Volkswagen is gearing up to launch its next-generation electric vehicles (EVs) in 2028, based on the upcoming Scalable Systems Platform (SSP). The announcement came from Volkswagen CEO Thomas Schäfer during the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the VW Golf. While specific details about the debut model were not disclosed, former Volkswagen Group CEO Herbert Diess suggested that it would likely be an SUV.
The SSP platform will serve as a replacement for various existing platforms, including the MQB, MSB, and MLB ICE platforms, as well as the MEB and PPE EV platforms. Originally planned for introduction with a highly aerodynamic sedan in 2026, Volkswagen Group has shifted its focus to a more volume-oriented SUV body style, leading to the revised debut timeline at the end of the decade.
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Schäfer’s announcement of a 2028 debut for the next-generation EVs indicates a firm commitment from Volkswagen to ensure the timely rollout of the SSP-based vehicles. This decision comes amidst lower-than-expected sales of MEB-based EVs, leading to production reductions at Volkswagen Group’s domestic plants in Emden and Zwickau.
The company’s move towards SSP-based EVs is crucial not only for its product strategy but also for maintaining investor confidence. Volkswagen Group has faced pressure from investors due to stagnant share prices, with any further delays in the SSP rollout potentially impacting investor trust.
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Despite the change in body style for the first SSP-based EV, Volkswagen remains committed to its ‘Trinity’ project, which includes plans for a model to be produced at the Zwickau plant. Additionally, Volkswagen has approved an SSP-based Golf EV for production in Wolfsburg, Germany, as the next generation of the iconic Golf model.
