According to Autocar, Volkswagen are planning to launched a limited run version of its GTi Golf which makes extensive use of lightweight aluminum and carbon fiber materials to save as much as 200kg compared to the standard Golf model.

Its front bulkhead, windscreen surround and floor panels will be fashioned from lightweight aluminium and the roof and bonnet from hi-tech carbonfibre. The materials will allow VW to take as much as 200kg (440lbs) off the Carbon GTi’s kerb weight, pushing it towards a highly competitive 1125kg (2480lbs) but still some way from the original GTi, which weighed in at just 810kg (1785lbs). The reduced weight could give the vehicle a 0-to-60-mph time under six seconds as well as improved handling and braking performance.

According to the article, the roof is a sandwich of two layers of carbon fiber over a thin steel core, which allows the roof to be welded into the body on a standard production line. An aluminum alloy bulkhead, windscreen surround and complete rear floor contribute to the weight saving by replacing traditional steel components.

The added cost of manufacturing the carbon fiber components ensures that vehicle production will be limited with a possible launch in 2014 to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Golf.

Volkswagen have recently announced that the new standard Golf model has made substantial weight savings and successfully improved fuel economy by 23%.

Read the full article on Autocar