Volkswagen Reveals 261-MPG Car, The VW XL1

After beginning life as a concept car over a decade ago in 2002, the Volswagen XL1 will finally become a production car. But not just any production car: When the XL1 hits the roads, it will become the most fuel-efficient and aerodynamic car in the world.

The numbers look pretty remarkable. Using a plug-in hybrid system, the XL1 is supposed to achieve an incredible consumption of just 0.9 liters of diesel fuel per 100 kilometers (or roughly 261 miles per gallon). Additionally, the XL1 can travel up to 50 kilometers on its battery power alone. And the coefficient of drag is a tiny 0.189, thanks to its super aerodynamic design.

The car uses a 47-horsepower, two-cylinder diesel motor connected to a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox, along with a 20 kW (27 hp) electric motor fed by a lithium-ion battery. The performance specs aren't exactly earth shattering, but still aren't all that bad. It'll take 12.7 seconds to go from zero to 60 mph, and the car's speed tops out around 100 mph.

Unfortunately, the vehicle only seats two people, seriously hindering its real-world practicality. And rumors have indicated that the XL1 will have a six-figure price tag, meaning you won't see too many of these on the road.

Still, the numbers are pretty incredible and hopefully preview future fuel economy with mass production cars.

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