Production of the Volkswagen Beetle is set to end in 2019.1 From a wartime symbol to an icon of 1960s hippie culture, to its reintroduction in the late 1990s, the Beetle has held strong. Through 2010, 1.2 million New Beetles were sold, according to The New York Times,2 while an estimated 21 million units were built since the Beetle’s introduction.3 There is now limited time to secure a new Beetle from our Downingtown, PA, Volkswagen dealership.
History of the VW Beetle
The original Beetle had a 25 hp rear-mounted engine and a top speed of 62 mph. First known simply as the “Type 1,” it was designed by Ferdinand Porsche and commissioned as the “people’s car” in 1938 Germany. By 1951, the vehicle was available in 29 countries. It would acquire the name “Ladybug” in France and simply the “Bug” in the U.S.
The popularity of the Volkswagen Bug in the 1960s had less-dark associations than its origins. It was essentially a symbol of the 1960’s counterculture and was the nation’s best-selling import at the time. Painfully slow and equipped with an ineffective heating system, the Beetle was less popular by the 1970s. Strict pollution standards were affecting its viability as well. Volkswagen stopped producing it in Germany by 1978.
However, finding a VW Beetle for sale became possible again, in 1997, when the company introduced the New Beetle. Although intended to deliver nostalgia, it was built on the Volkswagen Golf platform. Sales declined after news that VW used illegal software to deceive regulators about diesel emissions.
A variation appeared in 2012, but sales have steadily declined since 2013. Volkswagen announced the final models, the Final Edition SE and Final Edition SEL, in 2018 as convertibles.
The VW Beetle in Pop Culture
Since its initial release, the Beetle was always instantly identifiable. Its presence in 1960s American culture was aided by its role in the 1968 movie The Love Bug. The vehicle is survived by other popular VW cars, the Golf, and the Tiguan SUV. That’s after many years of accolades, which include Motor Trend’s “Import Car of the Year” in 1999 and a car of the century competition that named it in fourth place after the Ford Model T, Mini, and Citroën DS19.
The Beetle’s Impact on VW’s Popularity
The Beetle Bug has been produced in 23 exterior colors, 32 interior trims, and 13 engine configurations over the years.4 It is one of the company’s most recognizable models. In fact, the Beetle’s success contributed to the establishment of Volkswagen, Europe’s largest carmaker. With popular models such as the Atlas, Golf GTI, Jetta, Passat, and Tiguan, it certainly won’t be its last.
Buy a Used VW Beetle at Your Local Volkswagen Dealer Today
If you’re interested in a used Volkswagen Beetle, go to Jeff D’Ambrosio Volkswagen in Downingtown, PA. New and used vehicles are available, while all pre-owned cars are multi-point inspected to ensure they’re showroom-ready before being put on our lot. We have an on-site parts and service department, financing options, and exceptional customer service. Call us today at 888-585-7794 to speak with a sales representative and test drive a VW Beetle for sale today.
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Tips on Caring for Your VW This Fall
Whether you own a Volkswagen Tiguan, Jetta, Golf, Touareg, or Passat, the fall is a good time to tend to various maintenance tasks. Falling behind on car maintenance can lead to significant and expensive consequences later. It’s one of the most important aspects of caring for your vehicle.
Your maintenance checklist this fall should address the following:
- Tires: Check the tire pressure as the temperature changes; the pressure drops as temperatures fall. Adjust it to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI. Also, replace tires if the treads are 1/8-inch deep or less, and look for bulges, bald spots, and other signs of wear and tear.
- Brakes: Have a professional inspect the brakes as part of your maintenance schedule. They can road test the vehicle, feeling for brake issues, and conduct a visual inspection, check brake fluids, and inspect the brake pads, calipers, and master cylinder.
- Wipers: Wipers typically only last 6-12 months, but if they’re leaving streaks on your windshield, replace them immediately. You can also try cleaning wipers with a paper towel and glass cleaner, which can add weeks to months to their life.
- Heater/Defroster: Fall is a great time to check the heating, venting, and cooling system of your VW Tiguan. It’s needed for heat and comfort on cold days and to improve visibility. Morning frosts may already be impacting your area, so the sooner you service this system, the better.
