New ID. Every1 is set to roll out as VW’s entry-level EV

New ID. Every1 is set to roll out as VW’s entry-level EV

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Last month, VW dropped the first teaser of what will soon be its most affordable entry-level EV, with a price tag translating to around R380,000 at the current exchange rate. Back then, details were scarce, including its name.

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Now, VW has finally unveiled the new car, which bears the ID.Every1 name, which seems to follow the same philosophy as the beloved Up! of yesteryears, albeit in an EV format. By the looks of things, the new ID. Every1 evolved from the same idea, and it’s positioned to become a winner in the segment.

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At this stage, the ID.Every1 is still a concept, and it’s only expected to reach production stages in 2027. Based on the new modular electric platform that also underpins the ID.2all and the sport version ID. GTI Concepts, the new car will feature an electric front-wheel drive system and will be able to accelerate to a top speed of 130k/h. 

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Though VW doesn’t mention the EV’s battery capacity, it says its electric drive motor produces 70kW plus a range of about 250km between chargers. While the range seems decent for daily commuting, it falls short compared to its closest rivals, the GWM Ora and Mini Cooper SE, which both have up to 420km and 400km on a full charge, respectively.

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In terms of size, the ID.Every1 measures 3,889mm in length, slightly longer than the Up! at 3,600mm, but it's still compact enough to accommodate four passengers and a 305-litre boot space—a touch smaller than the Toyota Starlet/Suzuki Baleno's 314-litre luggage space. 

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The interior, on the other hand, is nothing we have seen before. It appears minimal with a touch of gold detailing here and there, plus a large floating infotainment system that looks similar to what we've seen in the firm’s latest products. There is a multifunction steering wheel that contains actual buttons, instead of the difficult-to-use haptic feedback variety. This is further complemented by a slim digital instrument cluster that adds to the minimalistic atmosphere.

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At this stage, the VW AG (Volkswagen Africa Group) hasn’t confirmed if the ID.Every1 will be offered locally. But if it does, it will have to face the reality of local import taxes and duties, which will consequently push the price up, making it less affordable for local buyers. This is where the government must come in with some form of support in the form of tax breaks and incentives. 

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