Charging into e-car era

Volkswagen follows its electric city car with an electric version of its grown-up Golf. The e-Golf boasts ample real world performance plus the convenience of a regular family hatchback. reports

Outwardly Volkswagen’s e-Golf looks like any other Golf, but this is the German firm’s latest foray into the world of electric motoring. Just like the e-Up! city car before it, Volkswagen’s aim has been to normalise the electric car experience. This means a conventional design and an equally conventional driving experience.

The combination of battery pack and electric motor results in a very Golf-like driving experience, with performance figures matching a middlerange petrol model, while the car’s multi-mode recharging system allows a choice of overnight, rapid and superquick (80% in around 30 minutes) scenarios depending on your daily routine and location. Space and practicality

Being a regular Golf, albeit a battery powered one, this e-Golf is no less practical or accommodating than its petrol and diesel powered cousins. Cabin space is generous, as is the amount of oddment storage available, while boot space is more than acceptable. You’d never know the car was electric until you turned the key – and heard nothing, silence. And on that note, VW is quoting the car’s range as ‘up to 118 miles’ which is about 100 miles in the real world. Behind the wheel

This electric Golf is every bit as good as its motor-driven stablemates when it comes to driver enjoyment, while the hushed progress you make is a pleasingly bonus.

Everything inside the car is conventional, with only a special gauge informing you of remaining charge. Brisk performance is easily achievable, while ride comfort and cabin refinement is top notch. Value for money

This e-Golf isn’t alone in the electric car market for being priced at a premium above a comparable diesel alternative. However, factoring in the government’s green car grant brings the Golf’s price down to a relatively acceptable level. That said, the car’s fuel – electricity – can be purchased for very little indeed, thus considerably offsetting the day- to-day running costs. Following on from the eUp!, the e-Golf includes a generous level of standard kit. And don’t forget, the e-Golf also attracts zero VED, is London congestion charge exempt, is eligible for free or reduced parking in dedicated charging bays around the country and affords business users favourable tax rates over that of a regular company car.