Electric vehicles

Electric vehicles

Volkswagen offers the e-up! and the e-Golf as full electric models. An entirely new generation of full electric vehicles is to be launched from 2020: the I.D. family. These cars will be based on the new Modular electric drive matrix (MEB); each of the new I.D. models has a range comparable with current petrol models. Their zero-emission powertrain consists mainly of up to 2 electric motors (front and/or rear), power electronics (to control the high-voltage energy flow between electric motor and battery) a transmission, and a flat high-voltage battery installed in a space-saving configuration in the floorpan. The first models will be the I.D. compact and the I.D. CROZZ SUV, making their debut in 2020. The next model in the series will be the zero-emission I.D. BUZZ van to be launched in 2022.

Press releases

Volkswagen accelerating transformation of Wolfsburg plant

12/07/22

Company

New

Volkswagen accelerating transformation of Wolfsburg plant

Volkswagen is making the Wolfsburg site fit for the future: the brand will be making an initial investment of some €460 million in the main factory at the Group headquarters by the beginning of 2025. This was announced on Wednesday by CEO Thomas Schäfer during a works meeting in Wolfsburg. The investment is primarily earmarked for preparations to produce the new ID.3. The compact electric car will be leaving the assembly line in Wolfsburg from 2023 – initially in partial production, with full production slated from 2024. Ramp-up is due for completion by the end of 2025. The necessary training measures for the workforce are currently being prepared. Post-ID.3 ramp-up, a further all-electric model for the booming SUV segment is to boost Wolfsburg’s capacity utilization for EV production over the long term. The technical basis for the new model is the Modular Electric Drive System (MEB). Volkswagen’s e-car platform is to undergo substantial further development as the MEB+, thus becoming even more efficient.

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The new ID.3 is ready and raring to go

12/02/22

Models

The new ID.3 is ready and raring to go

Volkswagen will be unveiling the new ID.3 to the public this coming spring. The second-generation ID.3 is set to be the latest chapter in the ID. family success story: To date, more than half a million ID. models – built on the basis of the modular electric drive matrix (MEB) – have been delivered to customers around the world. Currently, the ID.3 is produced at the Zwickau and Dresden plants in Germany. However, the production network will be expanded next year to include the main Volkswagen factory in Wolfsburg. This is in order to meet high levels of customer demand for the fully electric compact car.

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Volkswagen Group and PowerCo SE launch site search for first gigafactory in North America

12/01/22

Volkswagen Group News

Volkswagen Group and PowerCo SE launch site search for first gigafactory in North America

The Volkswagen Group and its battery company PowerCo SE founded in July 2022 intend to accelerate the build-up of their global battery business through rapid expansion to North America. Volkswagen CEO Oliver Blume and the Canadian Minister for Innovation, Science and Industry, François-Philippe Champagne, signed in Wolfsburg today an Addendum to the non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) of August this year to identify suitable sites for a cell factory in Canada. The two parties will continue their cooperation in the areas of battery value creation, raw material supply chains and cathode material production which had been established in August. Furthermore, PowerCo and materials technology group Umicore have agreed to investigate a strategic supply agreement on cathode material for North America. In September, the two companies had announced that they would cooperate in Europe by forming a joint venture for precursor and cathode material production.

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Volkswagen presents all-electric ID. XTREME off-road concept car in Locarno

09/09/22

Models

Volkswagen presents all-electric ID. XTREME off-road concept car in Locarno

Electrifying surprise at the ID. Treffen in Locarno: Volkswagen presents the ID. XTREME in Ticino today, an exceptional off-road concept car that will generate an enthusiastic response among the many electric mobility fans at the event. The fully electric concept car with all-wheel drive system is based on the ID.4 GTX and combines the strengths of a modern SUV with the sense of adventure embodied by a rugged off-road vehicle.

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Volkswagen Group and Canada aim to advance sustainable battery supply chain in North America

08/23/22

Volkswagen Group News

Volkswagen Group and Canada aim to advance sustainable battery supply chain in North America

Volkswagen AG and the Government of Canada aim to promote e-mobility in the country and to explore opportunities across Canada’s automotive and battery supply chain. This was agreed in a "Memorandum of Understanding" (MoU) signed today in Toronto by Volkswagen CEO Herbert Diess and Canada's Minister of Innovation, Science, and Industry, François-Philippe Champagne, in the presence of German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Both parties will investigate opportunities for Canada to contribute to Volkswagen’s global and regional battery supply chains. PowerCo, the newly founded battery company of the Group, has a central role in these efforts and will drive forward the planned cooperation in the fields of battery value creation, raw materials supply chains and cathode material production in the North American region.

