According to German publication Automobilwoche Volkswagen chief Dr Martin Winterkorn has confirmed the diesel-electric hybrid XL1, revealed at the Qatar Motor Show earlier this week, will be built. It’s due in a couple of years and just 100 are likely to be made utlising the production facilities at Wolfsburg or Dresden.
At a mere 795kg and with a combined fuel consumption figure of just 0.9l/100km the XL1 shapes as being one of the best eco-conscious cars money can buy. But is it likely to be any good, or will it be little more than a meek marketing gimmick? With such limited production plans it looks like Volkswagen is hedging its bets.
However, Autocar journo Hilton Holloway was in Qatar during the week and he had the opportunity to drive the two-seat city car concept. If his thoughts are anything to go by, Volkswagen should feel optimistic. Here are a few of his comments:
“I’ve just been scurrying around Doha in the sole Volkswagen XL1. And although it’s a very early prototype, the concept is clearly right on the money.”
“What was so surprising was that the XL1 felt so safe and secure, despite me having to mix it with wayward Toyota Landcruisers.”
“One other thing struck me. With a bigger motor, the XL1 would probably make the most amazing eco-supercar.”
[Source: Automobilwoche (translated) via engadget]
3 replies on “Volkswagen confirms limited production for lean, green XL1”
And I thought the Prius was the ugly duckling… This is a dangerous trend, “green/eco” cars look at home next a Delorean, and they are not a great looking car…
I kinda know what you mean, but I don’t mind the look of the XL1. It’s certainly a bit better than the original 1-litre car from the early 2000s.
Aside from the rear wheel covers and the droopy tail-lights, I think it looks great. An XL1-ified Golf would look fantastic imho.