VW worldbeater hits 313mpg
VW worldbeater hits 313mpg Two-seater XL1 sets efficiency benchmark, diesel-hybrid drivetrain and hi-tech chassis.
Bosses at VW are laughing in the face of rising fuel prices – with the sensational 313mpg XL1.Â
The new suburban runabout 
is designed to show off the firm’s latest efficiency techniques, and as well as its headline economy, it claims 25g/km CO2 emissions.
Measuring 3.97 metres long and 1.68 metres wide, the XL1 has a similar footprint to the Polo. But its 1.18-metre height is closer to a Lamborghini Gallardo – with the low stance and teardrop body providing slippery aerodynamics.
Enhancing this are small 
cameras instead of wing mirrors, plus a covered rear wheel. That cuts drag to an incredible 0.19Cd; a Toyota Prius registers 0.25Cd.Â
The XL1 debuted at this week’s Qatar Motor Show, and follows 
on from the L1 seen at 2009’s Frankfurt expo. That in turn took its name from 2002’s One Litre car, which could travel more than 100km (62 miles) on a single litre of fuel – equivalent to 282mpg.
The newcomer features a 
conventional two-seater layout, instead of one seat behind the other in the L1. Its returns are even better as it uses a plug-in diesel-electric hybrid powertrain. This comprises a 47bhp 800cc TDI engine, mated to a 27bhp electric motor – so a total of 74bhp is sent to the rear wheels. Plus, a pure electric mode enables the XL1 to travel 22 miles with zero emissions.
The fact the car is 
so feather-light helps efficiency. A host of cutting-edge materials restricts kerbweight to 795kg, despite the 
batteries’ bulk.Â
The monocoque chassis is made of Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) – the same as used on Lamborghini’s Sesto Elemento. This means the XL1 is extremely rigid and safe, as well as light.
VW has patented a new method for producing it, so CFRP is likely to grace showroom models in the near future.
Add magnesium wheels 
and ceramic brake discs, plus aluminium components for the dampers, steering and brake 
calipers, and only 184kg of the total weight is from steel or iron.
The engine and motor are linked in series with a seven-speed DSG box; an automatic clutch separates each unit. The XL1 sprints from 0-62mph in 11.9 seconds – that’s 2.4 seconds faster than the L1 – and hits a limited top speed of 99mph.
Write your own review, and win £3,000 – with Driver Power 2011
Related with this news Japan Auto Store's other car news
