Volkswagen plans to launch its most affordable electric vehicle yet, the ID.1, in 2027 with a starting price of approximately €20,000 ($22,000), the company said. The compact electric hatchback will mark the German automaker’s first software-defined vehicle (SDV), built in partnership with U.S. startup Rivian.
Positioned below the upcoming ID.2all, the ID.1 is part of Volkswagen’s strategy to broaden its EV portfolio in the mass-market segment. “It’s the last piece of the puzzle,” Volkswagen brand CEO Thomas Schäfer said, referring to the brand’s vision of offering the widest EV range in its class.
See also: Volkswagen to Produce Entry-Level ID. EVERY1 in Portugal
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The ID.1 will use Volkswagen’s front-wheel-drive MEB platform and measure 3,880 mm in length—larger than the outgoing Up! but smaller than the ID.2all and Polo. A recent concept preview, the ID.EVERY1, provided a first glimpse of the production model’s proportions and design.
The vehicle will also be the first to incorporate next-generation software developed through Volkswagen’s joint venture with Rivian, announced in November. The $5.8 billion collaboration aims to co-develop SDV platforms for use across both companies’ future EV lineups.
See also: Volkswagen’s ID. EVERY1 to Be First EV Featuring Rivian’s Software and Architecture
“This is our first SDV and it will gain new functions with OTA [over-the-air] updates,” said Kai Grunitz, Volkswagen’s head of technical development. Lead designer Andreas Mindt has previewed the vehicle’s clean interior layout with improved tech and smart storage features in a new design animation.
With a targeted WLTP range of at least 250 km (155 miles), the ID.1 is expected to appeal to urban buyers seeking affordable zero-emission transport. It will follow the ID.2 and an SUV variant as part of Volkswagen’s plan to launch nine new EV models by 2027.
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Volkswagen brand CFO David Powels confirmed last month that the ID.1 project is ahead of schedule, thanks to efficiencies gained through the Rivian partnership.