I love the distinctive LED daytime running lights in the bumper of the VW E Up!. The upper engine cooling air slot between the headlights and the VW logo is also fully covered by a chrome trim strip because narrow air intake slots above and below the licence plate suffice to cool the E Up!’s drive system (many other EVs are water cooled).
The E Up! can reach a top speed of 85mph, powered by an electric motor with a peak power output of 60kW (40 kW continuous power), which develops 210 Nm maximum torque. The driver activates forward or reverse gear by pushbutton on the centre console. The car’s battery capacity of 18kWh enables a range of up to 85 miles, whilst the batteries are located in the car’s underbody, with all key drivetrain and ancillary components housed in front in the 'engine' compartment.
The E Up! goes on sale in 2013 and will give the Renault Zoe (on sale next year) some competition.
