VW prototype being tested

Local R&D head tells engineers club about car to be built here

Volkswagen's head of research and development in Chattanooga told the Chattanooga Engineers Club on Monday that VW is entering the prototype testing phase for a new midsize sedan that the automaker will build here.

Ralph Jakobs told members of the engineering group that it takes 46 months to develop a car.

"I and my team will be driving and evaluating those vehicles," said Mr. Jakobs, who plans to include Volkswagen's new DSG double-clutch transmission technology in the sedan that will be produced at VW's plant here beginning in 2011.

For Mr. Jakobs, who paid for a post-secondary education by playing table tennis at the national level, Chattanooga is the latest in a series of high-profile international assignments that have ranged from the Czech Republic to Detroit.

"Chattanooga has a long history in manufacturing, and I'm impressed by the level of education here as well," Mr. Jakobs said. "Americans are different, by the way they use the vehicles and the way they purchase the vehicles."

In his native Germany, customers typically special order a vehicle and drive for pleasure. Americans buy a car off a lot and drive longer distances, he said, drawing laughter when he mentioned the American penchant for large cupholders.

Volkswagen's design philosophy is driven not only by technical expertise but also by employees' passion for automobiles, he added.

"They're crazy about what they do, especially when it comes to quality and appearances," Mr. Jakobs said. "Volkswagen has the reputation of underpromising and overdelivering."

Lulu Copeland, a manager in computer and technical training at Chattanooga State, said Mr. Jakob's visit was a good opportunity for Volkswagen and the engineers club.

"We want him to know Chattanooga has a large engineering presence - we have been here for over 90 years," she said.

Holly Gruber, with North Georgia EMC, said Mr. Jakob's presentation was engaging and entertaining.

"I think the relationship is going to be mutually beneficial," Ms. Gruber said.

Upcoming Events