2015 Volkswagen E-Golf: Most Efficient Compact in EV Class
By Mike Garcia
Electric vehicles are becoming more prominent on the road. Range anxiety seems to be a remaining issue with the general public. The Volkswagen E-Golf can relieve some of that anxiety.
"The fully electric, zero tailpipe emissions e-Golf gets top marks from the Environmental Protection Agency116 combined MPGe puts e-Golf at head of compact electric vehicle (EV) classMPGe announcement reinforces e-Golf position as a fun-to-drive, no-compromise plug-in vehicleFully equipped e-Golf starts at $35,445Standard fast charging capability can allow 80 percent battery charge within 30 minutesHerndon, VA – Volkswagen of America, Inc. announced today that the compact, fully electric 2015 e-Golf has been rated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) at 126 city, 105 highway, and 116 combined Miles per Gallon of Gasoline Equivalent* (MPGe), and given a range of up to 83 miles. Compared to other compact electric vehicles (EVs), these numbers make the e-Golf the most efficient car in its class for the 2015 model year."
The average daily commute is nearly 50 miles per day. More range may be necessary in California, but an 80 mile range should cover most of the general public.
The Volkswagen Golf is known for being a practical commuter, while the GTI version adds some sportiness. The E-Golf is priced just above the GTI at $34,445.
Outside of the conventional 240v and 120v charging, Volkswagen a third option that charges the batteries up to 80% in 30 minutes.
"The e-Golf has a 7.2 kW onboard charger as standard equipment, enabling the EV’s battery to be recharged in any of three ways. With the installation of the optional 240-volt wallbox, charging the battery can take less than four hours. The e-Golf also offers a charging cable that can plug into any standard 110/120-volt electrical socket and charge the battery in roughly 20 hours. In addition, the e-Golf comes equipped with a standard Combined Charging System (CCS) which allows the car to use the SAE standard DC fast charging infrastructure (at select stations), bringing the battery’s state of charge to 80 percent in about 30 minutes. Any of these options help provide categorically lower ownership costs than fueling a traditional internal combustion engine.[via Volkswagen. 2014. 2015 Volkswagen E-Golf Recognized As Most Efficient Car in Compact EV Class. [Press Release] Retrieved from http://www.newspressusa.com/public/ViewPressRelease.aspx?pr=43279&pr_ref=4473]"
Increasing range, lower prices, and practical vehicles may make it easier for the public to adopt electrically powered vehicles.
The Volkswagen Golf is a great choice.