For those who consider the environment along with their vehicular needs, Volkswagen is pursuing several routes to creating electric powered vehicles. Earlier research has convinced the engineers at Volkswagen that the hydrogen fuel cell will not work successfully for an electric car.
While none are as yet on the market, 2011 is the hoped-for release date of the 2012 Touareg Hybrid diesel-electric hybrid. Partnered with Sanyo in developing a battery system that will provide adequate range with minimal weight involvement. After the initial release, Volkswagen plans creating hybrid versions of several of its most popular models such as the Golf, Jetta, and Passat.
The totally electric Volkswagen is also a thing of the future. There is the 2-door E-Up! concept car debuted in 2009. Being a front engine, front-wheel drive, the E-Up! will be powered by a 60 watt all-integrated drive motor. Production is expected to begin in 2013.
If you just can’t wait until the new model all-electric and diesel -electric hybrids come out from Volkswagen, there is the conversion option. It has become something of a fad to convert older Volkswagens, especially the Beetle, into electric cars. There are a variety of conversion kit designs available. As well as plug-in rechargers, solar power cells are another option for obtaining the electric fuel to drive your VW. For a modest price just about any Volkswagen model can be retrofitted to use an electric motor and battery pack. Some removal of liquid-fuel using equipment will be necessary to incorporate the electric option.
