Considered to be the world’s most efficient and technologically advanced car, the first Volkswagen XL1 in the Middle East was today, handed over to Mr Ali Murad Behbehani in an official ceremony with Mr Jens Mueller, from Volkswagen Middle East. The revolutionary XL1 model, originally a visionary concept from Volkswagen in 2002, has become a reality with just 250 models manufactured. Commenting on the arrival of his new and rare vehicle, Mr Behbehani said, “Volkswagen is a leader in innovative technologies and the Volkswagen XL1 is proof of their dedication to develop vehicles that can offer complete driving pleasure and yet, remain kind to the environment. I am extremely pleased to be in receipt of the XL1, the first in the Middle East”.
The XL1 is a statement in a commitment to deliver vehicles that offer a combination of fuel efficiency and driving pleasure, the XL1 succeeds on every count. A high-tech lightweight design, perfect aerodynamics and a plug-in hybrid system — consisting of a two-cylinder TDI engine, e-motor, 7-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG) and lithium-ion battery — all make it possible for the new XL1 to defy the laws of physics.
Thomas Milz, Managing Director, Volkswagen Middle East, said: “The development of the XL1 was essential to the Volkswagen brand — it was a project which brought together all elements of the group’s expertise in research and development, allowing the technology learned to further enhance our product line-up.
The arrival of the first Volkswagen XL1 is an absolute honour and I could not be more pleased, to hand over what can only be described as glimpse into the future of automotive technology, here today.”
Thanks to its plug-in hybrid system, the two-seater XL1 can also be driven for up to 50 kilometres locally in pure electric mode, meaning zero emissions at the point of use. The XL1 is an automotive hero that follows pure sports car design principles: low weight (795 kg), perfect aerodynamics (Cd 0.189) and a low centre of gravity (1,153 mm high). This gives the efficient Volkswagen model the ability to cruise on the road at a constant speed of 100 km/h using just 6.2 kW / 8.4 PS. The XL1 holds 10 litres of fuel and a battery capacity of 5.5 kWh enabling 500 km of total range