New VW e-Golf has 125-mile range 21 | 11 | 2016
VOLKSWAGEN HAS LIFTED the wraps from its second generation all-electric e-Golf, boasting a longer range, more power and more features … all while still emitting zero emissions. (Related: 2017 VW Golf revealed).
The 2017 model also benefits fro styling tweaks. At the front, the side extensions of the blue trim strip of the fully closed-off front radiator grille, which is characteristic of the zero-emission model, transition into winglets that run into the new LED dual headlights. The winglets are framed by the LED daytime running lights.
The rear also get s a new look. Along with the new bumper, the new full-LED tail lights define the design. The top version of the lights has animated indicators. This version can be recognised by a narrow strip of translucent white LEDs that turns orange when indicating.
This version of the tail lights is also distinguished by a new transition between the LED tail lights and LED brake lights when braking.
The German giant says the newcomer will be capable of covering up to 125 miles or more in everyday driving on one battery charge. That is though dependant on driving style and the use of air conditioning.
The new range represents an extension in mileage of around 50%.
Its driving range in the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) is up to 187 miles (300km). In the USA, the “estimated real- world driving range” was measured as 125 miles (EPA).
The 2017 e-Golf uses a new lithium-ion battery whose energy capacity has been increased from 24.2kWh to 35.8kWh, and can be charged to 80% capacity within an hour at a CCS charging station (DC, 40kW).
But if you charge it overnight or during the work day from a wallbox (AC,7.2kW), the battery will be fully charged to 100% capacity in under six hours.
The new e-Golf also develops 15kW more power than the first version of the e-Golf, topping out at 100kW. In addition, maximum torque of the electric motor has been boosted from 270Nm to 290Nm.
VW has also improved the performance of the new e-Golf. The four-door hatch now covers the 0-62mph sprint in 9.6 seconds (previously 10.4s), and its top speed has been increased 6mph to 93mph.
And while the new model is the world’s first electric car with gesture control, and has been fitted with fully digital instruments, Volkswagen has also extended the range of assistance systems.
These include pedestrian monitoring for Front Assist with City Emergency Braking, Traffic Jam Assist (semi-autonomous driving up to 40mph), and Emergency Assist (automatic stopping function in case of medical emergency of the driver).
Related: VW cream of crop for McQueens
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Jim McGill