Volkswagen debuts 313mpg XL1 concept

Volkswagen has just unveiled its XL1 to the world, and no, it's not a Burger King special.

This, people of Earth, is the Super Efficient Vehicle; the third iteration of Volkswagen's continuing mission to mock today's emissions regulations by creating a concept which returns 313mpg.

The XL1 also emits 24g/km of CO2, setting unbelievable benchmarks for saving our green 'n' blue hemisphere. VW says its combined range is around 340 miles on a 10-litre tank.

See more pics of the VW XL1 concept

It's powered by a two-cylinder 800cc TDI diesel producing 47bhp, and is linked to a 26bhp electric motor, equalling a total of 73bhp. The power is sent to the rear wheels via a seven-speed DSG gearbox with an automatic clutch fitted between each unit. This means the electric motor can work independently of the diesel or with it when accelerating.

As expected, the XL1 is constructed using space-age materials not yet discovered on this Earth, but probably capable of withstanding nuclear fallout. Or a trip to Burger King. VW says it developed and patented a new system manufacturing carbon fibre reinforced polymer, and as such, the XL1 weighs just 795kg.

The wheels are made of magnesium, the brake discs are ceramic and the boingy stuff is made of aluminium. That slim-fast figure equals a 0-62mph time of 11.9 seconds - not bad for 73bhp - while top speed is limited to 99mph.

It's about as high as a Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder and as long and wide as a VW Polo. And if it results in a motoring universe where Mother Nature doesn't unleash the four horsemen of the apocalypse to destroy humanity, we're all in.

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