A top car expert has revealed Volkswagen once built the “world’s most fuel-efficient car” with the little-known model capable of up to 300 miles per gallon. The Volkswagen XL1’s carbon-fibre bodywork ensures it has the “lowest drag” of any production petrol or diesel car to hit the roads. This, and the limited 74 horsepower, means the XL1 prioritises fuel efficiency over speed but stands out among the most peculiar models of the 21st century.
Built as a side project by the head of VW and Audi, Ferdinand Piech, the XL1's status as a somewhat spiritual sister to the world’s fastest sportscar makes this a gem worth remembering. The XL1 was released to customers in June 2014 with a limited production run of just 250 units.
A two-cylinder TDI engine diesel engine was combined with a plug-in electric motor, fitted together with a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox and a lithium-ion battery.
Speaking on YouTube, an expert for @DailyDrivenExotics said: “This is designed to be the world’s most fuel-efficient car. It’s 74 horsepower. But it’ll do 300 miles per gallon.
“A mid-rear engine hybrid, everything about it is carbon fibre. It’s a completely carbon fibre tub. Twin-clutch box, magnesium alloys, carbon ceramic brakes. It has the lowest drag coefficient of any production car ever made.
“This is the Volkswagen XL1. They made 250 of them and it was commissioned by Ferdinand Piech who was the group director and CEO of Volkswagen and Audi group at the time."
He added: “He commissioned the Bugatti Veyron and this at a similar time. He wanted his band to achieve the ultimate end of each spectrum,
“The Bugatti Veyron is designed to be the fastest car, this is designed to be the world's most fuel-efficient car.”
YouTube users quickly took to the comments section to highlight their shock at the vehicle with some even admitting to having previously jumped behind the wheel.
@schrobbi7396 posted: “I drove one for 2 weeks. It was amazing. They sold it for around 120k Euro but the cost were around 400k Euro per car. If you got one, keep it it will go up to the 400k one day.”
@AndorRadnai remarked: “This is one of those cars that are cool for a very different reason than looks or power. They described it as an efficiency supercar I think, and that dedication to a goal makes this car cool.”
Meanwhile, others were desperate to get their hands on the model to cut down costs on their drive to the office.
@BioSphynx added: “Need this for my 170 mile commute. Wouldn't hurt at all.”
@ruanroux7122 remarked: “Now just make it cheap and affordable for everyone.”
Facebook Conversations