VW Testing Secret Beetle

Newspaper Reporter Spots Electric Bug In
California POSTED: August 10/00

A Los Angeles Times auto reporter has spotted an electric-powered New Beetle undergoing top-secret testing in California. The joint project between Volkswagen and AC Propulsion was confirmed by the latter's vice-president, Alec Brooks, but he would not discuss it.

Equipped with power-monitoring instruments in the centre console, a charger plug beneath the fuel-filler flap, and skimpy racing seats making room for an under-seat battery pack, the electric Bug was, the driver told the Times, a second-generation prototype that drives an average 70 miles on a full charge with "plenty of power."

It is not known whether Volkswagen plans on building an electric New Beetle or if it's taking steps to meet California's 2003 zero-emissions mandate. The law will require all automakers with significant sales in the state to certify a small percentage of their passenger vehicles as producing zero emissions.

When the New Beetle was first shown as the Concept 1 showcar at the 1994 North American International Auto Show, VW hinted at an all-electric 50-horsepower production Bug. Since then, not much has been said or seen. Until now. With the competition already actively experimenting (witness: General Motors' EV1, Toyota's Prius, Honda's Insight), look for VW to join the electric fray soon.