The up! Equipped with the "XL1" Powertrain That Runs 100km on 1 Liter

The "twin up!" is a plug-in hybrid that combines a 0.8-liter, two-cylinder TDI engine producing a maximum output of 35kW with an electric motor also producing 35kW. It uses a 7-speed DSG transmission. This system is transplanted from the"XL1"vehicle that can travel over 100km on 1 liter.


To accommodate these power units, the front overhang was extended by 30mm, but this is the only change to the body; the interior, which comfortably seats four people, remains the same. Beneath the rear bench seat and luggage compartment are the "Fuel Storage System," which houses an 8.6kWh lithium-ion battery, a 12V battery for the car's electronics, and a 33-liter fuel tank.



Due to the installation of the battery and other components, the vehicle's weight has increased by 285kg compared to the current "high up!" to 1,205kg. Nevertheless, thanks to the highly efficient plug-in hybrid system and the use of narrow, low-rolling-resistance 165/65R15 tires, it achieves 1.1L/100km in European measurements. In Japanese notation, this is approximately 90.9km/L. CO2 emissions are a mere 27g/km.

Performance is also ensured: in EV mode, it reaches 60km/h from a standstill in 8.8 seconds, with a top speed of 125km/h. In hybrid mode with the diesel engine, boasting a maximum torque of 215Nm, it accelerates from 0-100km/h in 15.7 seconds. In this mode, the top speed reaches 140km/h.



The vehicle exhibited at theTokyo Motor Showwas presented in a special exclusive color, "Sparkling White." At first glance, it appears to be a pearlescent white, but it actually contains fine blue glass flakes, creating subtle visual effects depending on how the light hits it.



The "XL1," already confirmed for release in Europe, is a two-seater. While aerodynamically superior, its dimensions are extremely small at 3,888mm long, 1,665mm wide, and 1,153mm high. Notably, its height is even lower than that of thePorsche"Boxster" and the 911 Cabriolet. The luggage space at the rear is 120 liters. While this is a practical amount for a specialty coupe, it's a figure that makes it difficult to consider for everyday use.



In contrast, the twin up!, while sacrificing a slight amount of fuel efficiency, gains the utility of the four-door"up!"version, promising more than sufficient performance in terms of usability. Although Volkswagen has made no official statement, this is a model that holds promise for future commercialization.