Volkswagen plans to introduce an entry-level EV for Europe by 2027

ABU DHABI: After Volkswagen’s failed attempt to collaborate with Renault on a 20,000 euro entry-level electric vehicle, the brand has announced that it will develop the much-anticipated model solo. Meanwhile, Renault is still planning to release a Twingo e-Tech successor that is similarly priced to Volkswagen’s entry-level EV. Volkswagen will unveil its budget-friendly EV lineup in 2027.

Following the unveiling of the ID2 all-concept last year, Volkswagen announced plans for a new entry-level EV. According to reports, the upcoming model has been named the ID1 and is inspired by the discontinued Volkswagen Up. While the Volkswagen Up was initially expected to launch in the Indian market, the plan was cancelled. There is a possibility that the new model will adopt the Up's name upon release.

The ID1 will prioritise cost efficiency over advanced features, diverging from the high-tech offerings of pricier Volkswagen models. It will compete with the Citroen eC3 and aims to build its reputation in a similar market segment.

Volkswagen's entry-level EV will join three other budget-friendly electric cars produced in Spain, including two smaller electric models from Cupra and Volkswagen, and the Skoda Epiq SUV. The brand has highlighted the challenges that automakers face while building smaller electric vehicles, including resource limitations and rising costs. Toyota expressed a similar issue earlier this year regarding the feasibility of affordable electric hatchbacks given the high cost of batteries.

The final version of the ID1 won't have a long-range battery or 200kW fast-charging capacity, as it has been designed as a pure city car. It will also not feature the same levels of connectivity functions and advanced autonomy as the more expensive Volkswagen models.

Source: Autocar

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