Volkswagen is gearing up to introduce its most affordable electric vehicle (EV) yet, previewing a sub-€20,000 (around NZ$36,600) model set to launch in 2027.
This yet unnamed entry-level EV will slot below the upcoming ID.2 and is expected to be the German brand’s most budget-friendly electric offering.
The teaser image above suggests a compact hatchback design, and while VW has yet to confirm the official name, the company recently filed a trademark for 'ID.EVERY1' with the European Union Intellectual Property Office, as first reported by CarMoses.
This could indicate the concept’s name, with the production model likely to be branded as the ID.1.
Built on MEB Small platform
Like the ID.2, the ID.1 will utilise Volkswagen’s MEB Small platform, a front-wheel-drive architecture designed for compact EVs.
Battery details remain under wraps, but given that the ID.2all concept boasts a 450km WLTP range and rapid charging from 10% to 80% in 20 minutes, the ID.1 could offer similar capabilities in a more affordable package.
Initially, Volkswagen explored a joint development with Renault to reduce costs, but the two manufacturers abandoned the collaboration in 2023.
Renault has since announced its own €20,000 electric city car, a revived Twingo EV, slated for a 2026 release - one year ahead of the ID.1. Renault CEO Luca de Meo described the failed partnership as a “lost opportunity.”
VW's vision
During an internal presentation, VW CEO Thomas Schafer reinforced the brand’s commitment to affordability, stating, "An affordable, high-quality, and profitable electric Volkswagen from Europe for Europe - that’s the Champions League of automotive engineering!"
The ID.1 is part of Volkswagen’s broader strategy to make EVs more accessible as Europe transitions away from internal combustion engines (ICE).
The official unveiling is scheduled for early March, when more technical details and design elements are expected to be revealed. Hopefully, we'll learn more about VW's release plans for the new EV, including whether it's destined for New Zealand.
