Volkswagen offers insights about new all-electric compact SUV ID.4 via webcast

Volkswagen is taking forward its electric mobility strategy with a detailed insight into the brand’s first all-electric SUV, ID.4 during a webcast following the cancellation of the Geneva Motor Show. Following in the tracks of the ID.3, the countdown has already begun for the second model based on the new modular electric drive matrix (MEB).

The ID.4 will initially be launched with rear-wheel drive, while an electric all-wheel drive version will be added to the portfolio at a later date. The high-voltage battery is positioned near the center of the underbody to create a low centre of gravity and an optimum in terms of driving dynamics, along with an extremely well-balanced axle load distribution.

Ralf Brandstatter, Chief Operating Officer, Volkswagen explained “Just like the ID.3, the ID.4 will also come onto the market as a carbon-neutral vehicle. We will produce and sell the ID.4 in Europe, China and the US.”

Just like all other MEB models, the ID.4 offers plenty of interior space. The fully digital cockpit of the zero-emission SUV has been clearly structured. It is operated primarily using touch surfaces and intelligent, intuitive voice control. The SUV’s design is particularly aerodynamic. Brandstatter pointed out that, “The outstanding aerodynamics reduce the drag coefficient, and it will boost the ID.4’s range to up to 500 kilometres, depending on the drive package."

For Volkswagen, the ID.4 and ID.3 represent important milestones in the brand’s bid to become entirely carbon-neutral by 2050 – in line with the Paris climate agreement. Plans have been put in place to reduce the Volkswagen fleet’s carbon dioxide emissions by a third by as early as 2025.

 Volkswagen is currently investing one billion euro to electrify its model range while also offering an increasing number of hybrid vehicles. This is based on the fact that, just like electric powertrains, new mild and plug-in hybrid drives in large-scale product lines such as the all-conquering Golf will significantly help to reduce fleet emissions in the future.

The carmaker also showcased few other models during the webcast including the new Touareg R, powered by an efficient plug-in hybrid system. The battery capacity of the Touareg R with a top speed of 140 km/h in all-electric mode is designed to achieve zero emissions while covering daily commuting distances. Further Volkswagen highlights include the new Golf GTE, new Golf GTD and the eighth generation of the Golf GTI.