Volkswagen presents xl1 concept car

It’s no news that technology evolves rapidly and that people in this area try to come up with ideas, concepts and products that would make our life so much easier. The Qatar Motor Show 2011 was an event that presented such technology. We’re talking about the xl1 concept car Volkswagen came up with then. What makes this plug-in hybrid car so special is the energy efficient technology used. xl1 marks a great step towards the birth of a new class of Super Efficient Vehicles.

With a weight of 795kg, xl1 features highly dynamic aesthetics and is powered by a compact 800 cc TDI two-cylinder common rail diesel engine that linked to an electric motor develops 75PS. The TDI engine is also linked to a seven-speed DSG gearbox.

Volkswagen xl1 concept car

When using only the electric motor, Volkswagen xl1 manages to travel up to 35km. The two engines can work independently or together when accelerating. The car reaches 63mph in 11.9 seconds and comes with an electronically limited top speed of 99mph.

Volkswagen xl1 concept car

In matters of styling and packaging, Volkswagen has made use of the so-called Resin Transfer Moulding (RTM) technique to create the Fibre Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) parts that make up much of the body. Only 184kg (or 23.2% of the car) are made out of iron or steel. To make weigh savings possible, light materials have been used throughout the car. Thus, Volkswagen opted for aluminium in the case of dampers, steering system and brake calipers, magnesium for wheels and ceramics for brake discs. Video cameras replace the car’s side mirrors and the rear wheels are covered.

Volkswagen xl1 concept car Interior

Thanks to its design and technology, xl1 is extremely energy efficient emitting only 24 g/km of CO2. When used in its hybrid mode, the car is expected to return 313mpg. Access to the interior is possible thanks to the two doors that are hinged wings which slide up and slightly forwards.

Volkswagen xl1 concept car Interior

The red LEDs at the back of the car include fog lights, rear and brake lights as well as backup lights. Volkswagen’s xl1 is 3,970 mm long, 1,682 mm wide and 1,184 mm high.