Volkswagen’s development team based the Ragster (ragtop + speedster) concept on the New Beetle convertible. Ragster’s most visible design cue was the drastically dropped roof with the shorten A-pillars and U-shaped roof frame. Though the car looked similar to the New Beetle production model, the fenders, bumpers, headlights, taillights and 19" aluminum rims were all newly designed. Racing car bucket seats, sports car type steering wheel with integrated engine start button (right side) and ragtop control (left side), were highlights of the custom cockpit. VW said a powerful gasoline engine or a high torque TDI could propel the Ragster if it were to go beyond the prototype stage.
Source: www.chicagoautoshow.com