Volkswagen reveals its new e-up!

Volkswagen's new e-up! has been unveiled ahead of its fair premier at the International Autoshow in Frankfurt in the autumn, writes Trish Whelan.

The car is the first all-electric Volkswagen.

The four-seater - which operates with nearly zero noise - has a driving range of 150km.

Volkswagen say it is a car for daily use in the city, but also ideal for commuters or as a second car. It can handle distances of up to 150 km, and can be recharged to as much as 80 percent of its energy storage capacity within 30 minutes. The port for charging the battery is hidden behind the 'fuel door'.

The small car is powered by an electric motor with 60 kW / 82hp peak power. Continuous power is 40kW/55hp. Maximum torque of 210 Nm is available from start and the car accelerates from 0-100km/h within 14 seconds.

The e-up! comes with machine-polished 15-inch alloy wheels, Volkswagen emblem s with blue backgrounds and an e-up! logo at the rear. The interior features light-grey seat covers with blue top-stitched seams.

It is expected to go on sale in Ireland in early 2014