Volkswagen to unveil first electric car for U.S.

Chris Woodyard | USA TODAY

LOS ANGELES -- Add Volkswagen to the nearly complete list of major automakers that have found a way to field an electric car for sale.

The first fully electric Volkswagen will debut next week at the Los Angeles Auto Show. It's an electric version of the Golf.

The e-Golf, as it will be known, will have a lithium-ion battery and 115 horsepower electric motor capable of going from zero to 60 miles per hour in 10.4 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 87 mph.

The 700-pound battery is good for range of 70 to 90 miles per charge. To make owners worry less about running out of juice, VW has an interesting roadside assistance program that will deliver the car to a nearby charger when they are within 100 miles of home. VW will also spring for a taxi ride home or to work if they decide not to stick around while the car recharges.

E-Golf will also be the first VW to have all-LED headlights when it goes on sale late next year.