When considering pure electric cars, do images of extremely futuristic designs and high-tech interiors with multiple large screens come to mind?
While many traditional car companies and emerging power brands are indeed crafting electric vehicles (EVs) that embody the future of automobiles with cutting-edge manufacturing and costs, there's no rule stating that EVs must start from a futuristic perspective.
Enter the Electric T1, a pure electric classic car that can outpace supercars on the streets!
In the early days of the Beetle factory, workers hastily assembled a simple cart to transport body parts, facilitating the movement of crucial components. During a visit to the Beetle factory, Dutch Volkswagen importer Ben Pon noticed this makeshift cart transporting body parts and saw its potential economic benefits.
Inspired, he sketched the idea for the T1 in a notebook, presented it to Volkswagen leadership, and soon after, the T1 became a reality.
Over 70 years of development later, the T1 has evolved into the T6. However, in 2020, thanks to the expertise of electric car conversion specialists, the Volkswagen e-Bulli emerged – an electric version of the classic T1 featuring a modern chassis and a range of over 124 miles on a single charge.
Externally, the e-Bulli maintains the iconic appearance of the classic Volkswagen T1 but receives a modern touch with an exclusive orange and gold paint scheme.
LED headlights and daytime running lights bring it in line with contemporary design trends, complemented by retro-style polished wheels featuring white tire paint.
Inside, the e-Bulli boasts several upgrades. The seats match the exterior color, and the dashboard, retaining the T1's styling, incorporates a trip computer display providing information on range and power.
The central control section, resembling a retro radio, houses modern features like DAB digital signal broadcasting, Bluetooth, and USB connectivity alongside subwoofer speakers. The classic "Wolfsburg" logo on the steering wheel pays homage to the T1 model.
Under the hood, a 45kWh lithium-ion battery pack and a compact electric motor from the Volkswagen e-Up power the e-Bulli, producing 82bhp and 212Nm of torque – more than double the output of the original 1.5-liter air-cooled engine in the classic T1 bus. The top speed has increased from 65mph to 81mph.
To accommodate the electric motor, Volkswagen redesigned the T1's chassis, incorporating new multi-link front and rear axles with adjustable dampers, ventilated disc brakes, and an upgraded steering system.
Larger wheels and tires enhance the driving experience. The e-Bulli supports 50kW DC fast charging, allowing 80% charging progress in just 40 minutes, according to VW.
In essence, the Electric T1, with its blend of classic charm and modern technology, showcases that the future of electric vehicles isn't limited to a sci-fi aesthetic but can seamlessly integrate into the timeless appeal of classic automobiles.
