Several analysts agree that the upcoming Volkswagen ID.2 will be a cornerstone of the democratization of electric cars in the future, just like the electric R5 that will appear worldwide at the same time.

These two models will be sold from 25,000 euros, except for the current environmental bonus. Thanks to its price, the compact from Wolfsburg will have a mission to give a stronger boost to the sales of electric cars in Europe.

But how did Volkswagen manage to drop prices so dramatically in less than a decade while maintaining its standards? Indeed, with its upcoming ID.2, Volkswagen does not intend to go low-end, as is currently the case with the Dacia Spring, which retails for around €20,000, but rather wants to the new electric Polo and of course in the end the best-selling car in Europe.

To answer this question, Arno Antlitz, CFO of the Volkswagen Group, provides some answers in a column from our colleagues at Autocar.

There is strength in unity

Volkswagen has a few tricks up its sleeve to lower production costs and thus benefit sales prices.

“Now we can work on economies of scale and volume of production. The ID.2 will have versions for the Cupra and Skoda brands, allowing us to keep costs down while remaining competitive. In addition, there will be many technical innovations, starting with batteries. The batteries will be manufactured at our factory in Valencia.”– explained Arno Antlitz.

The ID.2 standard will have a lot in common with the ID.2 all concept introduced a few months ago. Among the elements that we will find on all future electric city cars of the Volkswagen concern will be the MEB Entry platform, associated with an electric motor placed at the level of the front axle, this same motor will be powered by a located battery. under the floor.and able to provide range of up to 450 km on one charge.

Along with the new powertrain, Volkswagen will rely on advanced driver assistance systems such as next-generation Travel Assist and ParkAssist Plus to help the driver maneuver.

Renault vs. Volkswagen?

The SUV version of the ID.2 should see the light of day shortly after the presentation of the electric city car, and Volkswagen is preparing another affordable electric car with the ID.1. The first rumors point to with a base price of less than 20,000 euros and commercialization, which could happen by 2027.

For its part, Renault is also planning a small electric car for less than 20,000 euros, but according to the first information provided by Luca de Meo, the boss of the Renault group, there will have to be some compromises and the car could be inspired by the Japanese model of the kei car. On the part of Volkswagen ID.1 can be a replacement for e-up! an electric, micro-city car, sure, but one that could be more versatile than the Renault.