The latest E-Bugster concept Beetle launched by Volkswagen, which is powered purely by electricity has been described as an “environmentally conscientious” vehicle.

The two-seat E-Bugster continues the latest Beetle’s sporty theme.

The electric-powered vehicle provides 85 kWh of power, which can propel it from 0 to 60 mph in 10.9 seconds, and yet offer a range of at least 110 miles from the 28.3 kWh lithium-ion batteries.

“Even in a country as large as America, that’s sufficient for the majority of commuters’ needs, while if the E-Bugster needs a top-up, a fast-charging function allows complete recharging in just 35 minutes.

“The quick charging is possible, thanks to a new Combined Charging System (CCS) that was developed in co-operation with Audi, BMW, Daimler, Porsche, Ford and General Motors/Opel.

“This allows charging via single-phase AC sources (for example a 120-Volt US or 230-Volt European domestic outlet) or via ultra-fast DC sources at specific charging stations.

“To succeed, this will require the development of a uniform industry standard for sockets and plugs and also for the charge controller, so that all charging types can be handled.

“Of course, the E-Bugster doesn’t charge only when plugged in: as soon as the driver’s foot leaves the accelerator pedal kinetic energy is transformed into electricity and stored in the battery.

“Applying the brakes increases the intensity of regeneration, a function that is indicated to the driver in the instrument panel.

“Other instruments include driving range and battery state indicators, and a meter that shows how much energy the driver is requesting via the accelerator pedal.

“At 4,278 mm long and 1,838 mm wide, the E-Bugster is the same length as a standard Beetle but 30 mm wider, while the new roof lowers the height by around 90 mm to 1,400 mm.  This helps to give the E-Bugster its more dynamic and sporty look,” the automaker said.