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96 MEB cell modules reused: Volkswagen Sachsen couples fast-charging park with mega power bank

07/14/22

Company

96 MEB cell modules reused: Volkswagen Sachsen couples fast-charging park with mega power bank

Today, at the Zwickau vehicle plant, Volkswagen commissioned the first fast-charging park in Saxony, which is supplied with energy largely from a so-called power storage container (PSC). The PSC is a type of enormous electricity storage unit and consists of 96 cell modules with a net capacity of 570 kWh. The advantage is that fast-charging infrastructure can be built nearly anywhere, even if in places with a low-capacity grid connection. Residential areas are one example of where this could be used. Additionally, this solution is sustainable: all cell modules in the PSC were formerly installed as batteries in pre-production models of the ID.3 and ID.4 and have now been given a second purpose. With the pilot project, Volkswagen Sachsen is putting its technology expertise on display, which goes beyond the manufacturing of its six all-electric vehicles. Two other central German companies – AW Automotive and Automotive Research – were involved in the realization of the project.

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Ground breaking in Salzgitter: Volkswagen enters global battery business with “PowerCo”

07/07/22

Volkswagen Group News

Ground breaking in Salzgitter: Volkswagen enters global battery business with “PowerCo”

Volkswagen is consistently continuing its e-mobility strategy: to kick off its battery offensive, the Group broke the ground for its first cell factory in Salzgitter today in the presence of German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Production will start in 2025. With immediate effect, responsibility for global battery business is to be held by the newly created company “PowerCo”. In addition to cell production, the new company will be responsible for activities along the entire battery value chain. Up to 2030, PowerCo is to invest more than €20 billion together with partners in the development of the business area, to generate annual sales in excess of €20 billion and to employ up to 20,000 people in Europe alone.

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Volkswagen’s first fully-electric sedan: world premiere of the ID. AERO

06/27/22

Models

Volkswagen’s first fully-electric sedan: world premiere of the ID. AERO

Dynamic, powerful and with pure aerodynamics: with today’s world premiere of the ID. AERO concept car in China, Volkswagen is providing a foretaste of the brand’s first global fully-electric sedan. The future model will be positioned in the premium mid-size sedan segment. Its progressive, stylish and aerodynamic design allows the vehicle to impress with generous space in the interior. The production version for China is expected to go on sale in the second half of 2023. Volkswagen is also planning to start production of a European series version in Emden in 2023.

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Volkswagen’s first fully-electric limousine: The ID. AERO is under starter’s orders

06/22/22

Models

Volkswagen’s first fully-electric limousine: The ID. AERO is under starter’s orders

The Volkswagen brand is looking into the future and releasing exclusive design sketches of the ID. AERO, the first fully-electric limousine for the Chinese automobile market. At first glance, the new concept car impresses with its outstanding aerodynamics, elegant design and generous space. The digital world premiere of the pre-production study will take place on Monday, 27 June, at 14:00 (CEST).

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New GTX models get more comprehensive standard equipment and a refined look

06/15/22

Models

New GTX models get more comprehensive standard equipment and a refined look

Volkswagen’s GTX brand stands for the sporty top-of-the-line models of the ID. family. The ID.4 GTX and ID.5 GTX models with dual-motor all-wheel drive – presented just last year – will now be equipped with even more comprehensive standard equipment to emphasise this claim. In addition, they provide a glimpse of the look of other GTX models with new design accents in black and red. In future, every ID. series will have its own GTX model. The ID.4 GTX from 53,255 euros and ID.5 GTX from 56,455 euros are already available for order.

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Volkswagen offers additional all-wheel drive version for the ID.4

06/09/22

Models

Volkswagen offers additional all-wheel drive version for the ID.4

Volkswagen is adding another all-wheel drive version to the all-electric ID.4 product line: the ID.4 Pro 4MOTION. Based on the ID.4 Pro Performance, the model has a system power of 195 kW/265 PS and offers more traction in wet conditions and when driving on snow or loose ground. Only the sporty ID.4 GTX 4MOTION flagship model was previously available as an all-wheel drive version. Presales for the new additional all-wheel drive version are starting today; prices in Germany are from 49,020 euros.

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Volkswagen-led research team to recycle batteries multiple times for the first time

06/08/22

Volkswagen Group News

Volkswagen-led research team to recycle batteries multiple times for the first time

Partners from the industrial and scientific communities want to jointly prove that the most valuable components of traction batteries can be recovered and reused several times in succession through recycling. The HVBatCycle research consortium has the goal of keeping cathode metals, electrolyte and graphite permanently in a closed material cycle (closed loop). Under the leadership of the Volkswagen Group, TANIOBIS GmbH, J. Schmalz GmbH and Viscom AG are working together with researchers from RWTH Aachen University, TU Braunschweig and the Fraunhofer Institute for Surface Engineering and Thin Films (IST) for three years to research and develop the necessary processes. The project is funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action.

