Volkswagen is gearing up to compete with low-cost electric city cars like the Dacia Spring by introducing a new budget model, the company has announced. The German automaker has teased an image of a new entry-level electric city car, likely to be named ‘ID.1’, with an expected price tag of around £17,000 upon its release in 2027. This upcoming model is anticipated to utilize Volkswagen Group’s MEB-entry platform, offering a range of approximately 200 miles on a full charge.
Positioned as the successor to the e-Up, the new Volkswagen electric city car is poised to rival other affordable options such as the Dacia Spring and Citroen e-C3, along with budget offerings from China. Thomas Schafer, CEO of the Volkswagen brand and head of Brand Group Core, emphasized the brand’s commitment to making electromobility accessible to all consumers. He stated, “Our brand promise is: electromobility for all. This promise is now being fulfilled in the Brand Group Core.”
The ‘ID.1’ is just one part of Volkswagen Group’s larger strategy to introduce a range of cost-effective electric vehicles under the VW, Skoda, and Cupra labels. In addition to the electric city car, the plan includes the launch of two small SUVs and two hatchbacks. The Skoda Epiq and the Cupra Raval have already been showcased as part of this initiative.
Commenting on the project, Oliver Blume, CEO of Volkswagen Group, highlighted the company’s commitment to providing affordable and sustainable mobility options. He expressed, “As a group with strong brands, we continue to assume this social responsibility to this day. That’s why I’m pleased that we’re launching a future-oriented project. It’s about entry-level electric mobility from Europe to Europe.”
The upcoming ‘ID.1’ electric city car is expected to embody the same ethos as the e-Up but will be specifically designed as an electric vehicle from the ground up. With Volkswagen Group’s focus on expanding its electric vehicle lineup with affordable options, the ‘ID.1’ represents a step towards making electric mobility more accessible to a wider audience.
