Visitors to the 23rd annual Society of Environmental Journalists Conference in Chattanooga this week got a chance to check out one of the most newsworthy green cars out there: the Volkswagen XL 1. Billed as the world’s most fuel-efficient and aerodynamic production car, the XL 1 takes aerodynamics to extremes and shows what’s possible when a company pulls out all of the stops in creating an efficient car.
The XL 1’s estimated 200mpg comes courtesy of its adherence to three principles more commonly seen in sports cars: light weight, low center of gravity and obsessive attention to aerodynamics. Weighing in at only 1753 pounds, the XL 1 is a plug-in hybrid powered by a two-cylinder turbodiesel and a 27-horsepower electric motor. The motor is powered by lithium-ion batteries, and the powertrain uses a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission. Volkswagen claims a top speed of 99mph and a 0-62mph run of 12.7 seconds, which is comparable with other electrics.
Most striking is the smooth envelope body, which contributes to the coefficient of drag of just 0.19. Lower than a Porsche Boxster by five inches, the XL 1 is a slippery two-seater with numerous aero tricks, including full skirts over the rear wheels.
The XL 1 was on hand for the conference partly because of Volkswagen’s ties to the region. The Passat is built in Chattanooga, and Volkswagen’s plant a significant contributor to the economy.
And yes, the XL 1 is a production vehicle, though it’s currently only available in Europe and will be limited to 250 built with a six-figure price tag.
