VW set to pilot e-Golf test fleet in the U.S.

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A fleet of 20 pilot E-Golf BEVs are set to go stateside in April 2012

Data gathered during the trial period will be used in the development of future BEV technology

The E-Golf has a top speed of 84mph and delivers 199 pound-feet of torque

Volkwagen of America has announced that a nine-month pilot scheme is to start next month in the U.S., to evaluate a prototype electric version of the company's popular Golf model

The E-Golf implements a number of measures to maximize energy efficiency, including the ability to coast when the accelerator pedal is released, three-level regenerative braking and three driving modes

E-Golf hatchback BEV features a lightweight 85kW peak electric motor that is capable of accelerating from 0 to 60mph in 11.8 seconds

A commercially-available U.S. version of the E-Golf is penciled in for some time during 2014

The E-Golf is powered by a 26.5 kWh Lithium-ion battery pack made up of 180 cells spread over 30 modules

Test drivers will also be given an iPhone with a dedicated app pre-installed for remote monitoring of charge levels, and regulation of the car's internal temperature

Drivers will also be asked to test specific services designed for the E-Golf, including 200-volt charging stations that will be installed at the homes of those testing the vehicle

Article Summary

The fact that most major manufacturers are now investing serious amounts of time and money in battery electric vehicle (BEV) development is proof positive that an electric automotive future will soon be upon us. While some, like Mitsubishi and Nissan, are already leading the charge onto the driveways of more and more folks around the globe, others prefer to take a more considered approach. Such is the case with Volkswagen. After giving us a glimpse of its plans for an electric Golf back in 2010, the company has now announced that a nine-month pilot scheme is to start next month in the U.S., to evaluate a prototype electric version of the company's popular hatchback ahead of commercial production.

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