- Cooling System: The cooling system is important to consider; it remains active even in cold weather. Have a mechanic check the radiator, belts, and hoses. Cold air can affect these parts and, if they’re already deteriorating, replacing them now can help avoid some hassles this winter.
- Fluids: Check all fluid levels, including transmission fluid, washer fluid, and oil. Motor oil thickens over time, and cold temperatures can thicken it too. Service your vehicle if it’s due for an oil change. Also, consider an oil that’s most suited for winter weather so your vehicle performs its best.
- Lights: Darkness and visibility are concerns during the colder months. Check your headlights, taillights, brake lights, hi-beams, and fog lights to ensure they’re working. Also inspect the lenses for cloudiness, dirt, or obstructions.
- Battery: A car battery loses strength over time, so have it checked by a mechanic. Battery cables and terminals should be checked and retightened as necessary. Connections that are dirty or corroded should be disconnected and cleaned with the appropriate tools.
- Wash and Wax: Fall is a good time for a thorough cleaning. Residue from tree sap, dead bugs, and bird droppings tends to build up over the summer, and winter will soon leave its own mess. Give your car a thorough washdown and even apply wax so it looks in top shape.
Whether you’re looking for a 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan or to save on a used Volkswagen Tiguan or another model, Jeff D’Ambrosio Volkswagen in Downingtown, Pennsylvania can help. Learn more about our service center, specials, and financing by visiting our dealership or calling 888-585-7794.
The 2020 VW Bus: What & When to Expect
The VW Bus debuted in the late 1940s and remained in production until 2014. Several generations were introduced during that time, including The Splitty, The Bay, the T2b and T2c, and the Type 2. What was a relic of the past has been reborn—you will soon find the 2020 version of the Bus at a VW dealer near you.
Throughout its history, the VW Bus has been used in many ways. The Bay Camper Bus, introduced in 1975, often served as a camper or mobile home. Volkswagen’s Microbus has also influenced American culture, from its beachside popularity and surfboards loaded on the roof to being an icon of the hippie movement in the late 1960s. It was featured in the Cars movie in 2006 and has been a mainstay of the Scooby-Doo cartoon series over many years.
It’s no longer available new at a Volkswagen dealership … but that may soon change.
How Is the New VW Bus Improved over Past Generations?
Despite its popularity, the VW Microbus had its drawbacks. One was the limited power of its engine; the first models could deliver just 25 hp, and when this was increased to 40 hp, the vehicle was still painfully slow. Even in the 1950s, it was not nearly as powerful as a sedan. At higher speeds and during cornering, rollovers were possible, in part due to a short wheelbase and narrow track width.
Not only does the concept Microbus, I.D. Buzz, eliminate many of the previous challenges (it delivers 369 hp and packs electric motors for each axle), but it sports some of the latest technologies. It includes:
- A fast-charging battery: The 111-kWh battery pack can recharge up to 80% of its full capacity in 30 minutes while using just 150 kW of electricity.
- A high estimated range: The Microbus you may soon get from a VW car dealer can go an estimated 300 miles on a single charge, which is generous among EVs.
- Ample space: Built on the MEB platform, the Microbus is spacious and accommodates three rows of seats, which can be folded down, spun around, or removed to increase cargo capacity.
On the outside, the Microbus mimics the same boxy shape, rectangular windows, and two-tone V-nose as the original. But its LED headlights are designed with hexagonal segments that help communicate vehicle status. Other modern touchups include 22-inch wheels and near-zero body overhangs. On the inside, similarities to its predecessors are few and the bus is a demonstration of autonomous technology that VW will continue to develop. There are pop-up laser scanners in the roof and a fold-away steering wheel. Combined with a heads-up display, the Microbus is more futuristic than a relic of the past.1
Visit Jeff D’Ambrosio Volkswagen in Downingtown, PA
The electric VW Bus is slated to be out in 2022, at a starting price of $70,000.2 However, you can find the latest models and used vehicles at a leading VW dealer in Pennsylvania today. Learn more about low-cost, low-mileage, and multipoint inspected used vehicles, as well as our service department, specials, and financing options by visiting us or calling 888-585-7794.
