Volkswagen Up! Lite concept blows away the LA crowd
Developed to set new standarts in economy and efficiency, the Volkswagen Up! Lite concept just held its world debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show. According to VW, the new ultra-efficient four seater concept is capable to travel 115.7 miles on a single gallon of fuel while emitting just 65 g/km of CO2. Impressive! These amazing results are possible thanks to the VW Up! Lite's total kerb weight of just 695 kg, which is almost 30 per cent lighter than Volkswagen's Fox city car.
The VW's newcomer is inspired by the L1 Concept which made its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, and its power comes from almost the same engine - 800 cc two cylinder common rail diesel engine developing 51 PS at 4,000 rpm and 88 lbs ft of torque between 1,800 rpm and 2,250 rpm. The diesel engine is combined with an electric motor developing 14 PS to give the Up! Lite a useful boost when overtaking. Alternatively, the electric motor can be disengaged from the diesel unit entirely and used during low speed manoeuvres. Gear changes are carried out via a seven-speed twin clutch DSG automatic gearbox. A Start-Stop system further maximizes the efficiency and regenerative braking of the Up! Lite concept.
The Up! Lite's unique body construction is made of special lightweight materials mix including aluminium and carbon fibre. Its exterior styling follows the new Volkswagen design language but with entirely new elements such as the rear end styling and the window line. Measuring 3,840 mm in length, the VW innovative concept is slightly shorter than the Polo and is styled to maximize aerodynamic efficiency. Examples of aerodynamic modifications include the front radiator grille which shuts off completely when it's not required and tiny cameras which take the place of conventional wing mirrors.
The new VW Up! Lite concept is scheduled for market launch in 2011.
