Volkswagen “electrifies high-volume production” according to their latest press release, announcing the introduction of the e-Golf and e-up! at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, 12th to 22nd September 2013.
Both cars will have zero emissions, two driving modes, four regenerative braking modes and four doors – and unlimited everyday practicality. Made in Germany and featuring technology developed in-house, such as e-motors, gearboxes and lithium-ion batteries, the cars can be charged to 80% capacity in less than half an hour if the fastest CCS charging stations are used. They will be available to order later this year, with the first deliveries in early 2014.
Specification:
- All-electric drive system
- Automatic climate control
- Parking heater and ventilation
- Radio-navigation system
- Windscreen heating
- LED daytime running lights
e-Golf
- 5 seats
- LED headlights as standard
- 190 km driving range (24.2 kWh battery)
- 12.7 kWh/100km
- 85 kW/115 PS electric motor
- Maximum torque of 270 Nm from starting
- Front wheel drive
- 100 km/h in 10.4 seconds
- Top speed limited to 140 km/h
e-up!
- 4 seats
- 11.7 kWh/100km sets benchmark for efficiency
- 60 kW/82 PS
- 210 Nm of torque from standstill
- 100 km/h in 12.4 seconds
- Top speed of 130 km/h
- 160 km range on one battery charge (18.7 kWh)
- Special leather and chrome accents inside
The range for the new electric Volkswagen cars should be more than sufficient, according to the Federal Ministry for Transport, Building and Urban Development in Germany. Their studies show that most people drive less than 50 km daily. The average commute in the UK has dropped in the last few years to just 16.7 miles, according to Randstad - around 26 km.
The Volkswagen e-up! has already won an award celebrating its green credentials from NextGreenCar.com. The “high quality but affordable electric city car”, available from early 2014, “could be the catalyst for a step-change in urban electric car adoption,” according to NextGreenCar.com, who presented it with their Next Generation Award.
Motoring.co.uk claims the e-up! looks “fabulous” thanks to a curved headlight layout and aerodynamic styling, as well as “eye-catching” machine-polished 15" alloy wheels.
Volkswagen says: “The new zero-emission Volkswagen cars have the potential for irreversibly charging up the electric car segment with innovative technology, a high level of everyday practicality and a dynamic driving feeling.”
If you’re lucky enough to be attending the Frankfurt Motor Show and taking in all the new releases at the event, be sure to check out the impressive Volkswagen stand, showcasing these world premieres as well as the brand new Golf R and nearly 9000 square foot of Volkswagen design and innovation.