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Popular Mechanics has named the 2019 Volkswagen GTI Hatchback of the Year. What does this mean to Volkswagen enthusiasts and those who are looking for the perfect hatchback at our Volkswagen dealership? Announced annually, Popular Mechanics’ Automotive Excellence Awards consist of numerous categories, including Car of the Year, Crossover of the Year, Truck of the Year, and others that recognize specific achievements.
About Popular Mechanics
Covering popular science and technology, Popular Mechanics was founded in 1902 and covers a range of topics. Aside from automotive themes, it covers electronics, home, do-it-yourself, aviation, transportation, and military topics, along with space technology, tools, and gadgets. Founder Henry Haven Windsor intended the publication to explain complex concepts in plain language with photos and illustrations. Today, it is in PSA Research’s Top 100 U.S. Magazines by Circulation.1
How Are Automotive Excellence Awards Winners Determined?
Popular Mechanics recognizes top automobiles with key points for each. For the 2019 VW Golf GTI, it noted three reasons for awarding the hatchback, including:
- Price: At a starting price of $28,490, the VW Golf GTI is above average in cost for its class, but highly rated for its acceleration, comfortable interior, and handling.2
- Power: With premium fuel, the Golf GTI’s engine delivers 228 hp and 258 ft-lb of torque. Its average fuel efficiency was 27.12 mpg, based on data from fuelly.com.3
- Popular Mechanics’ preference: In its award announcement, the publication recommended the Golf GTI with a manual transmission and plaid cloth interior.
Other Awards
The Golf GTI also won another notable award this year—the Top Safety Pick award by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. It has earned top marks in crash tests, including “Good” ratings for just about every test. For the passenger-side small overlap front test, an “acceptable” rating was given. Also noted for the vehicle were its forward-collision warning system and the optional automatic emergency braking system.
Safety Features
Although not standard, a full set of driver-assistance features is available. The VW Golf GTI now can be equipped with:
- Forward-Collision Warning with Autonomous Emergency Braking: Sensors in front of the vehicle monitor traffic. If a collision is likely, the vehicle can alert you with an audible and visual warning. The vehicle can apply the brakes automatically or add braking power to reduce an impact or avoid a collision
- Lane-Departure Warning with Lane-Keeping Assist: A forward-facing camera, mounted inside the rear-view mirror, tracks lane markings and can detect lane drifting when the turn signal isn’t activated. The system can counter-steer the vehicle, gently nudging it toward the center of the lane.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: If you’re using cruise control, this system helps maintain a safe distance from vehicles in front. It can adjust your speed automatically, using feedback from in-vehicle sensors, whether the car ahead slows down or accelerates.
Get the New Golf GTI from Your Premier Pennsylvania VW Dealership
Jeff D’Ambrosio Volkswagen has the 2019 VW Golf GTI so you can explore the vehicle, take a test drive, or trade in your ride for a great price. Specials are now available on some of our newest models. Visit our VW dealership today or call 888-585-7794 to schedule an appointment.
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Volkswagen’s Plans for 2020 & the Future
As the automotive industry undergoes a radical transformation, Volkswagen has embraced the latest technologies, including digitization, driver’s assistance features, electric cars, and autonomous driving. You’ll find a number of new technologies in the latest inventory at your local VW dealership. Here is a look at what the automotive giant has in store for 2020 and beyond.
Updated Models
Two innovative models are set to be released for the 2020 model year:
- 2020 Volkswagen Passat: Its coupe-like exterior with LED headlights/taillights and 17-inch wheels may impress, but the Passat now has even more to offer. Most trims now have 207 ft-lb of torque. The Passat retains many of its comfort features and includes technologies such as an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and satellite radio capability, as well as forward collision warning, rear-cross traffic alert, and other driver assistance technologies.