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The new ID. Buzz: a perfect companion in the digital world

06/08/22

Models

The new ID. Buzz: a perfect companion in the digital world

The ID. Buzz is headed sustainably and efficiently into the future, building on the great strengths long offered by Volkswagen buses. The interior of the ID. Buzz is an Open Space with plenty of room, outstanding variability and a high level of comfort. At the same time, the model is a pioneering companion in the digital world. It offers the best possible connectivity thanks to its fully digital operating concept and innovative infotainment system. Technical details such as USB-C ports are also on board, allowing passengers to perform rapid charging of their smartphones, laptops, etc. with a capacity of up to 45 watts. In combination with the clear design and fresh two-tone look, the ID. Buzz becomes a “digital living room” and therefore opens up a new dimension in electric mobility.

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Volkswagen unveils two ‘Obi-Wan Kenobi’ inspired ID. Buzz vehicles at Star Wars Celebration

05/27/22

Models

Volkswagen unveils two ‘Obi-Wan Kenobi’ inspired ID. Buzz vehicles at Star Wars Celebration

Two very special ‘Obi-Wan Kenobi’ inspired Volkswagen ID. Buzz are part of this year’s Star Wars Celebration in Anaheim, California (May 26-29), part of the brand’s ongoing collaboration with the new series, coming to Disney+ on May 27.

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The wait is finally over! – Start of ID. Buzz pre-sales

05/18/22

Models

The wait is finally over! – Start of ID. Buzz pre-sales

Pre-sales of the new ID. Buzz and ID. Buzz Cargo start in Germany and most European markets on this coming Friday, 20 May. The zero-emission all-rounder can be ordered from this date – whether as an electric bus for the family, leisure activities or business, or as a delivery vehicle for companies.

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The new ID. Buzz and the ID. Buzz Cargo: Clean design along classic lines for modern-day mobility

05/13/22

Models

The new ID. Buzz and the ID. Buzz Cargo: Clean design along classic lines for modern-day mobility

An icon returns! With the ID. Buzz and the ID. Buzz Cargo, Volkswagen brings the T1’s DNA into the present – and the future. Like the first 1950 Bus, the new models are cleanly and functionally designed, while at the same time evoking a number of emotions. But how was that accomplished? Volkswagen designers provide exclusive insights into their work.

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The new ID.5 achieves highest score in the Euro NCAP driver assistance test

05/12/22

Models

The new ID.5 achieves highest score in the Euro NCAP driver assistance test

The latest ID.5 assistance technologies were rated "very good" and reached 4 out of 4 possible points - the highest possible score - in the Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme). The testers were impressed by the innovative systems of the all-electric ID.5 highlighting maximum comfort and an excellent level of assistance. With the "Driver Assistance Test", Euro NCAP has expanded its test scheme beyond the classic crash test and introduced a structured evaluation and classification system in the area of comfort and assistance systems. Aiming to give consumers a realistic insight into the performance of state of the art assistance systems.

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A Bulli for the all-electric future: World premiere of the new ID. Buzz

03/09/22

Models

A Bulli for the all-electric future: World premiere of the new ID. Buzz

Volkswagen Passenger Cars and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles are giving the new ID. Buzz and ID. Buzz Cargo their world premiere today in Hamburg. With Europe's first all-electric bus and transporter range, Volkswagen is providing yet another solution to sustainable and CO₂-free mobility. The ID. Buzz comes with the latest ID. software and sets new standards in its segment with the latest systems and functions for safety, comfort and charging.

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The ID. Buzz is on its way: only one day to go until the world premiere

03/08/22

Models

The ID. Buzz is on its way: only one day to go until the world premiere

It’s getting exciting: on Wednesday, 9 March at 7:00 pm (CET), Volkswagen and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will present the ID. Buzz at a digital world premiere. The ID. Buzz is the most emotional member of the all-electric ID. family to date, taking the DNA of the legendary Volkswagen T1 of 1950 forward into the future with its unique design, innovative technology and progressive sustainability. It is to be launched this year as a five-seater bus and cargo version with zero local emissions.

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Volkswagen ID. Buzz: sustainable, with plenty of attention to detail

03/07/22

Models

Volkswagen ID. Buzz: sustainable, with plenty of attention to detail

The official world premiere of the all-electric ID. Buzz is set to take place at 7 p.m on Wednesday, 9 March. It will be launched on the market in two versions – as a bus and as a cargo version. The all-electric edition of the legendary cult-status Microbus has been fully rethought and redesigned. The spacious and versatile interior impresses with its colour scheme, sustainable materials and ingenious ideas.

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The successful ID family continues to grow: the new ID.5 is the first electric SUV coupé from Volkswagen

11/03/21

Models

The successful ID family continues to grow: the new ID.5 is the first electric SUV coupé from Volkswagen

On the “Way to ZERO”: The new ID.5 does more than just expand the successful ID. family; the new Volkswagen launch moves the electrification of its new car fleet forward and into a new market segment. The elegant, expressive E-SUV coupé is equipped with the new ID. software version 3.0, which includes improved charging performance and voice control among other features. With the use of swarm data and latest-generation driver assistance systems, Volkswagen is also taking the next step towards automated driving.

