Volkswagen helped create a fully electric version of its iconic 1960s Microbus that fans can buy - see inside
From afar, Volkswagen's new e-Bulli concept looks a lot like any well-preserved, classic VW van. But inside, it tells a much different story.
This 1966 van hasn't just been meticulously restored, the retro ride has been retrofitted with a modern, electric powertrain.
That electric power plant comes courtesy of Volkswagen, but the conversion was completed by eClassics, a tuning company that updates yesterday's cars using today's electric motors and tech.
Sending a claimed 82 horsepower to the rear wheels, the e-Bulli's electric motor seems mighty puny, but remember that the bus originally made do with just 43.
Plus, the updated bus purportedly generates 156 pound-feet of torque, more than double that of the original four-pot boxer engine. And all that torque is available instantly — typical for electric motors — which should put some pep in the e-Bulli's step.
The e-Bulli has an electronically limited top speed of 80 mph, which is slightly improved over the gas version's 65 mph. That makes sense, considering that the bus has the aerodynamics of a slightly rounded brick.
VW says the e-van travels more than 124 miles between fill ups. And if owning a 1960s-era van compels you to embark on a longer road trip, not to worry — the e-Bulli can charge up to 80% battery in 40 minutes.
The e-Bulli mostly resembles VW buses of a half-century ago, save for a few modern touches like LED headlights, a new speedometer ...
... and an updated gear shifter that allows drivers to adjust regenerative braking.
Plus, a ceiling-mounted tablet display helps to preserve the bare-bones look of the van's dash and cockpit.
The e-Bulli also gets hardwood flooring and new leather upholstery.
Fortunately, the e-Bulli isn't a one-off concept, and eClassics will build European customers an electric VW bus for a starting price of roughly $71,000. That's without options and not including the bus itself, but a pop-top camper version sure sounds nice.
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