- 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan: Although it hasn’t been fully redesigned, the Tiguan now has a full range of standard driver-assistance features. In-car Wi-Fi is available, and the infotainment system has been improved. The Tiguan SE R-Line Black now has safety features such as front and rear Park Distance Control, plus a panoramic sunroof and black aluminum-alloy wheels. The Tiguan also has a heated steering wheel, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Electric Car Plans
Future new vehicles from Volkswagen are likely to enter the electric vehicle market. A couple of possibilities you might find at a VW car dealership in the coming years include:
• ID.4 Electric Crossover: The ID CROZZ has been described as a sporty zero-emission vehicle. It includes an electric 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system and two motors: one electric motor for the front axle and one for the rear axle. Outputting 225 kW, the SUV can reach nearly 112 mph with a range of over 300 miles. The company also claims this new VW’s battery can be charged to 80% capacity in 30 minutes.1
• I.D. Buzz Concept: Volkswagen plans to release a production version of the Microbus, an award-winning concept electric vehicle, by 2022. It will be available in the United States, Europe, and China. Using the Modular Electric Drive kit, it has a 369 hp electric motor on each axle, all-wheel drive, and an estimated range of 300 miles. It, too, will have a fast-charging battery, along with a preview of autonomous technology with a fold-away steering wheel, pop-up laser scanners, and heads-up display.2
Technology
You can already find a new Volkswagen with a next-generation connectivity system, Wi-Fi, wireless device charging, and more. Safety features—such as forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, rear traffic alert systems, adaptive cruise control, and more—are included. Volkswagen is also working on advanced features such as Remote Parking, allowing the car to park itself via prompts from a remote control or smartphone app, and Gesture Control that will let drivers operate features such as a sunroof just by moving their hand.
Find the Latest Models at Your Local VW Car Dealership
Jeff D’Ambrosio Volkswagen is a Downingtown, PA, VW dealership where you can find the latest new Volkswagen cars and low-mileage, well-maintained used models. Learn more about our inventory, specials, and financing by visiting us in person or calling our sales team at 888-585-7794.
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Two of the world’s great automakers, Volkswagen and Ford, have collaborated to form a global alliance to provide a competitive, cost-efficient, and practical solution for electric and autonomous vehicles. The two companies announced a joint venture on new commercial vehicles in January 2019, not yet available at our Volkswagen dealership. In July, they announced an expansion of this collaboration. Currently, the project includes investments in:
Argo AI
Volkswagen has already committed to investing $2.6 billion in Argo AI.1 A subsidiary of Audi AG, this Autonomous Intelligent Driving company has received a total valuation from VW and Ford of over $7 billion.2 Argo’s self-driving system will, in turn, become available for both automakers to integrate into their vehicles. It is being developed for use in commercial VW and Ford vehicles with the intent of reducing automotive crash-related injuries and fatalities on U.S. roads.
Electric Vehicles
Ford is also using its partnership with Volkswagen to design a new electric vehicle architecture. The MEB, or modular electric drive matrix platform, is planned for a 2023 release in 600,000 vehicles.3 The architecture will deliver more advanced driver-assistance technologies. It will soon be featured on new battery electric vehicles, consolidating electronics and reducing the number of microprocessors required.
Pickups
In early 2019, Ford and Volkswagen announced a plan to produce midsize pickup trucks. The first truck may be available by 2022, while Ford is currently developing a successor to the VW Amarok.4 Volkswagen has hinted at introducing it in the U.S. or putting a midsize Tanoak or Tarok concept pickup on the market. The two companies have partnered to soon introduce an Amarok in Europe, South America, Africa, the Middle East, and the Asia Pacific regions.
Commercial Vans
On the other hand, Ford announced plans to build larger commercial vans, for the 2022 model year, for both companies. This includes a city van for the European market and other select markets around the world. Both organizations anticipate a growth in demand for medium pickups and commercial vans and, therefore, a greater reach for new innovations and technological advancements that can make commercial vans more productive and safer.
