VW E-Bulli Is a Crossover Between a High-End Classic and an All-Electric Vehicle

This is where hippie meets electric.
Fabienne Lang

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles' (VWCV) new e-BULLI all-electric vehicle is a stunning crossover between a classic 1966 minivan with all the latest drive system components of a modern VW electric vehicle, according to a press release

Everyone probably knows the charming VW Bus, which was first introduced in 1950 and quickly became a symbol of the hippie movement, earning legendary fame. Producing zero emissions, the e-BULLI concept vehicle is based on the 1966 T1 Samba Bus that's been entirely restored. 

The vehicle was meant to take to the stage at the Techno Classica 2020 in Essen, Germany, but had to be unveiled virtually instead in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

From old into new

VWCV engineers formed a team along with drive system experts from Volkswagen Group Components, and the eClassics company to switch an iconic Bulli into a system that produces zero emissions. They knew they wanted to use a T1 Samba Bus and change it so that it uses the Volkswagen Group's latest electric drive system components.

It looks so good that it makes you immediately get one for yourself. Good news: One point VWCV wants to make clear is that the e-BULLI will be available to buy for real, and isn't just a pretty virtual reality tour. 

VW E-Bulli Is a Crossover Between a High-End Classic and an All-Electric Vehicle
The new e-BULLI, Source: Volkswagen

Its specs

The e-BULLI is fitted out with a silent VW electric motor with 61 Kw (83 PS). With a maximum torque of 212 Nm, the new and improved drive has more than doubled its force compared with the original 1966 engine, which had 102 Nm. So now there is a silent cruiser that combines zero emissions with a classic Bulli style. 

VW E-Bulli Is a Crossover Between a High-End Classic and an All-Electric Vehicle
The front section of the e-BULLI. Source: Volkswagen

The top speed is 130 kph (80 mph), which is a bump up from the original Bulli's 105 kph (65 mph). It's kitted out with a lithium-ion battery with a usable energy capacity of 45 kWh.

VW E-Bulli Is a Crossover Between a High-End Classic and an All-Electric Vehicle
The e-BULLI allows lots of natural light in and is really spacious, Source: Volkswagen

All of the e-BULLI's standard parts are made by the Volkswagen Group Components in Kassel, Germany. All in all, it's a great-looking vehicle that's good for the environment.

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