The Volkswagen XL1 is a sleek, futuristic-looking design that happens to boast a really efficient diesel-electric powertrain. It's awesome, but it's super expensive. That's why VW has decided to put the XL1's setup in a cheaper car, the very cool Up!, in addition to the gas and electric-onlyversions of the funky little VW we don't get.
Being shown at the Tokyo Motor Show, the Twin-Up is VW's way of showing off a crazy concept car. It makes a lot of sense, though, since Up! is one of the least-expensive cars the company offers.
Automotive News reports the XL1's two-cylinder turbodiesel and electric motor sit up front with the Twin-Up's rear full of lithium ion battery pack. The result, obviously, isn't as fuel efficient as the carbon fiber and wind-cheating XL1, but it's still an impressive 214 mpg. The sprint to 62, however, is pegged at 15.7 seconds.
No word on if the Twin-Up will go on sale, but it's further proof that the brilliance of the XL1 is slated for mainstream cars of the near-future. Now we just need the Up! in the U.S., even if it's sort of here.
Photo: Volkswagen