“The design of the ID.4 saves customers hard cash”

How do you design a world car like the ID.4 that will be well received everywhere?

The ID. family stands for the dawn of a new mobility – this is also reflected in the design: clear, aerodynamic, puristic. We use ornamentation extremely sparingly. We like to let surface be surface. We minimize openings wherever possible. And we largely close the front. That suits us because Volkswagen is one of very few brands born without a radiator grille. The result is a modern, durable design that meets the tastes of many people. This applies to the ID.4 as well as to the ID.3.

Tastes vary – what works in Europe doesn’t necessarily please customers in China or North America. Shouldn’t you take this into account more in your design?

That is not our approach. We strive for a coherent overall package that is right for customers in all regions. Just as we are familiar with from popular smartphones. The ID.4 will not be successful because it looks a little different in Germany than in the USA. The ID.4 has what it takes to become a world car, because SUVs are well received in all major markets. This applies to China, the USA and increasingly also to Europe. In a global poll, compact SUVs would get the most likes.

You say: The ID.4 is formed like the wind. What makes the aerodynamics stand out?

We designers like to look for role models in nature. Imagine a sand dune in the desert: soft shapes in front and on the sides. At the rear a tear-away edge. Such shapes can also be found on the ID.4 – easily recognizable by the surrounding edges and the tucked-in rear. With electric cars, good aerodynamics are even more important than with combustion engines, so that the vehicles offer ranges suitable for everyday use. By the way, it’s not only about the exterior, but also about the interior. The air flow in the interior also determines how efficiently the charged energy is used.

The flow resistance of a car is reflected in the drag coefficient value – the lower the better. For the ID.4, the Cd value is 0.28. What does this mean compared to conventional vehicles?

Our comparison model for the combustion engine vehicles is the Tiguan – with a drag coefficient value of 0.34. That doesn’t sound like much. But especially at higher speeds it makes a noticeable difference. At about 50 kilometers per hour and above, air resistance is the strongest resistance that needs to be overcome. Every improvement increases energy efficiency and range.

So good aerodynamic design saves drivers hard cash?

Yes, the design of the ID.4 saves customers hard cash – but not only because of the aerodynamics. We do not look for short-lived trends. The design of the ID.4 and the whole ID. family is both fresh and durable. In addition, ID. family models are updatable. The software does not stand still, but improves over time. For example, customers can activate new assistance systems or additional entertainment options. All this counteracts the residual value – a great advantage for customers who want to resell their car.

A car that remains modern – is that really realistic?
Take the Golf 4, which has been on the road for two decades and is still doing well. This is quintessential Volkswagen. It may be that some people first have to get used to the new e-cars. Like a new sweater that may scratch a little when you wear it for the first time, but will soon become very comfortable. I am convinced that people will appreciate cars like the ID.3 and ID.4 very quickly: The spacious, airy interior. The new driving experience. And the peace and quiet while driving, where you can hear the birds chirping.