Volkswagen previews upcoming entry-level electric model

LONDON: Volkswagen has teased a look at its upcoming compact electric vehicle due to be fully unveiled at the beginning of March.

Ahead of a production-ready model premiering in 2027, this early look showcases a compact car that will sit at the smaller end of the current Volkswagen range.

In a social media clip, both the Lupo and Up! – two of Volkswagen’s previous most-compact models – are shown preceding the arrival of the brand-new car.

Volkswagen is targeting an entry price of some US$20,800 (RM92,000) for the new model, which is predicted to only be offered with an electric powertrain, rather than with a petrol or hybrid alternative.

Volkswagen Passenger Cars CEO Thomas Schäfer said the new model would be “an affordable, high-quality, profitable electric Volkswagen from Europe for Europe. This is the Champions League of automobile manufacturing.”

The new model will be one of a number of compact models coming from Volkswagen, with the new-range process kicking off with the production version of the ID.2all prototype vehicle, which is expected to reach dealerships in 2026.

Like this new concept, the production ID.2all is targeting a low cost with Volkswagen stating a price of under US$26,000 (RM115,000). It would be based on the same MEB modular electric platform that has been used on other ID models, such as the ID.3 and ID.Buzz electric van.

Schäfer also said Volkswagen’s Wolfsburg plant would not be shuttered, stating that it would remain core to the German manufacturer’s processes.

“The Wolfsburg plant has a clear perspective for the future," he said.

“The agreed relocation of the Golf to Mexico will free up space for advanced technologies. In Hall 54, new production procedures will be introduced. We intend to produce the electric Golf successor on the new SSP platform there, as well as the high-volume electric T-Roc. This way, we will be making Wolfsburg the capital of our new all-electric compact class.” — PA Media