Based on the petrol-powered up! supermini, the e-up features an 82bhp electric motor and lithium-ion battery, offering a range of 93 miles depending on ambient conditions and driving style. Eco and Eco+ driving modes cut the power output to 67bhp and 53bhp respectively and reduce the drain from on-board systems to extend the range.

Volkswagen will offer the e-up! with a home charging wallbox, capable of recharging the battery in six hours from flat. The e-up! is also one of the first cars to feature DC charging based on the new Combined Charging System connector which is likely to become the European standard. This allows an 80% charge to be reached in 30 minutes.

The car will be offered in one specification level, based on the High-up! petrol model, and includes DAB radio, heated front seats, cruise control and EV-specific navigation based on the Maps and More system. Battery and charging status, climate control, doors and lighting can be controlled remotely using a smartphone app.