volkswagen: nils single seater electric car

‘nils’ single-seater electric car concept by volkswagen

the ‘nils’ concept by volkswagen is a single-seater electric commuter vehicle, to be shown at the frankfurt motor show 2011.

with an aluminum space frame, the vehicle weighs 460kg (1014lbs). its 25kW electric motor for a rear engine nonetheless sustains 130Nm of torque, powering from 0-100km/hr (0 to 62mph) in eleven seconds and with a maximum speed of 130 km/hr (81mph). a complete charge takes two hours using a conventional 230-volt electrical outlet, providing 65 kilometers (40 miles) of use.

the interior cabin includes displays for speed, range, and energy usage, as well as a portable touchscreen navigation and entertainment unit that fits into the vehicle’s A-pillar. the steering is completely mechanical.

the concept was developed with the german federal ministry of transport, building, and urban development, from the statistic that 74% of commuters living between berlin and munich driver fewer than 16 miles each day to work, and about 90% travel alone.

side view

detail on front and wheels

detail on trunk compartment

the vehicle charges from a standard 230-volt outlet or electric station

design sketch