Volkswagen recently rolled out its new hyper-efficient XL1, and the stats are mighty impressive. It's a lightweight two-seater designed with a sharp focus on returning superior fuel economy. Volkswagen has learned plenty of new engineering tricks over the course of the development of the XL1.
Now comes word that the automaker may be looking to ply those tricks into the development of a high-performance machine. Is there a super lightweight sporting variant of the XL1 on the horizon? It seems the answer might be yes and no.
According to CAR, Volkswagen is taking a look at what they might be able to produce based on the knowledge gained from producing the XL1. This includes carbon-fiber composite monocoque construction, aerodynamic shaping, and the ability to shave massive amounts of weight.
The XL1, after all, is a sleek two door that weighs in at just 1,735 pounds. Now imagine around that much curb weight being pushed by more than a two-cylinder diesel and an electric motor. The resulting car, internally being called the XR1, could push production car power-to-weight figures to new heights.
It's wonderful to hear that efficient technology could find a way to make sports cars more exciting. Rumor has it that the XR1 could be poised to take on such performance icons as the Porsche 911. Power would come from the VW 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder unit, which would allow the XR1 to blast from 0-60 miles per hour in under 5 seconds while also returning stellar fuel economy.
Keep your eyes and ears open for more on this one, we know we'll be paying close attention for any updates on the XR1 project.
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