The current Volkswagen e-UP! is already a very likeable small Electric car with a range perfect for city use. The revised model to be launched at the upcoming IAA in Frankfurt, will see the model gain a broader appeal.
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The capacity of the batteries has risen from 18.7 kWh to 32.3 kWh. As a result, the vehicle’s range in real driving situations has been extended to up to 161miles whilst the price has been dropped. UK pricing has yet to be released, but for the German market pricing has been pegged at €21,975 before any Government has been applied, so expect something similar in Sterling.
Battery charging times are also small: it takes only 60 minutes to charge the battery to 80 per cent of its capacity with DC (direct current) charging at 40 kW. The e-UP! is equipped as well as many larger EVs offering drivers the opportunity to schedule charging in advance, or stop and start it via a smartphone using the standard “maps + more” app. The app can also be used to operate the air conditioning system in the e-up!
The e-up! may be environmentally friendly, but it’s also really fun to drive. This is thanks to its low centre of gravity, which results from its batteries being integrated into the vehicle floor. The 61-kW electric motor provides maximum torque as soon as the vehicle starts moving. As a result, the urban-friendly e-up! accelerates from 0 to 62mph in only 11.9 seconds and feels so much quicker than the numbers suggest. The model’s top speed is 80mph.
The e-UP! has always appeared to be an expensive model, the new lower price is a result of the economies of scale as VW is ramping up production of batteries and electric motors. Volkswagen plans to offer more electric vehicles than ever before. According to forecasts, in the case of the five- door e-up!, production volume is also set to increase significantly from the predecessor model’s figures.
Standard equipment in the model includes an automatic air conditioning system, the “composition phone” radio system with a Bluetooth interface and DAB+, “maps + more” as a docking station and multifunctional app, as well as the Lane Assist lane departure warning system. The e-up! style variant will offer even more features and further personalisation options.
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