Volkswagen Creates Classic Beetle With e-Up!-Sourced Electric Powertrain

Volkswagen Group Components and eClassics have teamed up to create an electric version of an old Beetle.

The e-Beetle is a near-production model that will make its debut at the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show next week.

eClassics carried out the conversion using parts from the VW e-Up!, such as the battery, electric motor and one-speed gearbox. Feeding the 82 PS (81 hp / 60 kW) electric motor is a 36.8 kWh lithium-ion battery. Mounted at the underbody, it provides a 200-km (124-mile) range and also supports fast charging, so if you run out of juice, all you have to do is plug it in for about an hour to get another 150 km (92 miles) of range.

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Due to the added weight, reinforced chassis and new brakes, the e-Beetle tips the scales at 1,280 kg (2,822 lbs). Performance is more than decent, as the car needs less than 4 seconds to accelerate to 50 km/h (mph), and just a little over 8 seconds to hit 80 km/h (31 mph). Flat out, it will do 150 km/h (93 mph).

“The electrified Beetle combines the charm of our classic car with the mobility of the future. Innovative e-components from Volkswagen Group Components are under the bonnet – we work with them to electrify historically important vehicles, in what is an emotional process”, said VW Group Components Member of the Board of Management, Thomas Schmall. “We are also providing Beetle owners with a professional conversion solution, using production parts of the highest quality.”

Aside from the Beetle, owners of other classic vehicles will be able to convert their rides to electric power. “We are already working together to prepare the platform for the Bus”, added Schmall. “An e-Porsche 356 could also be pursued in the future.” Additionally, they could use the new MEB platform in the future, which would provide a great balance between range and performance.