An article published by the New York Times describes a new Volkswagen concept car, the L1, that will be the most fuel-efficient vehicle on the road when it is released in 2010. It is predicted that the two-seater will get between 160 and 220 miles per gallon, which is three to four times more efficient than the Prius.

The L1 is a hybrid that runs on a diesel engine and an electric motor.  The incredible gas mileage is made possible by the vehicle’s unique structural design in addition to its electric motor.  For instance, the seats are arranged one in front of the other to dramatically reduce the car’s width.  This alternation, in combination with its teardrop shape, covered rear wheels, hatch door, and non-traditional side mirrors, makes the L1 highly aerodynamic.  By reducing the drag on the car’s body, Volkswagen engineers were able to reduce the draw on the engine.  The carbon fiber-reinforced body, small gas tank and engine, and overall small size reduce the car’s weight, making it even more fuel efficient.  The stupendous gas mileage alone could make the L1 a new trend in fuel efficient cars.