Volkswagen Group is getting set to unveil an all-new electric concept car at the upcoming 2012 North American International Auto Show next month. The company will also debut the production version of the Volkswagen Jetta hybrid.
According to reports, Volkswagen wants to show it is serious about introducing battery-based eco-friendly technologies.
Specific details on the electric concept car are unknown at this stage, including body styling and powertrain layout, however reports suggest the concept won’t be based on any existing model in the company’s line-up. Rumour has it styling will be inspired by the Volkswagen Beetle. Production of the vehicle is unlikely with Volkswagen calling it a “pure concept”. Like many other concepts though, elements of its design and, more importantly, technical make-up could provide inspiration for an upcoming all-electric model in the future.
The German manufacturer is also set to unveil the Volkswagen Jetta hybrid at the Detroit show, showcasing a 1.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine and an electric motor. The car is scheduled to hit the US market in November 2012.
The Volkswagen Jetta hybrid is pitched as a direct rival to the Toyota Prius, with Volkswagen US hoping to take some of the sales away from the popular Japanese model.
December 21st, 2011 at 10:38 am
Electric variant of Volkswagen Beetle is set to appear in Detroit Auto Show next month along with VW Jetta Hybrid, as per Detroit News reports. Electric variant of Beetle will be called as “Beetle-esque,” confirmed by VW. 1.4-liter turbocharged engine seems to be appealing in the hybrid segment but without seeing its performance no-one can decide its fate.