Seat and the Government of Spain have started trials of a new urban transport concept based on Volkswagen’s Twin Drive plug-in hybrid powertrain. The idea is simple; electric motors are used for urban travel, and the clean diesel powerhouse kicks in for long distance or highway travel. Lithium-ion batteries placed at the rear of the vehicle provide enough juice to travel for 50km and after that a high-efficiency turbodiesel engine kicks in.

The electric motor provides power of about 35kW, and can allow for a top speed of 100 kmph. Volkswagen sees promise in the new technology, and the powertrain is undergoing tests in Germany as well. If the tests return good results, expect cars with the Twin Drive powertrain on the road soon.

Via: MotorAuthority395832