vehicle that can go from 0 to 60 in less than six seconds. VW board member Ulrich Hackenberg says it’s really a V-6 plug-in hybrid.
“Actually, we should really be talking about an SUV sports car here. So, this SUV would be an ideal vehicle for commuters who simply want to switch over to electric drive when entering the city area.”
The CrossBlue Coupe can run solely on battery power…but only goes about 13 miles. Volkswagen will announce by the end of year whether it will build hybrid model or a more traditional SUV. That’s also when VW will say if the vehicle will be made in Chattanooga. Meanwhile, Franklin-based Nissan will also be showing off new models at the LA Auto Show…including a 600-horse power sports car:
Nissan’s GT-R Nismo was unveiled in Tokyo earlier this week. The Japanese automaker is also unveiling two other high-performance models, including a sportier version of its Juke crossover. Image: Nissan North America.
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