Hinting at the next step in group chief executive Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn’s ambitions to become the market leader in electromobility, the twin up! uses a 0.8-litre, two-cylinder diesel engine based on Volkswagen’s familiar 1.6-litre TDI, combined with an electric motor powered by a lithium-ion battery pack under the boot floor.

Fully charged, it will cover 31 miles on electricity at speeds of up to 77mph, after which the diesel engine is used to charge the battery. The result is CO2 emissions of 27g/km and fuel economy of 256.8mpg on the NEDC plug-in hybrid test cycle.

Exterior modifications include a 30mm longer front overhang to accommodate the drivetrain, a drag-reducing aerodynamic bodykit and narrow low rolling resistance tyres, while the interior includes a bespoke instrument panel and digital climate controls.

As yet, the twin up! isn’t confirmed for production.