DOHA, Qatar (Jan. 25, 2011) — Volkswagen A.G. has developed a prototype plug-in diesel-electric hybrid car it claims can deliver 261 mpg.
Called the XL1, the two-seat aerodynamic car uses a lithium-ion battery pack, a 26-hp electric motor and a two-cylinder, 800cc, 47-hp turbo-diesel engine for the powertrain. Power is delivered through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Weighing in at just 1,753 pounds, the XL1 can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 11.9 seconds. Top speed is limited to 99 mph. With a 2.6-gallon fuel tank, VW said the concept has a driving range of 341 miles.
The XL1, the third evolution of Volkswagen's 1-liter car strategy unveiled at the turn of the century, runs on relatively narrow — 115/80R15 front; 145/55R16 rear — low rolling-resistance-optimized tires from Group Michelin.
With a wheelbase of 87.6 inches and overall length of 153.1 inches, the XL1 is 7 inches shorter than a Honda CR-Z.
The XL1 debuts at the Qatar Motor Show Jan. 26-29.