An Eco-Car Created by Presidential Order

Volkswagen's long-developed "3-liter car." After several generations ofconcept carsconcept cars, the production version was finally announced at Geneva as the "XL1".

The "3-liter car" project began when Ferdinand Piëch, former Chairman of Volkswagen Group, grandson of Ferdinand Porsche (founder of Porsche and also a major Porsche shareholder), ordered "create the ultimate eco-car." The name derives from the goal of limiting fuel consumption to within 3 liters per 100km.

Development progressed by pursuing the established methods of improving performance through aerodynamics and weight reduction. In concept cars from several years ago, the two seats, including the driver's, were arranged in tandem to reduce frontal projected area. However, in the production version released this time, the seats are arranged side-by-side, similar to a conventional two-seater (though the passenger seat is slightly shifted back to ensure space).


The powertrain is a plug-in hybrid system, featuring a 2-cylinder inline diesel engine (max output 48ps), an electric motor (20kW), a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, and a lithium-ion battery (5.5kWh capacity). Combined with the aerodynamic body, which boasts a drag coefficient (Cd) of just 0.189, the fuel efficiency is 111.1km/l, achieving not just a "3-liter car" but a "0.9-liter car." The body is made of carbon monocoque, and the vehicle weighs 795kg, making it comparable in lightness to Japanese Kei cars.

It is capable of traveling up to 50km in EV mode. The top speed is 160km/h (electronically limited), with 0-100km/h acceleration in 12.7 seconds. Only 8.4ps is required for cruising at 100km/h. With dimensions of 3,888mm in length, 1,665mm in width, and 1,153mm in height, it is compact yet elongated. As described, "shorter than a Polo and lower (center of gravity) than a Boxster," it pursues driving pleasure alongside eco-friendliness.

Introduction to Japan is undecided. Hearing "carbon monocoque" suggests it won't be affordably priced, but if it goes on sale, it's sure to attract attention as a sports car with only 48ps plus.