Volkswagen has applied for fresh name trademarks for a number classic models, but with an “e-” prefix suggesting that it might be about to give its blessing to electric conversions of several iconic models from the brand’s history.
Through June and July this year, the VW Group has submitted applications for e-Karmann, e-Kubel, e-Golf Classic, e-Beetle and e-Safari names.
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Of course, a trademark filing doesn’t confirm that all of these models will be produced. However VW has set precedent here; in September 2019 it applied to trademark the name e-Kafer, and at last year’s Frankfurt Motor Show, a fully electric, classic Beetle convertible of the same name was revealed.
In the case of the e-Kafer, the work isn’t carried out by Volkswagen themselves, but by classic EV conversion specialists eClassics. The official Volkswagen Group Components division supplies brand new electric drivetrains to eClassics. The same company, based just outside Stuttgart, has also produced the e-Bulli: a zero emission Type 1 Samba Bus.
Both of these cars are equipped with running gear from the latest e-Up. This consists of an 81bhp electric motor combined with a 36.8kWh battery which, in the case of the Beetle, allows for a circa-124 mile range.
Beyond the classic VWs up for EV convection, Volkswagen Group Components bosses have suggested previously that other classic models from within the Group’s portfolio of brands, like the Porsche 356, could be made available with similar conversions.
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