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New battery laboratories: Volkswagen takes the next step towards developing and producing own battery cells

09/13/21

Volkswagen Group News

New battery laboratories: Volkswagen takes the next step towards developing and producing own battery cells

Volkswagen Group Components today opened one of the most modern laboratories for cell research and development in Europe in Salzgitter. Thus, the company is further expanding its expertise in battery technology and taking the next step towards developing and producing its own battery cells for electromobility. From 2025 onwards, the Volkswagen unified cell is scheduled to roll off the production line in Salzgitter. In the future, around 250 experts will conduct research in the areas of cell development, analytics and testing in a total of four laboratories. Volkswagen is investing around 70 million euros in the facilities.

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Volkswagen invests a further €500 million in sustainable battery activities with Northvolt AB

06/09/21

Volkswagen Group News

Volkswagen invests a further €500 million in sustainable battery activities with Northvolt AB

Volkswagen is participating, with a contribution of US$620 million (about €500 million), in a financing round of its Swedish battery partner Northvolt AB with a total volume of US$2.75 billion. The Group will thus maintain its stake in the company constant at about 20 percent. The funds are to be used for capacity expansion in the fields of production, recycling and research and development. Among other activities, Northvolt intends to expand the capacity of its Northvolt Ett gigafactory in Skellefteå, Northern Sweden from 40 GWh to 60 GWh per year, in order to meet higher demand from customers.

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Long range and rapid charging: the battery system is at the heart of the Volkswagen ID.3, ID.4 and ID.4 GTX

05/10/21

Models

Long range and rapid charging: the battery system is at the heart of the Volkswagen ID.3, ID.4 and ID.4 GTX

What do the fully electric compact Volkswagen ID.3, the ID.4, which was recently singled out for the “2021 World Car of the Year” award, and the recently presented high-performance model ID.4 GTX have in common? They all have cutting-edge technology on board in the shape of the high-voltage battery system from Volkswagen Group Components in Braunschweig. This makes for strong performance, long range, excellent safety and rapid charging. The demand for attractive and affordable electric vehicles based on the modular electric drive matrix (MEB) is so high that the site recently expanded production to up to 500,000 batteries a year.

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Powerful battery systems from Braunschweig: Volkswagen Group Components fires up the next production stage

04/15/21

Volkswagen Group News

Powerful battery systems from Braunschweig: Volkswagen Group Components fires up the next production stage

The Volkswagen Group Components plant in Braunschweig is significantly expanding its production of battery systems for the latest electric vehicle generation. Following the first expansion stage with a maximum capacity of 250,000 battery systems, the second expansion stage has started up with the same capacity. This means that once the site is fully ramped up it will now be able to fit up to 500,000 batteries a year for models based on the modular electric drive matrix (MEB) ‒ in this case for the fully electric Volkswagen ID.3 and ID.4, as well as the ŠKODA ENYAQ iV, which should soon be quietly and powerfully cruising the streets of Europe with a battery heart from Braunschweig. In addition to that, up to 100,000 battery systems for the beloved models e-up!, SEAT Mii electric, ŠKODA Citigoe iV and as well as for hybrid vehicles such as the Volkswagen Golf GTE.

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Transforming old into new: Volkswagen Group Components commences battery recycling

01/29/21

Volkswagen Group News

Transforming old into new: Volkswagen Group Components commences battery recycling

Today, Volkswagen Group Components opened the Group’s first plant for recycling electric car batteries in Salzgitter. As pilot operation commences, the Volkswagen Group takes another committed step towards sustainable end-to-end responsibility for the entire value chain of the electric vehicle battery. The aim is the industrialised recovery of valuable raw materials such as lithium, nickel, manganese and cobalt in a closed loop together with aluminium, copper and plastics, achieving a recycling rate of more than 90% over the long term.

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Volkswagen commissions green battery logistics system for ID.3 and ID.4

11/30/20

Volkswagen Group News

Volkswagen commissions green battery logistics system for ID.3 and ID.4

The Volkswagen Group is making battery shipment for its ID.3 and ID.4 electric vehicles even more environmentally compatible and efficient. At the Zwickau plant today, the final link in a green logistics chain extending from Poland via Brunswick to the plant in Saxony was commissioned. This is a fully automated system for unloading batteries from incoming trains. The system will reduce carbon dioxide emissions by some 11,000 tonnes per year, corresponding to the CO₂ emissions of a medium-sized village with about 1,000 inhabitants. “With this green and efficient logistics chain, we are making a key contribution to reducing emissions within the Group and to the delivery of the Volkswagen ID.3 and ID.4 with a neutral carbon balance,” says Thomas Zernechel, Head of Volkswagen Group Logistics.

