What's this all about?
A week ago we brought you news of the facelifted Volkswagen Golf line-up for 2017; today, the German company launches the equally updated version of its all-electric e-Golf model at the LA Auto Show in the States.
Right, so new lights and some interior tech?
To start with, yes. The bumpers have been subtly sharpened up and there are full LED headlights and tail lamps. Inside, it gets a bit more interesting, as the e-Golf gets the Active Info Display (a digital customisable screen that replaces the analogue instruments) as standard. It also gets the Discover Pro system, featuring gesture control, allowing Volkswagen claim that the e-Golf is the 'world's first battery-electric car with an infotainment system that offers gesture control as standard'.
Nifty. So is that it?
Actually, no. The biggest news comes from the electric powertrain, as Volkswagen has fitted a new lithium-ion battery with a higher energy capacity (up from 24.2kWh to 35.8kWh). Although a figure of 186 miles is quoted for the theoretical range on the mythical NEDC test, Volkswagen reckons most drivers should get 124 miles on a charge, which is apparently an increase of 50 per cent. The electric motor has been upgraded too, from 85kW to 100kW, while peak torque has also increased, from 270Nm to 290Nm. This has allowed the e-Golf to dip below ten seconds for the 0-62mph sprint, while the top speed has been increased a little.
Shane O' Donoghue - 17 Nov 2016