Preparations are continuing for the launch of Volkswagen's first electric vehicle (EV) in the UK and the German manufacturer has released a promotional video which informs of the virtues of EVs.
It is called 'The streets sound different. e-mobility by Volkswagen' and features the new e-up, which should be available in the UK from next month.
The video plays on the idea that EVs are not only emissions free, but are much quieter than diesel or petrol powered cars. As such, the e-up is fitted with a huge boombox that plays driving and engine noises as it works its way around the streets of Stockholm.
Consequently, the e-up attracts a lot of attention in the Swedish city – something it is sure to do when it comes to British roads.
Both the video and the car itself are inspired by Think Blue, which is Volkswagen's approach to ecological sustainability. The company explained that it is more than a mere concept, but a holistic approach that guides many design and manufacturing decisions to foster an environmentally compatible and individually sustainable ethos.
Think Blue has led to the development of high-efficiency automotive technologies, including alternative powertrains, new mobility concepts such as the Quicar car sharing scheme and the Think Blue factory initiative.
The e-up itself – like the- e-Golf – will be a completely EV version of a car that the motoring public are already familiar with. Volkswagen hope the promise of cheap running costs and zero emissions, coupled with the guaranteed quality the company represents will help move the EV into the mainstream.
EV technology and Think Blue design will allow the e-up to travel around with a genuine range of 112 miles from its 18.7Kw battery, which costs just £2.80 to charge – although this procedure still takes around nine hours to completely fill up the battery with juice.
Posted by Emma Grange