A Ducati-engined version of the Volkswagen XL1 has been revealed. VW board chairman Ferdinand Piëch revealed that the eco car could be fitted with the high-performance engine from the Ducati Panigale superbike, creating a high-performance track or race car.

It has been reported that the XL Sport will be powered by a 1200cc engine which develops 187bhp at 10,750rpm and 91lb ft of torque at 9000rpm. It will be mated to a twin-clutch transmission.

Piëch revealed the XL Sport will be lighter than the 795kg XL1. The limited-run road car uses a two-cylinder, 800cc turbodiesel engine plus electric motors to produce 67bhp in total. The XL Sport is also expected to lose the closed-rear wheel design of the standard car.

Last year, Audi purchased the iconic motorcycle manufacturer. It was understood to be a personal ambition of Piëch.

Piëch revealed plans for the car during a lecture at the Vienna University of Technology, where he is an honorary professor.

The car is expected to be used as part of Volkswagen's motorsport activities in the future, and may also form part of a limited production run for customers.