July 3, 2020

Text: Annie Block

e-Bulli is Volkswagen’s Eco-Update on an Old Classic

The e-Bulli masquerading as the 1966 T1 Samba Bus. Photography courtesy of Volkswagen of America.

When you see the two-tone van, you can almost hear the Beach Boys singing. Now, the 1966 Volkswagen T1 Samba Bus has a whole new way to get around. The e-Bulli concept car merges the iconic vintage vehicle with 21st-century sys­tems, notably an electric motor that runs on a lithium-ion battery and produces zero emissions during its 125-mile charge. Further, the e-Bulli goes 80 MPH (the T1 only 65) and has LED headlamps, leather and wood finishes, and a clear, large folding roof. It’s only available in Europe for now, but electric conversions of existing T1’s are possible.

Orange accents brighten up the white interior. Photography courtesy of Volkswagen of America.
Swap the gas pump for a charging port. Photography courtesy of Volkswagen of America.
The e-Bulli’s fine leather interior. Photography courtesy of Volkswagen of America.

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