Volkswagen has revealed its highly-anticipated ID.3 pure-electric hatch on the eve of the Frankfurt Motor Show, showcasing what it reckons is the third chapter in its history – and one of its most important launched ever.
The all-electric model is based on the company’s new MEB platform, designed for electric powertrains and set to be rolled out across the mainstream brands of the VW Group. For now though, all eyes are on the ID.3, pitched as the next key model and following in the footsteps of the Beetle and Golf.
Come full launch, there will be three battery variants to choose between; an entry level 45 kWh model with 205 mile range, mid-spec 58 kWh version with 261 mile range, and flagship 77 kWh pack allowing a 342 mile range. Charging is possible at up to 100 kW DC via the CCS inlet.
Pricing will start at below £30,000 – around £27,000 – for the ID.3, which sits in the same bracket as the Golf. However, with a skateboard style chassis freeing up interior packaging, cabin space is much better than the Golf, despite a very similar footprint.
The electric motor sits on the rear axle, giving the ID.3 a link to the car that started it all for VW, with a rear-engine, rear-wheel drive set-up reminiscent of the original Beetle.
The interior is set to be a major shake-up for VW in this sector, with an augmented reality head-up display projecting information into the driver’s line-of sight.
The whole dashboard is minimalist in style, comprising essentially of just two screens – one for the driver’s instruments and one infotainment set-up. Even the drive selector has been moved to the edge of the driver’s instrument binnacle, similar in concept – though not identical – to the BMW i3’s.
VW has also launched its new logo on the ID.3, and though no word has yet come of a performance version, it wouldn’t be too surprising in future from the company that gave the world the Golf GTI.
Full pricing and specification details will be announced closer to the car’s UK launch.
