Kyle's Corner (FYI) Can Volkswagen Bring the 261 MPG XL1's Cost Down to Earth?

A ride in Volkswagen's XL1 prototype lets the driver know that it is not a dream but the real thing.

First, you lift the carbon fiber gullwing door. Then, you step over the wide rocker panel and lower yourself into the comfortable bucket seat. Next, you press the start button and you notice many switches, controls and interior pieces from a late-generation Golf. Furthermore, place the gearshift into 'D', lift off the brake pedal, and press on the accelerator to move the XL1 into traffic.

To enhance fuel efficiency, the XL1 is equipped with a louvered rear panel in place of a rear window. The cars sits as low as a Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder and it has small rear view mirrors in the door panels.

The XL1 is powered by a .8-liter 47 hp turbo diesel providing 89 ft. lb. of torque combined with a 27 hp 74 ft. lb. electric motor. Thus, a total of 74 hp and 163 ft. lb. of torque is available. The transmission is a 7-speed twin-clutch automatic. The car's curb weight is 1,750 lbs. When these components are all added together, the car's 0-60 time is 11.9 seconds and the fuel mileage is an impressive 261 mpg!

Volkswagen claims that the car's lithium-ion batteries can be recharged with a 360-volt recharger (the voltage used for many European washing machines) in 30 minutes and in 60 minutes with a 240-volt recharger.

The question is not if the XL1 can obtain the 261 mpg, but if Volkswagen can bring this light weight carbon fiber car's approximately $300,000 price down to earth. Might Volkswagen consider building the car using less costly plastic panels?

Volkswagen has promised that the XL1 will be delivered for sale. I say we cannot see it and other high fuel mileage vehicles soon enough!

Kyle Busch is the author of "Drive the Best for the Price..." He welcomes your comments or car questions at his auto web site: www.DriveTheBestBook.com . Follow Kyle on Facebookand Twitter.