Concept Cars
EcoRacer
Volkswagen is presenting a prototype that could well make history as the most economical sports car of its time. Its basic data: average fuel consumption of 3.4 litres for 100 km, a top speed of 230 km/hr. Its name: EcoRacer. Thanks to its carbon-fibre (CFP) bodywork, this sports car weighs in at only 850 kilograms, and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/hr in just 6.3 seconds. Powered by a newly developed 100 kW turbo-charged diesel engine of the next generation, it offers a forward-looking synthesis of austere economy and impressive performance. Surprisingly, the objective of development was not to break records, but rather to create a research vehicle that united the elements of economy and performance under one stylish roof.
Tight proportions
The styling of the bodywork, with its new sports-car front end, LED headlamp and rear-light systems and powerful lines, demonstrates that even very economical cars can attract attention wherever they appear.
Fully functional
The EcoRacer is a versatile all-rounder: as soon as a door is opened, the roof wing above it swings up, giving optimal access. The entire T-bar roof is removable. Even the rear hatch can be removed. And, last but not least, the frame of the windscreen can be exchanged for a module with a short, racing windshield. This makes the EcoRacer, firstly, a coupé, secondly, a roadster and, thirdly, a speedster.
CFP bodywork
As the mainstay of the EcoRacer, a CFP (carbon-fibre reinforced plastic) bodywork was developed that was both light and stiff. Structurally, it is a CFP polycoque (the safety structure embraces room for two persons) with roll bar, CFP crash elements and a CFP skin. The bonnet, boot-lid and doors are also made of CFP, as are the roof elements.
A coupé
The door locks of the EcoRacer open electromechanically. This not only releases the door catch - via Keyless-Entry-and-Go system - but also swings the associated roof wing, so as to optimise the entry and exit. These roof sections and the so-called T-bar, can be removed completely and stowed behind the seats.
A roadster
In a matter of minutes, the entire roof structure including the windows can be removed or converted. At the same time, the side elements of the front wings between the front wheel and the door hinge are taken out. The effect of the partially free-standing tyres has dynamics all of its own.
A speedster
A special catch in the area of the A column is simply released, to allow the windscreen with frame and the upper dashboard housing to be taken off. In place of this module, a minimalistic windscreen with its own dashboard cover is inserted. The result is a speedster in its purest form.
Add to this futuristic styling elements, a light and athletic running gear, and new-generation TDI engines ( that can develop 100 kW / 136 PS at 4000 rpm), and you have a car that's almost too good to be true.