EV Production Is Expected to Increase
By July 2019, Volkswagen had put $10 billion into electric vehicle development, with plans to produce 15 to 22 million battery-electric vehicles and introduce 50 different models by 2025. Planning to spend $11 billion on its electric vehicle program by 2022, Ford is developing its first long-range BEV and various all-electric and plug-in hybrids. It is also involved with another partnership, with battery-electric vehicle start-up Rivian, which involves a $500 million investment.5
Find New and Used Models at Our VW Dealership
Jeff D’Ambrosio Volkswagen in Downingtown is one of the most trusted VW dealers in PA. We offer a huge lineup of new and used certified pre-owned vehicles, specialize in high-quality customer service, and have an on-site parts and service center. To find the perfect vehicle for you or to take a test drive, call our sales team at 888-585-7794 or visit our Volkswagen dealership at 1225 East Lancaster Avenue today.
Sources:
- https://www.cnbc.com/2019/07/12/ford-vw-confirm-plan-to-collaborate-on-autonomous-electric-vehicles.html
- https://media.ford.com/content/fordmedia/fna/us/en/news/2019/07/12/ford-vw.html
- https://media.ford.com/content/fordmedia/fna/us/en/news/2019/07/12/ford-vw.html
- https://www.motortrend.com/news/ford-vw-partnership-heres-expect/
- https://www.cnbc.com/2019/07/12/ford-vw-confirm-plan-to-collaborate-on-autonomous-electric-vehicles.html
5 Techy Tiguan Features Anyone Can Use
The Volkswagen Tiguan is an SUV loaded with technology. When you visit our VW dealership, you can find a Volkswagen SUV that combines the latest automotive technology with classic styling. You will find advanced tech features such as:
1. Personalized Digital Display
The VW Tiguan has traded a traditional instrument cluster for the high-resolution Volkswagen Digital Cockpit. See the typical vehicle stats and store up to four driver profiles. In Wide Map Navigation View, your location is visible without moving your head. Adjust the size of the map at any time and never get lost again.
2. Driver Assistance Features
Available features include Pedestrian Monitoring (part of the Front Assist system) that alerts you if pedestrians are passing in front of your vehicle. If you don’t respond to the warning, it can activate the brakes automatically to prevent a collision. The Blind Spot Monitor, in vehicles equipped with Lane Assist, can help keep the SUV in a lane by counter steering. With the Overhead View Camera, you can see what’s around you from inside the vehicle.
3. Panoramic Sunroof with Rain Notification
The VW Car-Net app will notify you if the sunroof was left open and rain is on the way. You can then return to the car to close the sunroof and keep your SUV dry. The mobile app will also notify you if the doors are left unlocked, a door is ajar, or the trunk isn’t closed properly. Even use Parking Information to find a parking spot near your destination.
4. App-Connect
The focus of many Tiguan reviews, App-Connect enables you to plug in your smartphone and view select apps on the touchscreen display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are supported. You can, therefore, access your playlist and enjoy the quality of the Fender® Premium Audio System with nine speakers and a 480-watt amp. With such superior acoustics, you’ll want to take more road trips, especially with seating for up to seven people and an available full-power-adjustable driver’s seat.
5. Hands-Free Liftgate
All 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan configurations come with an Easy Open and Easy Close Liftgate. You don’t even need to reach for the key. Just move your foot under the rear bumper. The liftgate will unlock and open, which is great if you’re carrying groceries. It will automatically close when you walk away. You can also open the liftgate remotely by pressing the key from a distance.
Visit Jeff D’Ambrosio Volkswagen Today
Whether you’re looking to buy a new car, obtain a VW Tiguan lease, or purchase a used model, Jeff D’Ambrosio Volkswagen can help. Our dealership is conveniently located in Downingtown, Pennsylvania. We sell new and used vehicles, including the latest 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0T SE or 2.0T SEL, or you can opt for a Volkswagen Tiguan 2018 at a lower price.
Learn more about our financing options, on-site parts and service department, and newest vehicles by calling our sales team at 888-585-7794 or visiting our dealership at 1225 East Lancaster Avenue, today.
The Volkswagen Jetta was introduced in 1979. If you’re looking for a Volkswagen Jetta for sale, there have been at least seven generations, and it offers everything a compact four-door sedan can. Here are some fun facts about the 2019 Volkswagen Jetta.
