VW launches the L1 – a 283mpg two-seater hybrid

Volkswagen has launched a two-seater hybrid car that will, when it goes on sale in 2013, be the world’s most aerodynamic, lightweight and fuel efficient car in production.

The VW L1 is able to travel 283 miles on one gallon of fuel – even on its combined cycle it achieves a record-breaking 180mpg.

Despite the impressive fuel efficiency, the L1 is capable of 99mph and a 0-60 time of 14 seconds and a CO₂ figure of 39g/km.

How did VW make the L1 so efficient?

The short answer is by investing a huge amount of expertise and time in the project – the company has been working on the L1 for over a decade.

• The L1 weighs in at a little over 350kg. Savings have been made through the use of the latest composite materials and only half an engine – the designers took the motor from a VW 1.6-litre TDI turbo diesel and chopped it in half before coupling it to a14hp electric motor.

• VW have made the L1 as slippery as possible – the driver is seated in front of the passenger, which makes for a narrower and more aerodynamic shape, and the car does away with wing mirrors in favour of tiny cameras.

The CO₂ figure of 39g/km is exceptionally low for a hybrid vehicle. The following table illustrates how it copmpares with public transport in London based on average passenger numbers.

How soon before I will be driving an L1?

The L1 is due to go on sale in 2013, and whilst no prices have been announced it is unlikely to be cheap.

A spokesperson for the Environmental transport Association (ETA) said: “The L1 is unlikely to sell in large numbers, but its technology will herald 140mpg mass market cars of the near future.”