2011 Volkswagen XL1 Concept

A concept car, Volkswagen will unveil the third and latest iteration of its two-seater diesel-electric hybrid concept series, the new XL1 Super Efficient Vehicle (SEV) at this week's Qatar Motor Show, which runs from January 26 to 29.

2011 VW XL1 concept different with its predecessors, now more more conventional approach with the automaker dropping the narrow packaging and tandem seating of the L1 in favor of a much better looking and practical design with the driver and passenger placed next to each.

Engine of Volkswagen XL1 has managed to further improve the car's fuel economy to a staggering 0.9 lt/100 km, equal to 261 mpg US and 313 mpg UK while emitting a mere 24 g/km of CO2.

The Volkswagen XL1 Hybrid Concept is motivated by a small 800 cc TDI two-cylinder common rail diesel engine developing 48-horsepower. It’s linked to an electric motor producing an additional 27HP, resulting in a combined output of 75HP.

Its just 795 kg or 1,752 pounds, thanks to the extensive use of lightweight materials throughout including Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polymer parts for the body, magnesium for the wheels, ceramics for the brake discs and aluminium for dampers, steering system and brake calipers.

Also equipped seven-speed DSG gearbox with an automatic clutch mounted between the diesel engine and eclectic motor. VW says the electric motor can either work independently of the TDI engine or in tandem when accelerating. In pure electric mode the XL1 can reach speed of up to 35 km [22 mph] before the diesel engine cuts in. Accelerating from rest to 100km/h [62 mph] comes in 11.9 seconds, while the electronically limited top speed is 160 km/h [99 mph].