Lower and Sportier

The "E-Bugster," with its 7.4 cm lower overall height and 20-inch wheels compared to the base new "The Beetle," emphasizes sportiness. It is a pure electric vehicle powered by a motor called the "Blue-e-motion Electric Drive Unit." A 695-pound lithium-ion battery is housed beneath the rear seats and the trunk floor, providing a range of approximately 100 miles on a single charge. It can be charged at both 240V and 120V, with charging to 80 percent completed in 30 minutes, which is standard for EVs. The electric motor has a maximum output of 116 ps and a maximum torque of 270 Nm. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph (96.5 km/h) in 11 seconds.

Furthermore, in common with Volkswagen's EVs, it is equipped with distinctive LED daytime running lights at the front and rear. Inside, instead of a tachometer, the panel displays a range indicator, regenerative braking indicator, and battery level gauge.

Jetta Hybrid Model Also Appears

Volkswagen also announced the "Jetta Hybrid" at the same time. As the name suggests, it is a hybrid model of the Jetta, scheduled for market release within 2012. It is powered by a 1.4-liter gasoline engine with a maximum output of 152 ps and a maximum torque of 249 Nm, combined with an electric motor with a maximum output of 27 kW (36 hp), delivering a total maximum output of 172 ps. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in under 9 seconds and achieves a fuel economy of 5.2 L/100 km. The weight is expected to increase by about 100 kg compared to the standard model due to the hybrid system.


Promotional video for Volkswagen's "E-Bugster" concept