VW is the recent automaker to standardize the electrical transformation of its classic vehicles–beginning with the classic Beetle. The first prototype was revealed ahead of the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, Germany.
Last year, Jaguar announced that it was bringing the classic E-Type back to life with a fresh electrical conversion kit based on I-Pace technology.
Now VW is announcing something comparable to the classic Beetle based on the latest e-up! Powertrain, man.
The German automaker claims that it can fit a battery pack of up to 36.8 kWh into what the e-Beetle is now calling: “The battery system is constructed into the body and consists of up to 14 modules, each with a capability of 2.6 kWh.
Lithium-ion battery modules produce up to 36.8 kWh of energy cumulatively. Higher output and enhanced weight owing to the degree of electrification involve adaptation and strengthening of the chassis and brakes. Despite a fresh complete weight of 1,280 kg, the e-Beetle accelerates to 50 km / h in just under four seconds and 80 km in just over eight seconds.
The e-Beetle range, which reaches top speeds of up to 150 km / h, is 200 km–a comfortable distance for a relaxing day out in an electrified classic vehicle. In the case that the e-Beetle runs out of electricity during the journey, the built-in series-produced parts enable rapid charging via a mixed charging scheme. As a consequence, the e-Beetle can store enough energy for a trip of more than 150 km after charging for about an hour.
While VW manufactures all parts for electrical conversion, they have partnered with eClassics in Renningen, close Stuttgart, for installation. Thomas Schmall, Member of the Management Board of Volkswagen Group Components, remarked on the following project: “Electrified Beetle combines the charm of our classic car with the mobility of the future. Innovative e-components from Volkswagen Group Components are under the spotlight–we are working with them to electrify historically significant cars in an emotional process. We also provide Beetle owners with a professional conversion solution, using manufacturing components of the greatest quality.
They didn’t release details about pricing and availability of the conversion yet, but they are already talking about adapting the conversion kit to other classics.
Schmall said, “We’re already working together to prepare the bus platform. In the future, e-Porsche 356 could also be pursued.”
Some images [4] of the prototype e-Beetle that will be displayed in Frankfurt