- It Evolved from the Volkswagen Golf
As the small sedan market in the U.S. grew in the late 1970s, Volkswagen decided to expand its options beyond the hatchback Golf, adding a trunk to the design. It was offered as a four-door sedan and a coupe. Using the same platform enabled VW to quickly and easily address demand.
- The Jetta Wasn’t Always Called by Its Namesake
The third generation, introduced in 1992, dropped the familiar name; in Europe, it was called the Volkswagen Vento, which translates to “wind” in Italian and Portuguese. The name Jetta was kept in North America. In much of the world, fourth-generation models were known as the Volkswagen Bora. A Bora station wagon was introduced at the 2001 Los Angeles Auto Show.
- The Car Was Named After the Wind
VW has a long history of naming cars after trade winds and ocean currents. Some examples include the Passat and Scirocco. The Jetta has received 10 different names across different markets. Other names include the Atlantic, Fox, Voyage, and Clasico. Some speculate the origin of the name is derived from the jet stream that crosses the Atlantic Ocean.
- VW Once Had a Street-Legal Race Car
The Jetta TDI Cup was a modified sedan sold between 2008 and 2010. This street-legal racing vehicle featured a sporty body and diesel engine and targeted younger drivers with an affordable option to get a taste for the sport of racing. A commemorative version, the Jetta JDI Cup Edition, was later released.
- The Jetta Is Extremely Efficient
The VW Jetta can achieve 40 mpg highway. It also has a 6-speed transmission for seamless acceleration and gear shifting. The standard 1.4-liter turbocharged engine can reach 184 lb-ft of torque and provides 147 horsepower. All trim levels offer the same level of efficiency, including the 2019 Volkswagen Jetta S, R-Line, and SE.
- The Jetta Car Is Packed with Technology
Compatible with Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay™, it also features a VW Car-Net® App Connect from which select apps can be viewed on a smartphone. With VW Car-Net Security & Service, you can find where you parked and whether you locked the door, and you can even call for help. Music streaming is supported, and excellent sound clarity is delivered by an available Fender® Premium Audio System.
- Customizable Lighting
The 2019 Jetta is the first Volkswagen to offer 10 colors of customizable interior ambient lighting. This feature lets you change the mood of the cabin. Lighting strips can be found on the dash, interior door panels, and center console.
Find a Volkswagen Jetta for Sale at Jeff D’Ambrosio Volkswagen
At our Downingtown, PA dealership, you’ll find used and new models, including the latest 2019 Volkswagen Jetta SE, S, and R-Line, as well as exclusive parts and service. Check out our newest vehicles now. To contact our sales department, call 888-585-7794, or fill out our contact form to learn more
7 Common Mistakes New Car Owners Make
Properly caring for your new VW can help it last longer. You can also maintain peak performance of your new Volkswagen and prevent costly repairs by avoiding the following seven common mistakes:
1. Not Understanding the Dashboard/Buttons
From the start, you should take the time to understand what all the lights on your dashboard mean. The symbols can relay valuable information about the engine, brakes, and operating temperature. Acting as soon as you see a warning light can save you money later.
2. Neglecting Replacements
It’s important to replace worn parts, especially windshield wiper blades. A worn pair can not only impair visibility but damage the windshield. Replacing wiper blades every six months can avoid replacing the glass. The same goes for the tires; check your tire pressure regularly, particularly when there’s a 10°F or greater temperature change and replace tires when the treads are 2/32” deep or less.
3. Waiting for an Oil Change
Without an oil change, dirt and grime can get into the engine and cause major damage. Changing the oil helps lubricate the engine and keeps it clean. You can check oil levels using the dipstick under the hood. While an oil change every 3,000 miles is no longer necessary, you should consider checking the oil every 5,000 miles or so and follow manufacturers’ recommendations.
4. Too Many Road Trips
Overuse can harm a motor vehicle, even if you buy a Volkswagen car new. Shorter road trips can be the hardest. A brief ride to the grocery store doesn’t give the engine proper time to warm up. This can cause oil, gasoline, and water to thicken inside the engine block, rather than burn off as fumes.
