Electric goes the classic Beetle. And it’s done by Volkswagen

YUP, there are more than a few classic electric-propelled Volkswagen Beetles out already — a YouTube search will confirm this. The jobbies vary from slapdash DIY level to near-factory spec. But this one here is different; it comes from Volkswagen Group Components itself. It’s legit.

The company, together with partner eClassics, are apparently pursuing what it calls “the subsequent electrification of the historic Volkswagen Beetle.” So the car’s conversion relies exclusively on new parts which the two companies have agreed on.

It’s eClassics which converts the Beetle into the e-Beetle. But the electric drive, one-speed gearbox and the battery system are all based on the new VW e-up!. The car puts out 60kW, or about 81hp, which is a lot more than what classic Beetles did. Its lithium-ion batteries are placed under the body, each making 2.6 kWh. These can be sufficiently charged in about an hour.

In the VW e-Beetle, you get two luggage compartments.

Despite the car gaining weight — it tips the scales at 1,280 kilograms — the e-Beetle accelerates to 50km/h in under four seconds and to 80km/h in around eight seconds. It can do 150km/h. Range is around 200 kilometers.

“The electrified Beetle combines the charm of our classic car with the mobility of the future. Innovative e- components from Volkswagen Group Components are under the bonnet — we work with them to electrify historically important vehicles, in what is an emotional process,” said Thomas Schmall, member of the board of management at Volkswagen Group Components.

More important, Schmall pointed out what VW and eClassics can provide is a “professional conversion solution, using production parts.”

This e-Beetle is no hobbyist job.