The E-Up! is a three-door hatchback which Volkswagen claims would be the "Beetle of the 21st Century." This is very much an indication that the concept would make production, although it will probably not happen until 2013 at the earliest.

At 3190mm long, 1640mm wide and 1470mm high, and having a wheelbase of 2190mm, the E-Up! is smaller than a Fiat 500. However, Volkswagen has still managed to fit four seats in the cabin. This is achieved by pushing the front passenger seat 50mm further in front than the driver’s seat. The E-Up! also has 60-40 split folding rear seats, with the boot capacity standing at 85 litres with the seats up, 180 litres with one seat folded, and 320 litres with both seats folded down.

The E-Up! is powered by an electric motor that can deliver a maximum power output of 80bhp, and a constant output of 53bhp, along with 210Nm of torque. Volkswagen says that this allows the E-Up! to go from 0-50km/h in 3.5 seconds, and 0-100km/h in 11.3 seconds, while reaching a top speed of 135km/h.

The electric motor is powered by a lithium-ion battery pack with 18kWh, which weighs 240kg. Total weight of the car, inclusive of the battery, is 1085kg. The E-Up! can be recharged using a standard 230V household plug, which takes five hours for a full charge. Using a charging station, an 80 percent charge can be achieved in just one hour.

The E-Up! is also equipped with solar cells on the roof that not only supply energy to the car's electrical system, but help to cool the interior when the vehicle is parked by supplying energy to the ventilation system.