An electric powertrain for the classic Beetle

Older examples of the Volkswagen Beetle can now have their air-cooled petrol engines replaced by an electric powertrain. The conversion – which Volkswagen officially endorses and promotes – is carried out by German firm eClassics.

It utilises the same 80 bhp (60 kW / 82 PS) motor, single-speed transmission and 36.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that are found in the latest e-Up! city car.

Volkswagen e-Beetle / e-Käfer Cabriolet (2019) Front Side

Thanks partly to some chassis reinforcement work, the e-Beetle (or e-Käfer in German) weighs a fairly substantial 1,280 kg (2,822 lbs). Nevertheless, performance is much improved, as evidenced by a 0-50 mph (80 km/h) time of just over eight seconds. The 93 mph (150 km/h) top speed should be sufficient for most customers.

Anticipated driving range is adequate at around 124 miles (200 kilometres). Unfortunately, replenishment times are a bit vague, but an hour plugged into a fast charger is claimed to be enough to travel an extra 93 miles (150 kilometres).

Volkswagen e-Beetle / e-Käfer Cabriolet (2019) Rear Side

Volkswagen Group Components is keen to point out that this electrification process could also be applied to other old models in future, including the Type 2 van.

Related posts:
A 1980s Beetle-inspired Up! limited edition
The Volkswagen e-Up! gets a facelift

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