The latest generation of the Volkswagen Caddy debuted more than two years ago, but the automaker has yet to unveil the plug-in hybrid variant, bearing the eHybrid name. The electrified minivan was caught by our spy photographers in two different body styles, with the fender-mounted charging port revealing the nature of its powertrain.
The spy shots are showing not one but two prototypes of the VW Caddy eHybrid, without any camouflage other than the charging port cover which doesn’t look like the final production part. The difference between the two white-painted prototypes is the wheelbase, with one being the regular five-seater Caddy and the other being the longer seven-seater Caddy Maxi.
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The MQB-based model has a 2,755 mm (108.5 inches) wheelbase in standard form, and a stretched 2,970 mm (116.9 in) in the Maxi variant, which also benefits from a longer rear overhang, offering space for up to seven passengers and their luggage. Notably, the longer body of the Caddy Maxi makes it more aerodynamic than the regular Caddy with a drag coefficient of 0.30 cd versus 0.33 cd. This could benefit the electric range of the plug-in hybrid, although the extra weight is also an important factor.
The electrified powertrain is rumored to be an evolution of the one that is currently used by numerous VW Group models including the T7 Multivan eHybrid. Sources claim that the 1.4 TSI engine could be replaced by the newer 1.5 TSI, even though the six-speed DSG gearbox is thought to be retained. An electric motor mounted between the engine and the gearbox could add some extra punch while being able to drive the vehicle in EV mode for around 50-60 km (31-37 miles), taking juice from a lithium-ion battery.
The VW Caddy eHybrid is expected to debut before the end of the year. We also expect a close reveal of its sister model, the Ford Tourneo Connect PHEV, which was caught testing just a few weeks ago with a similar charging port.
