Volkswagen Milano electric taxi concept unveiled

While the Milano is just a concept, VW expects to launch is first mass market electric car by 2013...

Volkswagen has unveiled its new Milano electric taxi concept at the Hanover Trade Show. The Milano, which is fitted with a lithium-ion battery pack, is being presented as a study into the viability of a mass-market, emission-free taxi powered by an electric motor.

With 115 horsepower from its electric motor, the Milano, which weighs 1,500 kilos and which can seat three people (driver and two passengers), can achieve a top speed of 118km/h. Driving range, with a full charge, is 300km and the batteries can be 80% charged in just over an hour.

Volkswagen expects to launch this mass market electric car by 2013.