A 10-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox is being developed by the Volkswagen Group. Speaking at the Vienna Motor Symposium, VW Group chief Martin Winterkorn also confirmed that a high-performance diesel engine that will develop 134bhp per 1,000 cc is also in the works.

The diesel engine will feature “variable valve-train assembly, a high-pressure injection system at up to 3,000 bar and combined charging with the innovative e-booster (an electric turbocharger)”.

Winterkorn said he believes that petrol and diesel internal combustion engines could be made 15 percent more efficient with improvements in the combustion process, lightweight design and improved friction levels and thermal management.

VW is also keen to push natural gas technology.

Winterkorn added, “The technology is fully developed and the vehicles are already in the market. We need to make the public even more aware of the benefits of natural gas engines. Everyone needs to play their part in this: carmakers, politicians and the fuel industry.”

Plug-in technology remains the best and most efficient powertrain option for the medium-term, according to Winterkorn.