Electric Bug available

Classic Volkswagen Beetles (dubbed Bugs) can now be electrified with an electric drive conversion kit available from Volkswagen Group Components.

A near-production version of the e-Beetle will be at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, Germany, September 12-22.

The individually tailored conversion is carried out by partner company eClassics in Renningen, near Stuttgart and uses parts from Volkswagen Group Components.

The electric drive, the one-speed gearbox and the battery system are based on the new VW e-up! which is not yet available for sale.

“The electrified Beetle combines the charm of our classic car with the mobility of the future,” VW
Group Components management board member Thomas Schmall says.

“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.

“We are also providing Beetle owners with a professional conversion solution, using production parts of the highest quality.”

Components from Kassel (one-speed gearbox) and Brunswick (battery system) work together in the e-Beetle as an electric drive that reaches performance peaks of 60kW.

The battery system is built into the underbody and consists of up to 14 modules, each with a capacity of 2.6kWh.

The lithium-ion battery modules deliver up to 36.8kWh.

The higher performance and the increased weight require adaptation and reinforcement of the chassis and the brakes.

Despite the new 1280kg weight, the e-Beetle accelerates to 50km/h in just under four seconds and to 80km in just over eight seconds.

The e-Beetle’s range is 200km and it can reach 150 km/h. The e-Beetle can do more than 150km after fast charging for around an hour.

VW says the concept can be transferred to other historic vehicles.

“We are already working together to prepare the platform for the Bus. An e-Porsche 356 could also be pursued in the future,” Schmall says.

Use of the modular electric drive matrix (MEB) is also being considered, creating additional opportunities around performance and range.

“We are looking forward to seeing many e-Beetles on the street soon,” say eClassics managing directors Dennis Murschel and Martin Acevedo.

Pricing and other details have yet to be announced.