VW launches 261mpg car

Volkswagen has announced it is to sell its long-awaited XL-1 - a plug-in hybrid car with a combined fuel consumption rating of 261 mpg.

The XL1 is the most aerodynamic production car ever (Cd 0.19) and with a weight of 795kg it can cruise at a constant 62 mph while using just 8.3 horsepower. In all-electric mode, the two-seater requires less than 0.1 kWh to cover more than a kilometre.

The XL1 emits just 21 g/km of CO2, thanks to its lightweight design, aerodynamic efficiency, and a plug-in hybrid system comprising a 47-hp two-cylinder TDI diesel engine, a 27-hp electric motor, a seven-speed automatic transmission, and a lithium-ion battery.

The XL1 has a top speed of 99 mph and can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 12.7 seconds. There is no word yet on price, but XL1 will cut a dramatic profile on the road - it is shorter and narrower than a VW polo and 12cm lower than a Porsche Boxster.

Hyper-fuel-efficient, four-seater cars

VW XL1 may boast astounding fuel efficiency, but what if you need more than two seats?

The Automotive X Prize, a competition to find the best super-efficient vehicles capable of 100mpg (or energy equivalent), has been won by The Edison 2 Very Light Car. It has a performance almost identical to the VW XL1, but can carry four passengers and return 120mpg.

The distinctive-looking car uses a rear-mounted, single-cylinder motorcycle engine running on a blend of 85 per cent ethanol and 15 per cent petrol to produce 40 horsepower.