LA Show: New VW Up! Lite Concept Claimed to be the World's Most Fuel Efficient Four-Seater at 96mpg, May Base Production Model

This here is Volkswagen's fifth conceptual take on the Up! city cars and it made its world debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show today. The Up! Lite is a diesel-electric hybrid concept that is based on the German firm's forthcoming family of small family cars. Volkswagen claims that the Up! Lite is the most fuel efficient four-seater in the world as it consumes a mere 2.44 liters of diesel per 100 km, which is the U.S. equivalent of 96.4mpg [corrected].

The three-door hatchback's hybrid drivetrain consists of a 51HP 0.8-liter three-cylinder turbo diesel engine, a 13HP / 10kW electric motor and a 7-speed dual clutch DSG transmission. Furthermore, the Volkswagen is also equipped with a Stop-Start system.

Volkswagen says that when necessary, during a quick passing maneuver for example, the TDI diesel engine and electric combine for a total power output of 65HP / 48 kW.

The company announces that the concept has a top speed of 160 km/h (100 mph) and accelerates from standstill to 100 km/h in 12.5 seconds (0-60 mph in 12 seconds).

At 3.84 meter long, 1.40 meter tall and 1.60 meter wide, the Up! Lite is slightly smaller than a Polo, however, it weighs in at only 695 kilogram or 1,532 lbs thanks to the extended use of aluminum and carbon fiber parts.

The three-door hatchback's styling is clear and is characterized by the broad shoulder section which VW says is reminiscent of the Scirocco (more like the Volvo C30 if you ask us) and the concave profile surfaces which in turn remind us of the BMW 1-Series (since we're reminiscing...).

On the other hand, the design of the concept model's cabin is far more futuristic and unique.

Volkswagen said that both technically and visually, the Up! Lite is a preview of the future and that since many of the components of the concept model are based on those of the future New Small Family, which is scheduled for market launch at the end of 2011, it could form the base for a future production model.

*On a side note, we would like to highlight the fact that, unlike most automakers such as Ford (especially, and at least when it doesn't concern dubious promotion methods...), GM, BMW, Nissan, Jaguar etc, that provide certain outlets (blogs, magazines, news sites) with press material well before the official presentation giving them an unfair time advantage over the rest of us, VW uploaded the full press kit on the Up! Lite on its official site ahead of time, simply noting that there was an embargo until 7pm CET. Hopefully more automakers will follow this example in the future.