5. Not Cleaning Your Car Regularly
Keeping your car clean isn’t just for aesthetics. By washing it regularly, you can get rid of contaminants that can cause corrosion and damage to vital parts. You can wash it down with soapy water and a sponge, but your local car wash can get this done faster.
6. Putting the Car in Drive Right After Starting it
Driving immediately after starting the car is not good for the engine. It takes about 10 to 15 seconds for the oil to circulate and reach important components. For older cars, this takes even longer, and oil is thicker in cold weather, so you’ll need to give the vehicle more time (up to 30 seconds) to warm up.
7. Putting in the Wrong Kind of Gas
Some drivers add premium gas to improve performance and fuel economy. This is just a myth. Filling up with premium won’t have any benefit unless you enjoy spending more money than necessary. Octane is just a measure of how readily gasoline ignites. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on what fuel grade to use.
Located in Downingtown, PA, Jeff D’Ambrosio Volkswagen has the latest models on its lot, whether you’re seeking a 2019 VW, an upcoming 2020 Volkswagen, or a low-mileage used vehicle. Our service department can help maintain your vehicle. Call 888-585-7794 now or visit our dealership today to learn about available models, specials, and financing.
What the Future Looks Like in the Auto Industry
The Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, and other disruptive innovations have taken hold of the automotive industry. Current functional and manufacturing trends are sure to continue having an impact by 2020 and beyond. Whether you choose a new Volkswagen SUV or any other popular automotive brand, here are a few trends to look out for:
Automotive Industry Trends of 2020
Several future trends in the automotive industry can already be seen. Electric/hybrid vehicles are rapidly gaining popularity. Industry leaders believe electric vehicles will represent 10% of new vehicle sales by 2025, while hybrids will account for 40% of the market share.1
However, the auto industry isn’t only being reshaped by in-car technology. New business models may include a global methodology that expands the global reach of companies, helping them adapt to local regulations and requirements. With the introduction of automation systems, such as autonomously guided vehicles, fewer human roles will be needed on the shop floor and assembly line. However, the need for data and software engineers will increase, as plants in the car industry become more digital.
What’s Happening Now
Volkswagen has already invested in the future. Thus, if you purchase a new VW SUV in the not-too-distant future, some of these innovative methodologies may be in play:
- A Self-Learning Factory: Automated systems are leveraging artificial intelligence at Glaserne Manufaktur in Dresden, Germany. Self-learning robots that can imitate body movement are already in use and learning complex tasks with the aid of machine-learning programs.
- Use of Blockchain Models: Cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin are gaining potential as blockchain systems are applied to automotive innovations in logistics, as well as those related to the security of self-driving vehicles, vehicle maintenance, and tamper-proof odometers.
- Quantum Computing: A quantum computing partnership has been forged between the Volkswagen Group and Google. This arrangement may leverage abstract mathematics and high-speed calculations, which can help in traffic and route planning, among other mobility applications.
What’s to Come
Volkswagen is helping drive a few automotive industry trends. Some of the latest VW developments are reflecting technologies like:
- Remote Parking: A remote control or app may soon be all that’s needed to park your car. Upon your prompt, the engine starts and the vehicle parks itself. The technology was first introduced at the Consumer Electronics Show 2015 in Las Vegas.
- Gesture Control: Innovative Gesture Control, a development by Volkswagen, will eliminate the need for dashboard buttons and switches. The first iteration may be a 3D camera and sensors that read your hand gestures to open the sunroof.
- Expansion of Driver Assist Features: A few years ago, Digital Trends predicted dramatic improvements in driver-assist features by 2021. These are already taking hold in the form of crash avoidance, brake assist, and other features, but production-ready self-driving vehicles may soon be on the market.2
Find the Latest VW’s at Jeff D’Ambrosio Volkswagen
Some of the latest Volkswagen innovations are available in the latest model year vehicles. You can find these in our Downingtown dealership’s inventory. To learn more, take a virtual tour here on our website or make an appointment at our physical location. Contact our sales department at 888-585-7794 or visit our New Vehicles page now to see our latest models.
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