Volkswagen has revealed the XL1 Super Efficient Vehicle concept at the Qatar Motor Show. It uses a plug-in hybrid drivetrain and is claimed to use only 0.9 litres/100km (313mpg) with CO2 emissions of just 24g/km.
The XL1 uses a 48hp, two-cylinder, 0.8-litre turbodiesel engine. This is linked to a 27hp electric motor for a total of 75hp. It might not sound like a lot but it only has 795kg to propel. Driving through a seven-speed DSG automatic transmission VW claims 0-100km/h in 11.9 seconds and a top speed limited to 160km/h. It is also possible to run solely on electric power for 35 kilometres.
Along with light weight - thanks to extensive use of carbon fibre, magnesium and aluminium - the XL1 is designed to slip easily through the air. The coefficient of drag is 0.186 helped in part by the low 1,184mm height.
The styling and packaging make use of lessons learned with the 1-Litre car of 2002 and the 2009 VW L1 concept. The seating layout puts the passenger slightly behind the driver. Access to the cabin is via scissor doors that hinge on the A pillars.
Volkswagen describes the XL1 as the next step to the birth of Super Efficient Vehicles people will be able to buy.