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Range record: ID.3 makes the journey from Zwickau to Switzerland on a single charge

08/25/20

Models

Range record: ID.3 makes the journey from Zwickau to Switzerland on a single charge

The new Volkswagen ID.3 has set its first range record: The electric car covered the 531 kilometers from Zwickau to Schaffhausen (Switzerland) on a single charge. Officially, the model has a range of up to 420 kilometers (WLTP). This mark was topped by more than 100 kilometers – an increase of 26 percent. The vehicle was a series production ID.3 1st Pro Performance with a 58 kWh battery built at the Zwickau electric car factory. The route to Switzerland consisted entirely of public roads and highways, passing cities such as Bayreuth and Ulm. The record-breaking vehicle was driven by “hypermiler” Felix Egolf, a native of Switzerland. The term “hypermiling” originated in the USA and refers to driving a series production vehicle with techniques that maximize efficiency and minimize consumption.

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Emission-free mobility for all: sales of ID.3 start on July 20

07/13/20

Company

Emission-free mobility for all: sales of ID.3 start on July 20

Four weeks after the start of ordering for the limited ID.3 1ST for pre-bookers, Volkswagen is opening the ordering system to the public on July 20, 2020. Customers in many European countries will be able to choose from seven pre-configured ID.3 models at dealerships and to order the appropriate charging equipment at the same time. Buyers will benefit from attractive concessions for charging via WeCharge for up to 3 years. All seven ID.3 models will be eligible for the maximum state subsidy of €9,480 granted as an environmental bonus in Germany. Subsidies will also be available for the ID.3 in many other European countries.

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ID.3 1st deliveries begin in early September

06/10/20

Models

ID.3 1st deliveries begin in early September

The final timetable for the start of Volkswagen’s ID. family has been set: Binding orders for the 30,000 models making up the limited 1st Edition of the ID. 3 can be placed from June 17 in most European countries. As a token of thanks for their loyalty to the brand, Volkswagen is offering all pre-bookers wishing to take possession of their ID.3 1st as quickly as possible membership the 1st Mover Club. Delivery of the ID.3 1st to “First Movers” begins in early September.

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Volkswagen invests in battery operations at Salzgitter

05/08/20

Volkswagen Group News

Volkswagen invests in battery operations at Salzgitter

The joint venture between Volkswagen Group and the Swedish battery producer Northvolt AB is gaining further momentum. It has been decided that Volkswagen itself will erect the buildings and infrastructure for the joint venture’s “Northvolt Zwei” factory that is to produce lithium-ion battery cells, in order to leverage synergies at the Salzgitter site – based on the existing Center of Excellence for Battery Cells. Some €450 million is to be invested in this project. The joint venture will then rent the factory space. Battery cell production at the plant is scheduled to commence in early 2024 with an initial production capacity of 16 gigawatt hours.

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ID.3: just as inexpensive as a car with an internal combustion engine

03/12/20

E-mobility

ID.3: just as inexpensive as a car with an internal combustion engine

With the market introduction of the ID.3 this summer, Volkswagen will make e-mobility affordable for many people. The basic version of the ID.3 will be less expensive in Germany in terms of acquisition and operation than comparable internal combustion models. As regards operating expenses alone, ID.3 drivers in Germany will save about €840 per year. “With the ID.3, the electric car will finally become affordable. This model is entirely fit for everyday use and even costs less than an internal combustion model thanks to the environmental bonus,” says Thomas Ulbrich, Member of the Board of Management of the Volkswagen brand responsible for E-Mobility. Currently, preparations for the delivery of the ID.3 are well underway. “The time schedule will be met,” Ulbrich confirms. ”The ID.3 will be introduced to the market in the summer, as announced.”

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Volkswagen provides first insights into its new all-electric compact SUV ID.4

03/03/20

Models

Volkswagen provides first insights into its new all-electric compact SUV ID.4

The ID. CROZZ showcar evolves into its series production version, the ID.4: Volkswagen is forging ahead with its electric mobility strategy by providing a detailed insight into the brand’s first all-electric SUV during a webcast following the cancellation of the Geneva Motor Show. The new ID.4 will be launched this year. 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). “Just like the ID.3, the ID.4 will also come onto the market as a carbon-neutral vehicle”, explains Ralf Brandstätter, Chief Operating Officer of the Volkswagen brand. “We will produce and sell the ID.4 in Europe, China and the U.S..”

