Today's post is on the Volkswagen L1 Concept (L1) which was announced at the Frankfurt Auto Show. This is a car that Volkswagen plans on producing...the anticipated launch date would be 2013.The L1 is an unusual two seat vehicle with a 1+1 configuration! It is probable that the 1+1 configuration may change since that would not be a popular seller.
It features a highly efficient engine, super aerodynamics, and extremely light weight. The new trend in German cars is small engines with a high horsepower rating per liter. The L1 comes with a two cylinder 39-hp turbo-diesel and a 14-hp electric motor.
The body is made of light weight carbon fiber and results in a extremely low weight of 838 lbs. The combination of a small turbo diesel and the low weight results in super gas mileage of approximately 240 mpg.
SUMMARY:
It is a great design exercise in developing a green vehicle with a small turbo diesel hybrid. The L1 was designed for a limited market since it can only carry two passengers. This appears to be a green commuter vehicle.
It is also another shot fired in the onslaught of German diesel hybrids!
Now that is an interesting looking car. Is the last photo on the salt flats. That is what it looks like? It only seats two people. That might be a draw back. Nice gas millage.
ReplyDeleteDan and Deanna "Marketing Unscrambled"
Hi Pete .. it's a really interesting concept for the future.. Presumably by being light weight it is 'safe' ..
ReplyDeleteAll the best - Hilary Melton-Butcher
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Hi Dan & Deanna,
ReplyDeleteThis appears to me to be a commuter car with two people. It appears that Volkswagen is going to produce the car. I don't think they will produce this car in this configuration.
In the past, cars with two seats were normally sports cars. If gas goes high enough...maybe enough people will buy this car!
Best Regards
Pete Baca
The Car Enthusiast Online
Hi Hilary,
ReplyDeleteYes...this car is extremely light. In spite of what manufacturers say about safety....weight counts in a collision.
I would not want to be in this car when it is hit by an SUV or big car.
Best Regards
Pete Baca
The Car Enthusiast Online
Hello Peter,
ReplyDeleteThe wind will be a factor with this car as well. We often get high winds in our area. If the winds are high enough to blow over a semi truck this car is not going to be to good.
Have a good day.
Dan and Deanna "Marketing Unscrambled"
Hi Dan & Deanna,
ReplyDeleteThank you for bringing up the stability in high winds. Yes the weight is a definite factor...I would be hesitant to drive this car in much of the western U.S. I lived in Texas for a while...the spring brings major winds of 100 mph.
Thanks for your comment!
PEte Baca
The Car Enthusiast Online