(March 14, 2013) WOLFSBURG, Germany — Volkswagen is writing a new chapter in mobility in presenting its first fully electric production vehicle: the new e-Up. The four-seat car — which operates with nearly zero noise — is being shown at today’s Annual Press and Investors Conference in Wolfsburg. The new e-Up, which is being built for the European market, impresses with its driving range of 93 miles and excellent everyday practicality.

Innovations that fascinate: the e-Up offers entry to a new pioneering vehicle concept with an electric drive and four seats. A car for daily use in the city — but it is also ideal for commuters or as an innovative second car. It can handle distances of up to 93 miles effortlessly. Afterwards, the e-Up can be recharged to as much as 80 per cent of its energy storage capacity within 30 minutes.

With nearly zero noise, the e-Up is powered by an electric motor with 60 kW / 80 peak horsepower — without any disturbing gearshift interruptions or powertrain noise. It accelerates from 0 to 62 mph within 14 seconds and reaches a top speed of 83 mph. The lithium-ion battery integrated in the underfloor area has a total energy storage capacity of 18.7 Kilowatt-hours (kWh).

The port for charging the battery in the e-Up is hidden behind the "fuel filling flap." As an option, the Combined Charging System (CCS) is used, which has been standardized by Volkswagen and other carmakers. It supports both DC and AC charging, so that drivers can easily charge their cars at most charging stations — regardless of the power sources or charging rates that they offer.

The styling of the e-Up is subtle and expresses high quality. One distinctive exterior feature is the curved layout of the LED daytime running lights in the front bumper. In addition, the front end, sills and underbody have been aerodynamically optimized.

The e-Up will make its show debut at the International Autoshow in Frankfurt this fall and following this will become available to order.  First United Kingdom customer deliveries are expected to take place from early 2014.