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Two days to go until the record attempt: kW buzz on Pikes Peak

06/22/18

Technology

Two days to go until the record attempt: kW buzz on Pikes Peak

At 10:00 local time (18:00 CEST) on Sunday, Volkswagen will begin its pursuit of the record for electric vehicles, which currently stands at 8:57.118 minutes, at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in the US state of Colorado. Three-time overall winner Romain Dumas will be at the wheel of the ID. R Pikes Peak, Volkswagen’s first fully-electric racing car. The Frenchman set the fastest time in qualifying on Wednesday. Much is new to many of the Volkswagen crew on Pikes Peak, both on and off the track.

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Volkswagen partners with QuantumScape to secure access to solid-state battery technology

06/21/18

Volkswagen Group News

Volkswagen partners with QuantumScape to secure access to solid-state battery technology

By increasing its stake in the California technology company QuantumScape Corporation and forming a new joint venture, Volkswagen Group is paving the way for the next level of battery power for long-range e-mobility. Dr. Axel Heinrich, Head of VW Group Research, who will take a seat on the board of directors of QuantumScape, says: “We want to accelerate the commercialization of QuantumScape’s solid-state batteries. And we combine forces to leverage Volkswagen’s experience as a production specialist and QuantumScape technology leadership. Volkswagen is thus taking another step toward a sustainable, zero emission mobility for our customers in the future.” Volkswagen will invest 100m USD in US-based QuantumScape and will become the innovative enterprise’s largest automotive shareholder. Closing of the transaction is subject to regulatory approval.

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Sporty outfit unveiled: The ID. R Pikes Peak to bear start number 94

06/09/18

Technology

Sporty outfit unveiled: The ID. R Pikes Peak to bear start number 94

The countdown is on to the 96th Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. Two weeks ahead of the start of the most famous hill climb in the world, the ID. R Pikes Peak appeared at the final official test in its final livery and bearing its start number. Volkswagen’s first fully-electric racing car lines up on 24 June in grey – the hallmark colour of the ID. family.

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Volkswagen tests quantum computing in battery research

06/07/18

Volkswagen Group News

Volkswagen tests quantum computing in battery research

For the first time, Volkswagen experts have succeeded in simulating industrially relevant molecules using a quantum computer. This is especially important for the development of high-performance electric vehicle batteries. The experts have successfully simulated molecules such as lithium-hydrogen and carbon chains. Now they are working on more complex chemical compounds. In the long term, they want to simulate the chemical structure of a complete electric vehicle battery on a quantum computer. Their objective is to develop a “tailor-made battery”, a configurable chemical blueprint that is ready for production. Volkswagen is presenting its research work connected with quantum computing at the CEBIT technology show (Hanover, June 12-15).

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Emotional and functional – the design of the ID. R Pikes Peak

06/07/18

Technology

Emotional and functional – the design of the ID. R Pikes Peak

Development of the ID. R Pikes Peak started around seven months ago – a multifaceted challenge, including for the Volkswagen Design team. “We already have a wealth of experience with high-performance cars and with racing cars, but a powerful prototype like the ID. R Pikes Peak was a world first for us,” said Klaus Bischoff, Head of Volkswagen Design. “Our task was to transfer the unmistakable style of the ID. family to such an extreme and emotional racing car.”

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Romain Dumas completes first test with the ID. R Pikes Peak in the USA

06/01/18

Technology

Romain Dumas completes first test with the ID. R Pikes Peak in the USA

The ID. R Pikes Peak has completed the first test for the “Pikes Peak International Hill Climb” on the original track in the US state of Colorado: Driver Romain Dumas was impressed with the performance of the all-electric powered racing car. Since the track to the summit at an altitude of 4,302 metres is a public road, the team only had access to it for three hours. For preparing for the further test runs and the race on 24th June, Volkswagen Motorsport has established a permanent base in Colorado.

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Every gram counts – lightweight design strategy defines ID. R Pikes Peak concept

05/24/18

Technology

Every gram counts – lightweight design strategy defines ID. R Pikes Peak concept

It started with simulations. “Before we actually assembled the ID. R Pikes Peak, we used computers to analyse a multitude of different configurations,” says Willy Rampf, technical advisor to the project and a man with a wealth of Formula 1 experience, recalling the start of the development of the car for the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. “It was clear to us that we would not have time to build multiple test vehicles. We had to get it right at the first attempt.”

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Up in the air – Volkswagen Motorsport breaking new technological ground with the aerodynamics of the ID. R Pikes Peak

05/18/18

Technology

Up in the air – Volkswagen Motorsport breaking new technological ground with the aerodynamics of the ID. R Pikes Peak

At first glance, it is clear to see that the ID. R Pikes Peak has been developed for extreme conditions. The aerodynamic aspect of Volkswagen’s first fully-electric racing car is also uncompromisingly designed to tackle the most famous hill climb in the world. “The start line is located at an altitude of almost 2,900 metres, with the finish at 4,300 metres above sea level. The low air pressure up there means that the aerodynamic conditions are different to those at a racetrack on flat land,” explains François-Xavier Demaison, Technical Director at Volkswagen Motorsport and the man responsible for developing the ID. R Pikes Peak as project manager. The relatively open regulations gave the engineers far more leeway, with which to design the chassis and rear wing of the ID. R Pikes Peak, than in other racing disciplines.

