The car itself is tiny, an example of nanotechnology stretched to real world lengths. At 3.47 meters (11.4 ft) long, but just 1.25 meters (4.1 feet) wide, extraordinarily narrow, and just over a meter (3.2 feet) in height, it's barely the size of a rowboat. To save weight, it is made of carbon composites and is not painted. The driver and passenger sit in tandem, like a jetfighter trainer, with the transversely installed engine centrally located in front of the rear axle. Overall the plastic bodywork has the aerodynamic shape of a teardrop. The basic layout is not completely new, with famed aircraft builder Messerschmitt building its quirky KR200 micro car in the early 1960s, made legendary by its appearance in the even quirkier movie Brazil.
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| If you like to fly you'll appreciate the 1-Litre Car's roomy cockpit feel, unless you're the lone passenger stuck in the back where it can get a little cramped. (Photo: Volkswagen) |
Although rather squat looking, if you like to fly you'll appreciate the 1-Litre Car's cockpit feel - part of the overall aerodynamic theme. Once the canopy is closed it is said to be stifling, but there is reportedly plenty of room as long as you recline well back in the seat. As for a ride-a-long passenger, it's said to be not too dignified. With room a little less generous than up front, the passenger's legs need to be spread to either side of the driver's chair. English noted that despite all this, the confinement doesn't feel too claustrophobic. I suppose in the spirit of global warming, this is the price needed to pay to achieve its 1-litre per 100 km (285 mpg) fuel economy.
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| The front wheels of the 1-Litre have been sheathed with all-over dish-type carbon fibre wheel caps. (Photo: Volkswagen) |
Besides the reduction in weight, other fuel consumption optimizations take place to help achieve its stellar results. To minimize frictional resistance, the running area of the engine's cylinder (yes just one) has been laser alloyed. Also, roller rocker fingers reduce friction in the valve drive, plus even the tension of the piston rings has been reduced.
The wheels have been sheathed, with those in the rear disappearing entirely behind their trim similar to Honda's Insight. The front wheels are equipped with all-over dish-type carbon fibre wheel caps. Even the side cooling air inlets only open when the engine needs cooling, and otherwise stay shut.