The Volkswagen ID.1 entry-level electric car will have a starting price of around €20,000 and will disrobe in 2027.
We hear that the spiritual replacement for the e-Up city car will be joined by similar equally affordable EVs from Skoda and Seat. The VW variant may even use the Up badge rather than the ID.1 moniker.
The news of the upcoming Citroen e-C3 rival was announced by VW CEO Thomas Schafer. He is also the head of the brand group Core. This is responsible for bringing the company’s volume brands together to increase efficiency, and make new cars more affordable.
Talking to AutoExpress he said “The future is electric,” confirming the entry-level EV project is going ahead. “In order for electromobility to become widespread, attractive vehicles are needed, especially in the entry-level segment. Our brand promise is electromobility for all. This promise is now being fulfilled in the Brand Group Core.”
He added that these affordable EVs will be made in Europe (Spain). He said that they will set standards in the entry-level segment regarding technology, design, quality, and customer experience.
The Volkswagen Group Head, Oliver Bulme, added that the first car for many people was from the Volkswagen Group. It has always stood for affordable mobility. “As a group with strong brands, we continue to assume that social responsibility to this day.”
Volkswagen has long voiced its plans to produce an entry-level electric car with a price aim of €20,000. However, Schafer said that producing an electric car at this price point has proven difficult because of rising energy prices and difficulty sourcing raw materials. He said that it is possible to build an EV with a range of 150km for around €20,000 but customers would reject it for insufficient range. He hinted that it may take political support for the ID.1 to get off the ground. However, he also suggested it may be produced as a loss-leader to entice new customers.
Whatever, expect a new low-cost platform for the vehicle and its stablemates. Also, don’t be surprised if there’s a cradle for a smartphone instead of a touchscreen.
Volkswagen suggested the final design will closely resemble that of the ID.2all concept unveiled in 2023.
However, the ID.2all is likely to go into production as a slightly bigger electric sib for the ID.1 (ID.2). It is due for a reveal at the end of next year with production in 2026. That EV is expected to cost around €25,000. There will also be a high-riding version of the ID.2. Both will utilise the MEB Entry platform that will also underpin a supermini from Cupra (Raval) and compact SUV from Skoda (Epiq).
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