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Volkswagen to offer electrified versions of its models

04/25/18

Technology

Volkswagen to offer electrified versions of its models

Volkswagen is to launch an electric version of its globally best-selling vehicle – the Volkswagen Golf, offering a sustainable, efficient and powerful alternative. The introduction of innovative, new hybrid systems in the eighth generation of Golf vehicles marks a new era for the brand with regard to drive technology. In the future, Volkswagen will gradually electrify almost every vehicle in its range of models. The company is offering a first look at the future of electrified drive systems as part of the International Vienna Motor Symposium – one of the world’s most important congresses on the automotive technology of today and the future.

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World premiere of the ID. VIZZION in Geneva Volkswagen shows the potential of its new range of ID. models

02/19/18

Models

World premiere of the ID. VIZZION in Geneva Volkswagen shows the potential of its new range of ID. models

The ID. VIZZION supports the Volkswagen claim for future individual mobility. Its electric drive system makes the car clean in road traffic, and its automatic driving control will make it safe and much more comfortable. At the same time, this innovative concept car at the Geneva International Motor Show demonstrates how elegant and emotional the design of a vehicle of the future can be. Inside the ID. VIZZION, a completely new feeling of driving and living is created without a steering wheel or visible controls.

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Volkswagen signs up Le Mans winner Romain Dumas for Pikes Peak International Hill Climb 2018

01/31/18

Technology

Volkswagen signs up Le Mans winner Romain Dumas for Pikes Peak International Hill Climb 2018

Volkswagen is banking on experience for its comeback in the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. On 24 June 2018, more than 30 years after Volkswagen last entered the world's most famous hill climb, Romain Dumas from France will be behind the wheel of the marque's first fully electric racing car. Dumas has already won the so-called ‘Race to the Clouds' in the US state of Colorado three times. He is also able to build on the experience gained from driving hybrid prototypes in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC): Dumas secured the world title in this high-tech racing series in 2016 as a Porsche works driver.

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Volkswagen develops electric race car for world's most renowned mountain race

10/19/17

Technology

Volkswagen develops electric race car for world's most renowned mountain race

New challenge in motorsport with the technology of tomorrow: Volkswagen is developing an all-electric race car for the world's most renowned mountain race. The all-wheel drive prototype is scheduled to be at the start of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in Colorado, USA on 24 June 2018. Its goal: to set a new record for electric cars at the finish line which is at 4,300 metres elevation. The new motorsport project is part of Volkswagen's process of transforming itself into the leading producer of electric vehicles. By 2025, the Volkswagen brand will already be offering 23 all-electric models.

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Chancellor Merkel visits Volkswagen at the IAA: Powertrain concepts of the future presented

09/14/17

Models

Chancellor Merkel visits Volkswagen at the IAA: Powertrain concepts of the future presented

At the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt today, German Chancellor Dr. Angela Merkel was given a glimpse of the automotive future. "The automobile has its best days ahead of it. With the right concepts, Volkswagen will contribute to shaping the automobile of the future," said Dr. Herbert Diess, Chairman of the Board of Management of the Volkswagen brand. Over the next five years, the brand will be investing about €3.5 billion in the optimization of conventional diesel, gasoline and natural gas powertrains. During the same period, €6 billion will be invested in e-mobility. At the IAA, Volkswagen is exhibiting the current state of development with the latest models and presenting the electric future of mobility in the form of concept vehicles from the ID. model family. The first production ID. models will be on show at the IAA in 2019.

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IAA 2017: Volkswagen brand points the way to the automotive future

09/12/17

Models

IAA 2017: Volkswagen brand points the way to the automotive future

The Volkswagen brand is pointing the way to the future at its motor show appearance at this year's International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt: along with the world premiere of the new ID.CROZZ – a zero emission SUV that will go into production in 2020 – three other premieres will be featured: the new T-Roc, the new Polo GTI and the updated Golf Sportsvan. Dr Herbert Diess, Chairman of the Brand Board of Management Volkswagen Passenger Cars: "We will be thoroughly updating our vehicle range by 2020 and expanding into important segments. In 2025 Volkswagen Brand will already be offering 23 all-electric models and invest 6 billion euros in electric mobility over the next five years. In this process, the different drive technologies will continue to have currency for many years to come. It makes sense for diesel, petrol and electric drives to mutually complement one another."

