Volkswagen starts production of full electric SUV

The ID.4 is the second all-new electric vehicle for VW. Photo: Volkswagen

Volkswagen’s ID.4’s electric SUV is on track for launch with it’s Zwickau factory beginning production. 

The ID.4 is a compact rear-wheel-drive SUV and will have around 500km of range on electric power. 

The ID.4 combines Volkswagen’s electric offensive with the ongoing SUV trend. 

“However, the ID.4 is not only the first fully-electric SUV from the Volkswagen brand," says Brand Director Ulbrich at the start of series production of the new ID. model. 

“It will also be a genuine world car, which we will produce and sell not only in Europe, but also in China and the USA.”

Production of the ID.4 will start in China before the end of this year, and from 2022 the model will also be produced in North America.

“The ID.4 is technically top equipped with future-oriented features, has a low center of gravity and super driving dynamics. It also has excellent acceleration. A car that is simply a lot of fun,” says Ulbrich.

It follows hot on the heels of the ID.3 that is already in production and is based on the Golf platform.

These are important vehicles for VW as it aims to be hitting one million sales of electric vehicles annually by 2025.

While VW hasn’t officially unveiled the ID.4, images were leaked in China recently and it is a beautiful looking car that nicely straddles a conventional hatchback with the raised clearance of an SUV.

The ID.4 will start with a single electric motor initially but it is expected a dual motor will be available within 12 months.  The first engine will produce around 150kW while the second engine will be closer to 225kW.

The ID.4 will come with various battery units with the largest being an 83kWh unit. It will have rapid charging ability which will provide an 80 per cent charge within 30 minutes.