Volkswagen is looking to improve the battery technology for its electric vehicles. Speaking to German newspaper Bild, Volkswagen Chairman Martin Winterkorn has confirmed that the company is close to new battery technology that will bring “a quantum leap for the electric car.” Although that’s probably a bit of a hyperbole, the company is researching a super-battery in Silicon Valley, California that is not only cheaper, smaller and more powerful, but will give provide a range of about 186 miles. It’s not quite a quantum leap considering the Chevrolet Bolt is aiming for a 200-mile range and the current Tesla Model S already trumps a 186-mile range, but if the battery is truly affordable, then it may lead the charge for cheap EVs. SEE ALSO: Volkswagen Mulls Single Battery Design for Electrified Vehicles In late April, Volkswagen revealed that it was hoping to scale down its electric powertrain production by creating a unified battery cell. If the new battery that Winterkorn is referring to can be used across the Volkswagen and Audi lineup and has a range of over 185 miles, then maybe it would warrant Winterkorn’s claim of being a “quantum leap.” Look for the new battery to make its way on the next-generation e-Golf. [Source: Autocar] Discuss this story at our Volkswagen Forum
Volkswagen have reported they are close to releasing a new battery they consider to be a “quantum leap for the electric car”. With its 185 mile range, it is cheaper, smaller and more powerful. The company has also announced plans to build an all-electric version of their popular Golf compact car in Germany. It does however face competition from the Chevrolet Bolt and the Tesla Model S both of which are aiming to trump 185 mile range so stating it a 'quantum leap' does appear a slight overstatement.