The Volkswagen E-Beetle is classic motoring with a modern twist

The idea of taking a classic car and fitting it with a modern electric powertrain is nothing new, but Volkswagen is getting in on the trend. 

Ahead of the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show, VW showed the E-Beetle on Thursday.

It's the original Beetle we all know and adore but with a lithium-ion battery and electric motor in place of the traditional internal-combustion engine. 

In fact, it's a pretty seamless transition since the electric running gear comes from another VW car already in production, the E-Up! subcompact.

With the E-Up! powertrain, the E-Beetle makes 81 horsepower with a 36.8 kilowatt-hour battery onboard. 

Weight, subsequently, increases to a far heavier 2,822 pounds compared to a traditional Beetle

Modern electric powertrains are hardly kind to vehicle curb weights, but VW said the added weight doesn't compromise quick acceleration.

Mashing the throttle will see the E-Beetle go from 0-31 mph in under four seconds, while 50 mph happens in about eight seconds. 

Times for an estimated 0-60 mph run weren't provided, but we'd eager 10 seconds is a good guess judging by the times needed for lower speeds.

Eventually, the electric Beetle will top out at 93 mph.

Keep clicking to see more of the Volkswagen E-Beetle.