Spy Shots: 2014 Volkswagen Microbus >> has revived this concept after trying once before in 2001 and hopes this time to make the transition from pure show car to production. Unlike the previous modern attempt, which used a conventional front-drive architecture and traditional gasoline-powered engine, the Bulli is available three ways. It can be powered by a 1.0- or a 1.4-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine, or be built as an EV propelled by an 85-kW motor that produces an impressive 199 lb.-ft. of torque. VW says the electric Bulli hits 62 mph in 11.5 sec. and has an electronically governed top speed of 87 mph. Range is up to 186 miles on a single charge of the lithium-ion battery.

Like the previous Microbus concept, the Bulli borrows styling cues from the original T1, although with less retro flare and more edge. The sharply creased character lines and boxy shape gives the Bulli a contemporary and airy feel despite the vehicle's rather compact dimensions. The concept rides on a 102-in. wheelbase and is 156 in. long. It stands 66 in. tall, 68.4 in. wide and has a generous 54-in. track front and rear.

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The Bulli blends both modern and classic Microbus design cues starting with the two-tone paint scheme with its distinctive V shape in the front dominated by a large VW logo. The headlamps are horizontally arranged LEDs, a layout that is repeated at the rear of the vehicle.

Unlike the original T1, which was powered by a rear-mounted flat-4, the VW Bulli concept features it engine (or electric motor) up front, where it will drive the front wheels. Also, the compact size means that the Bulli comes equipped with only two rows of seats.

Compact Footprint, Yet Room for Six

While the engine is at the opposite end of the vehicle than the original's, the VW Bulli retains a flat floor like the T1, which makes it easy to get in and out of the vehicle. The width allows for the use of front and rear benches that can accommodate three passengers each, for total seating of six.

Although it is inspired by a nostalgic design, the Bulli is truly state-of-the-art as evidenced by the Apple iPad mounted in the center console, which also serves as a multi-functional touch-screen for vehicle controls. The system provides on-board navigation and hands-free, Bluetooth cell phone connectivity.

Like the exterior, the interior design is clean and uncluttered, with a single semi-circular speedometer positioned directly in front of the driver. A second semi-circular binnacle houses a color multifunctional display, which is used to view and control (via steering wheel mounted switches) the nav system, telephone, trip computer and media center. The sound system is supplied by legendary guitar maker Fender.

The seating in the cabin is flexible—the rear seat can be stowed to greatly increase cargo capacity, and the passenger two-thirds portion of the front bench can be fully reclined.

While VW has promised a new Microbus, first with the 2001 concept and then later hinted that a similar compact van would be based off the rear-engine Up! Platform, this latest iteration may prove that the third time is the charm and make it into production.

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