VW facts about new Jetta TDI Cup series

Volkswagen announces new Jetta TDI Cup Series

Overview
Jetta TDI Cup is the first ever all-diesel powered car racing series, unique to VW.

30 cars will be identically prepped for 108 races that will primarily take place within 2 hours from top markets.

The top 2 drivers will have the opportunity to go to Germany and participate in the final "Polo Cup" race of the European season against other "VW Cup" drivers from 9 other countries. Jetta TDI Cup is based upon the successful European Polo Cup racing series, and other Volkswagen "Cup" series in coiuntries such as Japan, Denmark and South Africa. Exposure in the Volkswagen Cup racing series here often leads to more lucrative offers from higher forms of motorsport.

Jetta TDI Vehicle

Jetta TDI Cup will feature 30 new 2008 Jetta TDI vehicles, equipped with 2.0 Liter 4 cylinder turbo diesel engines, automatic DSG transmissions, ABS racing brakes, fully independent racing suspension, and special drivers side supplemental restraint airbag, showcasing the latest technology for US market.

The Jetta TDI Cup car will also feature a complete exterior body kit that

Ccustomers can purchase the same parts featured on the TDI Cup for their Jettas through the dealer network. as port installed accessories.

Recruitment

Need to recruit 40 drivers (30 starters and 10 reserve) via VW.com. Drivers will be selected through an application process on VW.com with a series of qualifying stages that will eliminate applicants from the competition. For example, in addition to the online application the applicants will have to submit a video describing why they want to be in the cup. Drivers will be between the ages of 16-246.

VWoA Motorsport Board (A group of select racing professionals) picks the final 30 +10 drivers.

The first qualifying race to select the final drivers will be in March; the first race event with the finalists is scheduled for April 26-27 2008.May.

VW will find sponsors for each car. Drivers may ust bring up to two a personal sponsors of their choice (approved by VWoA).

Each driver may enter the Jetta TDI Cup for a maximum of three years. The winner of the 2008 Jetta TDI Cup cannot participate in the series again.

Once a driver wins, they need to move on. This is part of the push to have our young drivers continue to build their professional motorsport career.

VW will have to recruit drivers each year. Even those who were in the series the previous year have to reapply. They are not automatically asked back.

Estimated Prize Money
If a driver wins a race - $1500.
Win the series points championship at the end of the season - $100,000.
$250,000 if the series point champion driver is picked up by a professional motorsport series team for a full season within 6 months.

-credit: volkswagen