CES: Volkswagen teases EV concept

VOLKSWAGEN has released a Tron-like teaser image of a concept vehicle that foretells the way cars are set to change in the future, ahead of its official debut at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas next month.

Little has been revealed about the “completely new” concept, including its name, technical information and anything more than a single obscured front-end shot, but the German car-maker says the mysterious car “marks the beginning of a new era of affordable long-distance electromobility”.

Illuminated details of the grille, VW badge, headlight and what appears to be a horseshoe daytime running light shine through a transparent veil, but the monochrome image reveals nothing about the model's layout or size.

Previous speculation says the concept previews a new light people-mover or small bus, but Volkswagen is remaining tight-lipped about official details until the United States unveiling in January.

If reports are on the money, the concept could be an evolved version of the Volkswagen Bulli concept, which surfaced at the 2011 Geneva motor show but was then canned earlier this year.

In addition to its electrified powertrain, the enigmatic vehicle will showcase advances in “interconnectedness” and offers a glimpse into what modern vehicles will become, according to Volkswagen.

Chairman of the Volkswagen passenger cars brand Herbert Diess will present the car at the CES as well as delivering a keynote address the evening before the show officially opens, focussing on electric cars and the latest in connectivity.

Volkswagen recently announced it would divert funding from some projects to resolve the unfolding diesel emissions scandal, but investments in electric vehicle development were safe, and some green projects would even receive increased support.

The CES is increasingly becoming a popular venue for car manufacturers to showcase new vehicles and technology, as automotive design and engineering becomes ever more dependent on cutting-edge electronics.

Last year Audi, Hyundai, BMW and Mercedes exhibited new technology at the show, and more car-makers are expected to join Volkswagen at the 2016 event, which kicks off from January 6.