The original Volkswagen Bus may be several decades old, but its shape remain relevant and there’s no better way to make the internals relevant than electrifying it. Previously, VW melts retro design of a Type 20 bus with technology and a 1972 Volkswagen Type 2 Bus was given the e-Golf powertrain.
Today, there’s one more to add to the list: the Volkswagen e-BULLI Concept Vehicle. What’s exciting about the Volkswagen e-BULLI Concept Vehicle is, it is more than a one-off. In other words, you can get your hands on one.
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles have partnered with eClassics GmbH & Co. KG to offer T1 concessions and T1 complete vehicles in the e-BULLI style.
This particular example is a classic 1966 T1 Samba Bus, comprehensively restored, but ‘classic’ is only in the aesthetic. Under the rear hood, it is powered by VW’s latest electric car modules which bestowed with 61 kW (82 HP) of power – nearly double the horsepower of the original fossil fuel-powered engine.
82 ponies may not sound like much, but this people mover has 212 Nm (156 lb-ft) of torque, which twice that of the original. The electric motor and gearbox (that’s a single speed gearbox, btw) are, like its original, found at the back.
A 45 kWh lithium-ion battery system provides it with over 200 kilometers (124 miles) per charge. Granted, 124 miles isn’t a lot for a vehicle that will be potentially used it for road trips, but at least its combined charging system (CCS) socket totally supports fast charging, allowing it to be charged up to 80 percent in 40 minutes.
With a new drivetrain, it also has a higher top speed, topping out at an electronically limited 130 km/h (80 mph) – 25 more kph over the original.
Beyond the drivetrain, the Volkswagen e-BULLI Concept Vehicle also received an enhanced chassis, along with redesigned 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.
The exterior and interior has also given a makeover. But TBH, the modern touches may not appeal to staunch classic VW bus lovers. Just saying…
Now for the good news. eClassics is now offering the T1 conversion, complete with redesigned front and rear axles, at prices starting from €64,900 (about US$69,405). Not a fan of T1? T2 and T3 conversions are available too. For more information, you will need to get in touch with eClassics GmbH & Co. KG.
All image courtesy of Volkswagen Group.
