Conceptually, is behind the XL1, the third step in the evolution of the one-liter car strategy of Volkswagen. The current VW chairman Ferdinand Piech had formulated the beginning of the century, the aim of launching a full-fledged, everyday cars, with a consumption of 1.0 liters for mass production. With the new XL1 this goal is now within reach, so VW. Made possible by the lightweight , by a sophisticated aerodynamics with a Cd value of 0.186 and a plug-in hybrid system.
The drive consists of a two-cylinder TDI with 48 hp motor with 20 kW (27 hp), a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox and a lithium-ion battery. So shall survive the XL1 with 0.9 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers and emits only 24 grams of CO2 per kilometer. As designed as a plug-in hybrid, the prototype can be the XL1 also over a distance of up to 35 miles all-electric and so drove emissions. The battery is charged on conventional electricity. Via regenerative braking recharges the battery during braking also on - the electric motor acts as a generator in this case.