A 1966 VW switches on under e-Bulli scheme

An electric concept e-Bulli based on a 1966 T1 Samba bus (Kombi) has been produced by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles (VWCV).

The concept equipped with the drive system components of the latest VW electric vehicles was to have its world premiere at the now postponed Techno Classica 2020 in Germany in late March but is being presented virtually.

The combination of high-end classic and high-tech EV will be available to buy with VWCV partner eClassics planning to offer T1 conversions and T1 complete vehicles in the style of the new e-Bulli.

It started with the idea of switching an historic Bulli over to a drive system producing zero emissions.

VWCV engineers and designers formed a team along with drive system experts from Volkswagen Group Components and the eClassics company, which specialises in electric car conversions.

As the basis for the future e-Bulli the team chose a T1 Samba bus produced in Hannover in 1966, which prior to its conversion spent half a century on California’s roads.

The 32kW four-cylinder boxer engine gave way in the e-Bulli to a silent VW electric motor delivering 61kW with 212Nm torque from its 45kWh capacity lithium-ion battery through a one-speed gearbox.

The automatic transmission’s selector settings (P, R, N, D, B) are shown next to the lever positioned within a console between the driver and front passenger, and in B the driver can vary the degree of energy recovery when braking.

The e-Bull can do 130km/h (electronically limited) and has a 200km range.

A power electronics system in the back of the vehicle controls the high-voltage energy flow between the electric motor and the battery and in the process converts the stored direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC). In addition, the on-board electronics are supplied with 12 volts via a so-called DC/DC converter.

As in the new ID.3 and future ID.Buzz, the high-voltage battery is housed centrally in the vehicle floor which lowers the centre of gravity and improves driving characteristics.

CSS enables charging to 80% power in 40 minutes at fast-charging points.

The chassis has also been redesigned, including multi-link front and rear axles with adjustable shock absorbers and coilover struts, plus a new rack-and-pinion steering system and four internally ventilated disc brakes.

A two-tone paintwork comprises ‘Energetic Orange Metallic’ and ‘Golden Sand Metallic Matte’.

New round LED headlamps have daytime running lights, while LED charge indicators at rear signal to the driver walking how much battery charge is available.

The eight-seat interior has a new automatic transmission selector lever positioned within a console between the driver and front passenger seat.

The floor is solid wood, the electrified Samba Bus taking on a maritime feel, with a large panoramic folding roof included.

Via Volkswagen ‘We Connect’ the e-Bulli driver can get information online by smartphone app or via a PC and a corresponding web portal such as on remaining charge time, current range, kilometres travelled, trip times, energy consumption and recuperation.

A retro-style radio is equipped with cutting edge technology such as DAB+, Bluetooth and USB.

The T1 conversion, complete with redesigned front and rear axles, is provided at prices starting from 64,900 euros.

T2 and T3 conversions are being offered by eClassics too, the company also able to issue qualified dealers with a ready-to-fit parts kit.