Volkswagen XL1

Volkswagen chose the Qatar motor show to debut its new XL1 Super Efficient Vehicle. The latest evolution of the SEV niche – that stretches back to the 1-liter concept of 2002 – makes extensive use of lightweight materials and hybrid technologies to offer a reported 313mpg.

The car's exterior is a clear evolution of the tandem seat L1 from 2009. The DRG remains similar, with the narrow lights stretching across the grille-less face. The use of fender filling front tires with single piece wheels, enclosed rears and the elongated tail all point toward improved aerodynamics, with a reported 0.186Cd. It would appear that function leads form with the XL1.

Inside, the tandem seat layout of the previous L1 interior has been dropped in favor of a more conventional set up, while the revised IP sports a familiar Volkswagen feel, with an undertone of simplicity and weight saving that is evident in the spartan interior.

Though still being heralded as a concept, the XL1 brings with it advances in composite material usage and production. The extensive use of existing Volkswagen parts inside the car would suggest that a production version may not be that far off.

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