Volkswagen L1 Concept
Monday, Volkswagen announced an ultra fuel efficient car L1 concept that is says to get 100 kilometers on 1.38-liters of fuel. This precedes a 2002 concept design that could go 100 kilometers on 1-liter of fuel, equivalent to about 235 mpg. Although it doesn’t quite match up to the original model, it’s still very impressive none-the-less.
Overall, the car is not very good looking as you can tell. However, the design is meant to light in order to improve efficiency. Access to the L1 is through a hinged canopy. It has camera’s on the exterior to give you a 180 degree view of the rear of the car. The speedometer and other instruments are also all displayed on a LCD. We didn’t notice any stereo system in the cabin, however there are volume controls on the steering wheel.
The L1 takes 14.3 seconds to get to 62 mph, with a top speed of only 99 mph. It’s powered by a new .8-liter version of its TDI engine with only two cylinders. The driver can select between Eco and Sport modes: in the former, the engine produces 27 horsepower, while in Sport it peaks at 39 horsepower. Since it’s a diesel, the torque is much higher, getting 74 pound-feet at 1,900 rpm. A 13 horsepower electric motor giving additional power to the car. The motor is powered by electricity from a lithium-ion battery pack in the front of the car. As a hybrid, it has a start-stop system, shutting down the engine when stopped in traffic. With its 10-liter fuel tank, Volkswagen estimates a range of 416 miles. It also comes with the seven speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG). The DSG transmission uses two computer-controlled clutches to provide automated shifting with manual transmission performance.
The Volkswagen has current plans to launch the L1 in 2013. Unfortunately, there doesn’t appear to be a price tag set on this yet.
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September 15, 2009
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