Future electric Volkswagen models, including a compact SUV based on the popular ID 3 hatch, will be based on an upgraded platform that will allow for bigger batteries, faster charging speeds and new driver assistance features.
All of the German firm’s ID line-up of electric models are based on the Volkswagen Group’s Modular Electric Drive System (MEB) platform, which was developed purely for EVs. The platform is shared by sister brands Audi, Cupra and Skoda, and is currently used for 12 machines.
The latest electric vehicle news: get our FREE newsletter
The VW Group is working on an advanced new platform, called SSP, which will eventually be used for the vast bulk of EVs from its brands, including performance and premium cars from the likes of Porsche and Bentley. But reports suggest that platform has now been delayed until at least 2028.
But Volkswagen has now committed to launching a new MEB+ platform, which the firm says will feature upgraded charging and battery storage technology. Autocar has reported that the a new ‘unified battery cell’ will be key to the new MEB+ platform, and will allow for vehicles that can be charged at up to 200kW. That represents a major increase on the 135kW maximum charging rate of current MEB models.
The first model to use the MEB+ platform will be an SUV, that will be closely based on the Volkswagen ID 3. Speaking about the new model, VW boss Thomas Schäfer said: “That is the largest vehicle segment worldwide, it is home to our popular Tiguan. The new model would ideally complement our bestselling ID 4 and ID 5.”
That model is at least a few year away: Volkswagen will invest around £400 million in its main Wolfsburg plant to ready it for EV production in 2025. That will start with the facelifted version of the ID 3 hatch, which will start to roll off Wolfsburg production lines next year.
The ID 3 SUV will be one of 10 new Volkswagen models the brand has promised to launch by 2026, which will include the long-awaited ‘entry-level’ compact car, tipped to be called the ID 2. Schäfer has also hinted that the firm could add another model that will be called the ID Golf, securing the future of that nameplate.
Volkswagen hasn’t given up on the new SSP platform, either, although it has been pushed back to around 2030. That architecture will make extensive use of software to add driver assistance systems, with the first model using it set to be the production version of an advanced long-range saloon being developed under the Project Trinity codename.
READ MORE
Subscribe to the Move Electric newsletter
e-CARS
Chinese car brand Nio to expand into UK by end of 2023
Driving a Citroën Ami around London: five things we learned
New Polestar 3: 380kW performance EV aims to 'redefine' the electric SUV
e-BIKES
Seven essential accessories to improve your e-bike life
The Lake District village that's pioneering community e-bike schemes
e-MOTORBIKES
Honda to launch more than 10 electric motorbikes by 2030
New Zero DSR/X launched as electric adventure motorbike
Stilride: the brand reinventing electric motorbike production
e-SCOOTERS
8Tev B12 Roam e-scooter review
Pure Electric launches two new machines that 'reinvent' the e-scooter
Rise in e-scooter accidents prompts call for 'urgent' government action
e-WORLD
Artemis electric ferry revealed for Bangor to Belfast service
New Mobilize Solo Concept is a safety-conscious e-scooter rival
Volta Zero: the electric truck tearing up the rule book for the electric age