Volkswagen is preparing for a major refresh of its ID electric car range, which will launch in 2026. The main changes will be to the MEB platform, which serves as the basis for the brand's current electric cars.
Here's what we know
Development is led by Kai Grünitz, head of research and development at VW. He confirmed to Autocar in Los Angeles that the changes will focus on aesthetics, battery performance and cost reduction, as well as new features. He added that the design will “return to its roots” and be closer to what Volkswagen symbolizes in the minds of consumers.
The key model of this new era will be the production version of the ID 2all concept, a compact hatchback that will debut in late 2025 or early 2026. This car will be a sort of “relaunch” of the brand, Mr. Grunitz said. The design of this new product will be inspired by the legendary Golf models of recent years.
Volkswagen will also present the ID 2 crossover at the Munich Motor Show in September 2025. Grunitz confirmed that a sporty version of the ID 2 GTI is also under development. Transferring the DNA of the iconic GTIs to electric cars is a challenge, he said, but the result will “pleasantly surprise”.
At the same time, VW continues to work on the SSP (Scalable Systems Platform), which will become a universal basis for the entire model range, from compacts to sports cars. The partnership with Rivian plays an important role in this: VW plans to use the American company's experience in the field of software for electric cars.
As for internal combustion engine models, the new Euro 7 ecological standards force Volkswagen to reduce the range, but the Polo will remain in the range and will benefit from a major update in 2025.
Source : Autocar : Autocar
