Volkswagen has revived a unique hybrid: a bus and a railroad car
Volkswagen has unveiled an updated version of the Klv-20 with bus and railroad car elements. This model, which was used on German railroads from 1955 to 1970s, is now back on the rails.
The new version is called the Klv-20. It is based on the classic Volkswagen T1. The upper part of the hybrid retains the recognizable design, while the lower part is equipped with wheels for rail travel. The vehicle received a T1 Kombi van body and a Volkswagen industrial engine and a specialized rail chassis. A unique design solution was a hydraulic mechanism that allows one worker to easily turn the vehicle 180 degrees and return it to the rails.
As part of the modernization process, the iconic round headlights of the T1 were replaced with new ones that comply with railroad regulations. A red taillight was also added. In addition, the hybrid received a 4-stroke gasoline opposition engine and a 4-speed manual transmission with reverse gearbox. Power to the 550 mm diameter steel railroad wheels is transmitted through a pair of lateral swing axles with articulated joints. The braking system is represented by a pedal hydraulic shoe brake.
The body is attached to the steel chassis with rubber mounts and holds 3 upholstered seats for 7 seats. The rear 2 seats can be removed to make room for cargo. The Klv-20 is already running on the rails in central Germany. In the future, the hybrid will be added to the Volkswagen classic car collection in Hanover