Volkswagen L1–The 240 MPG Concept

Volkswagen’s new one liter concept not only gets close to 240 mpg, it’s also slated for development and close to production, according to the carmaker. Powering this uber-efficient little bullet is a two-cylinder 39 hp turbo-diesel paired with a 14 hp electric motor. A seven speed dual-clutch transmission handles shifting. To enhance aerodynamics, VW has placed the two seats in line and kept the dimensions long, slim and low, all factors which have helped provide its staggering efficiency numbers. The L1 weighs just 838 pounds and can go up to 100 mph, though these speeds drop the car’s efficiency down around 170 mpg. Sources close to VW have hinted that we might see this one as early as 2013.  [via Car and Driver]