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With its combination of a Volkswagen TDI® Clean Diesel engine, an advanced electric motor, and a seven-speed Direct Shift Gearbox® (DSG®), the Up! Lite is an innovative hybrid capable of up to 70 mpg on the highway, with room for four adults.

The Up! Lite, shown in the photo below, together with the New Beetle Final Editions, Volkswagen’s full collection of TDI® Clean Diesel models, and other industry-leading vehicles and automotive technologies, were on display at the Auto Show.

“Volkswagen aims to be at the forefront of every level of automotive design – from the creation of an idea all the way to consumer experiences with the final product,” said Stefan Jacoby, President, Volkswagen of America, Inc.

“The Up! Lite stands at the pinnacle of that devotion, as a clear representation of what we believe is the standard by which all other hybrid vehicles will be judged. It integrates decades of research and heritage that can be found in both today’s Volkswagens, along with those that will be available to consumers in the near future, via the Volkswagen New Small Family of vehicles.”

The Up! Lite Concept Car

At the heart of the Up! Lite is Volkswagen’s all-new hybrid power train consisting of an 0.8-liter, two-cylinder TDI® Clean Diesel engine, and an electric motor that acts as the vehicle’s starter, alternator, and E-drive unit. On its own, the 0.8L engine produces 51 horsepower and up to 88 lbs.-ft. of torque. The electric motor, with its 13 additional horsepower, can be used to boost the TDI® engine when needed, provide valuable regenerative braking, and even propel the Up! Lite on its own. The seven-speed DSG® transmission ensures the driver has access to the full power range whenever needed, and allows for a 0 to 60 mph run of 12 seconds, a top speed of 100 mph, and the exceptional fuel economy rating of 70 mpg.

The Up! Lite’s superior efficiency is also a result of lightweight aluminum and carbon fiber elements throughout, and an aerodynamic exterior, which comes dressed in a truly unique Liquid Blue Metallic paint to match the car’s fun and futuristic feel. The hatchback carries a low, lengthened profile that starts up front, continuing with a broad shoulder section, and a thoroughly clean profile. Side cameras stand in place of traditional outside mirrors, and 18-inch carbon fiber and aluminum wheels give a hint of sports car-like appeal. Inside, passengers are welcomed with an intuitive touchscreen and hand motion sensors for climate controls, Internet connectivity, telephone, multimedia playback, and more. Three cameras take over for the more common rearview mirror, and an easy folding rear seat promises extra storage space.