Volkswagen has taken the wraps off a new version of its e-Golf electric compact and, as you'd expect, everything is bigger and better. Battery capacity, range, power, torque, speed and acceleration have all been improved and there are a host of new features to boot.
For starters, there's a new lithium-ion battery, the capacity of which has been boosted from 24.2 kWh to 35.8 kWh. This contributes to a significant and all-important 50 percent increase in range compared to the old model, with VW claiming 124 mi (200 km) on a single charge. That rules out doing any long distance journeys, but, of course, the e-Golf is really only designed for local commuting and getting around town.
The battery can be fully charged in six hours using a 7.2 kW on-board charger that is standard on both the SE and SEL Premium versions. Alternatively, a DC Fast Charger will charge the battery to 80 percent in an hour, but, while that's standard on the SEL Premium, it's an optional extra for the SE.
Power- and torque-wise, 19 hp (14 kW) and 15 lb-ft (20 Nm) have been added since the first version of the e-Golf. The 134 hp (100 kW) and 214 lb-ft (290 Nm) kicked out by the new model translate to a car that is 60 mph faster than its predecessor, with a top speed of 93 mph (150 km/h), and over a second quicker from 0-60 mph (0-97 km/h), at 9.6 seconds.
Beyond the headline figures, drivers will now benefit from a variety of new assistance technologies. As standard on both models, Forward Collision Warning with Autonomous Emergency Braking will give drivers audio and visual warnings in the event that the driver does not react to a pedestrian in front of the vehicle, and will apply the brakes if necessary. Those who punt for the SEL Premium, meanwhile, can also choose to have an optional Driver Assistance Package, which adds the likes of Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitor Plus, Lane Assist, Park Assist and Light Assist systems.
The 2017 e-Golf inherits the looks of the new gas-running Golf. A new front bumper, with accompanying new fenders, features LED Daytime Running Lights, while LED tail-lights adorn the revamped rear bumper. Inside, there is new décor and seat trim.
Virtual instruments are displayed to the driver on a 12.3-in color screen. Different profiles can be selected to show different types of information, such as on driving, navigation and assistance functions, while a 9.2-in display on the center console provides access to the vehicle's infotainment system. This can also controlled using gestures, such as hand swipes to navigate menus, change radio stations and skip songs.
Features like the e-Golf's battery charge status and air conditioning can be remotely accessed via the Volkswagen Car-Net mobile app for Android and iOS, while Car-Net App-Connect provides Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and MirrorLink smartphone integration, as well as other connectivity services.
The 2017 e-Golf premieres today at Automobility LA.
Source: Volkswagen