Volkwagen E-up! electric vehicle debut
Volkswagen first all-electric car, the E-up!, has its debut at this years Annual Press and Investors Conference in Wolfsburg. This four-seat electric vehicle operates with almost no noise and zero emissions.
This electric car is designed for daily use in the city, but it is also ideal for commuters or as an innovative second car. With an official NEDC driving range of 93 miles, its battery can be recharged up to 80% capacity within 30 minutes.
The E-up! is powered by an electric motor with 60kW / 82PS peak power – without any disturbing gearshift interruptions or powertrain noise, whilst its continuous power is 40kW / 55PS. Its maximum torque of 210 Newton metres is available immediately with the first revolution.
It accelerates from 0 to 62 mph within 14 seconds and reaches a top speed of 83 mph. The lithium-ion battery integrated in the under-floor area has a total energy storage capacity of 18.7 Kilowatt-hours (kWh). The vehicle’s efficiency is complimented by its low vehicle weight of 1,185 kg.
The port for charging the battery is hidden behind the ‘fuel filling flap’. As an option, the Combined Charging System (CCS) is used, which has been standardised by Volkswagen and other carmakers. It supports both DC and AC charging, so that drivers can easily charge their cars at most charging stations – regardless of the power sources or charging rates that they offer.
The styling of the E-up! is subtle and has a feeling of high quality. One distinctive exterior feature is the curved layout of the LED daytime running lights in the front bumper. In addition, the front end, sills and underbody have been aerodynamically optimised to help this electric vehicle achieve the 93 mile driving range.
In autumn, Volkwagen will present its EV at the International Autoshow in Frankfurt and following this will become available to order. First UK customer deliveries are expected to take place from early 2014.
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