1972: The pioneer – T2 Elektro Transporter
The first fruit of this research work was a T2 Transporter in 1972. The project was developed in conjunction with Bosch, Varta and RWE. The Elektro Transporter was powered by a DC motor fitted in the rear of the vehicle and delivered a continuous power rating of 16 kW (22 hp). Lead batteries were used as the power source. They were fitted in the floor of the vehicle and weighed 850 kilograms – more than a Beetle at the time. Due to the necessary reinforcement given to the floor assembly and chassis, the T2 Elektro Transporter weighed in at a good 2.2 tons. Volkswagen built this T2 as a production model over a period of several years in a total production run of about 120 vehicles, available with various bodies.