Volkswagen Transforms Its Iconic VW Beetle into an Electric Vehicle

Electric Volkswagen Beetle

Volkswagen continues investing in sustainable technology by converting their classic models into modern electric vehicles. The newest icon to get the more eco-friendly treatment is the VW Beetle, which has been electrified by Volkswagen Group Components in collaboration with eClassics. The converted e-Beetle has an electric engine, 1-speed gearbox, and battery based on the e-Up!—Volkswagen's all-electric car. By combining old and new, the VW Beetle is getting a contemporary upgrade while still retaining its vintage feel.

“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,” explains Thomas Schmall, Member of the Board of Management of Volkswagen Group Components. “We are also providing Beetle owners with a professional conversion solution, using production parts of the highest quality.”

While the e-Beetle weighs just over 2,800 pounds, its performance hasn't slowed down. It can accelerate to 30 miles per hour in just under four seconds and 50 miles per hour in just over eight seconds. Reaching its top speed, the electric Beetle can zip around at 93 miles per hour. So how much energy does it have? Its battery system has 14 modules, each with a capacity of 2.6 kWh. These lithium-ion batteries cumulatively deliver energy of up to 36.8 kWh. With a range of 125 miles, drivers can enjoy a relaxing day on the road without worry. Should the Beetle run out of energy, it has a fast-charging system that allows it to travel 93 miles after charging for just an hour.

The near-production model of the e-Beetle was debuted at the 2019 International Motor Show, which takes place in Frankfurt, Germany every September. The successful concept means that more historic car conversions could be on the horizon, with Volkswagen hinting that an e-Porsche 356 might be arriving soon.

Volkswagen has converted the classic Beetle into an electric vehicle.

Electrified VW Beetle

Electric Volkswagen Beetle

Electric VW Beetle

The e-Beetle can reach speeds of up to 93 miles per hour.

Classic Volkswagen Beetle Made Electric

Classic Volkswagen Beetle Made Electric

Classic VW Beetle Made Electric

Its fast-charging system lets you travel nearly 100 miles with just one hour of charging time.

Electric Volkswagen Beetle

Electrified VW Beetle

h/t: [designboom]

All images via Volkswagen.

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Jessica Stewart

Jessica Stewart is a Contributing Writer and Digital Media Specialist for My Modern Met, as well as a curator and art historian. Since 2020, she is also one of the co-hosts of the My Modern Met Top Artist Podcast. She earned her MA in Renaissance Studies from University College London and now lives in Rome, Italy. She cultivated expertise in street art which led to the purchase of her photographic archive by the Treccani Italian Encyclopedia in 2014. When she’s not spending time with her three dogs, she also manages the studio of a successful street artist. In 2013, she authored the book 'Street Art Stories Roma' and most recently contributed to 'Crossroads: A Glimpse Into the Life of Alice Pasquini'. You can follow her adventures online at @romephotoblog.
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