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Dr. Herbert Diess ID. Buzz - reinventing a brand icon

08/19/17

Models

Dr. Herbert Diess ID. Buzz - reinventing a brand icon

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ID. – the world premiere

09/28/16

Technology

ID. – the world premiere

World premiere of the ID. starts the countdown to a new era for Volkswagen Volkswagen plans for the visionary ID. to hit the road in 2020 An ambassador: the ID. is the first Volkswagen of a new fleet of electric cars It runs and runs: the ID. has a range of 400 to 600 kilometres Ready for the future: the ID. concept car demonstrates a fully automated mode for the year 2025

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Ahead of its time: The visionary BUDD-e concept van is honoured once again

08/05/16

Technology

Ahead of its time: The visionary BUDD-e concept van is honoured once again

The BUDD-e has been honoured for its forward-looking overall concept at the North American Concept Vehicle of the Year Awards in Plymouth, Michigan. The awards jury pointed out that the BUDD-e is an environmentally compatible model that also meets the vehicle-utility requirements of the 21st century.

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World premiere of the Tiguan GTE Active Concept in Detroit

01/11/16

Models

World premiere of the Tiguan GTE Active Concept in Detroit

At the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, Volkswagen is presenting the Tiguan GTE Active Concept. The concept car is based on the new Tiguan, and it showcases the technical capabilities of the modular transverse matrix. The primary goal was to create a synthesis of plug-in hybrid technology and maximum off-road performance.

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North American International Auto Show in Detroit: World premiere of the Cross Coupé GTE

01/12/15

Models

North American International Auto Show in Detroit: World premiere of the Cross Coupé GTE

At the start of every new year, automotive experts come together at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. This year, Volkswagen's presentation is focusing on the striking Cross Coupé GTE. With the world premiere of the five-seater SUV concept car, the carmaker from Wolfsburg is offering a further preview of the latest SUV model series that is fitted with a sporty and economical V6 plug-in hybrid drive for the first time.

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Stories

04/23/21

E-mobility

“Ranges of over 500 kilometres will soon be a matter of course”

Prof. Maximilian Fichtner is an internationally renowned expert in battery technology. In an interview, he talks about improved battery systems, alternatives to the use of cobalt and the climate advantage of e-cars.

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02/03/21

Models

A car for all occasions

Plenty of space for family and leisure, compact for city traffic, and comfortable over longer journeys – there’s really nothing the new Volkswagen ID.4 can’t do.

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01/29/21

Volkswagen Group News

From old to new – Battery recycling in Salzgitter

Something is happening in Salzgitter that has never been seen before in the Volkswagen Group – the first plant for recycling used electric car batteries is beginning operations. We look back at the development of this innovative and sustainable process.

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Story: “Every battery has to prove its safety in 5,000 tests”

01/22/21

E-mobility

“Every battery has to prove its safety in 5,000 tests”

Driving electric means driving safely: Before the battery systems of modern e-cars from Volkswagen hit the road, they have passed a lifetime of comprehensive safety checks. Dr. Michal Bruna is Head of Electronics Development and Testing at the Battery Development Center of Volkswagen Group Components in Brunswick. He explains what release tests the energy storage devices have to undergo.

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“We cell developers are helping shape the future”

11/06/20

E-mobility

"We're looking for the supercell!"

When Tim Dagger decided to study chemistry in 2008, there was initially little indication of a career in the automotive industry. Then electric mobility became increasingly important – and Tim bet on the right horse. “Since 2012 I have been working on lithium-ion technology. It makes me very happy to see how the technology is now helping electric cars penetrate the mass market,” says Tim.

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Volkswagen steps up electric offensive: Series production of ID.4 begins in Zwickau

08/20/20

Models

Following three comes four: Series production of the ID.4 begins in Zwickau

The ID. family gets new blood: With the start of series production of the ID.4, Volkswagen’s first fully-electric SUV celebrates its production start at the Zwickau plant, only virtually on the Internet due to Corona, but the guestlist is nevertheless prominent: In addition to brand CEO Ralf Brandstätter and E-Mobility Director Thomas Ulbrich, Saxony’s Prime Minister Michael Kretschmer (CDU) also congratulated Volkswagen on the second ID. Model “Made in Saxony”. The ID.4 is also a milestone for automobile production: Like its predecessor the ID.3, the e-model will be manufactured and delivered in a CO₂-neutral manner.

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07/22/20

Models

Intelligent, innovative and sustainable: the new ID.3

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Story: “The MEB is a decisive plus point”

03/17/20

E-mobility

“The MEB is a decisive plus point”

The battery is considered the heart of modern electric cars. Frank Blome heads the Battery Cell business unit at Volkswagen Group Components. In an interview, he explains how the modular electric drive matrix (MEB) works and what progress can be expected in battery technology.

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Story: "The big cost comparison: e-car vs. combustion engine"

03/12/20

E-mobility

The big cost comparison: e-car vs. combustion engine

The ID.3 is intended to make e-mobility affordable and practical for everyone. For customers, its total costs are already on a par with those of comparable combustion engine vehicles – and even lower.

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