2012 NAIAS: Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid / E-Bugster Concept
Volkswagen used its press conference to tout its first Jetta Hybrid and found a fun way to package an electric car within its latest Beetle with the two-seat E-Bugster Concept. The concept would have a 100 mile range thanks to a nearly 700 pound lithium-ion battery and a 114 horsepower electric motor.
Of course Volkswagen didn’t pass up the opportunity to sportify the Beetle a bit so they lowered the roof by three inches and included some 20” wheels that look positively gigantic on this thing. It’s unlikely to reach production but the Jetta Hybrid will be available in the US by the end of the year. It uses a small lithium-ion battery by hybrid standards (1.1 kWh) and a 27 hp electric motor to earn an expected 45 mpg combined rating. Despite the small battery VW claims the Jetta will propel itself up to 44 mph for up to 1.2 miles under ideal circumstances. When it comes time to burn some hydrocarbons the Jetta Hybrid will use a new-to-the-US 1.4 liter turbo I4 good for 150 hp. Coupled to a 7-speed dual-clutch the Jetta Hybrid will be able to reach 60 mph in under 9 seconds and should lend a hint of sportiness to what could have otherwise been a lethargic slug had they chosen to fit a CVT like some automakers do.
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid
Photos by Jason Muxlow
2013 Volkswagen E-Bugster Concept
Photos by Jason Muxlow
