Volkswagen will delay the start of production for its key electric models, the ID. Golf and ID. Roc, to 2030, after earlier plans had already been postponed. The company is also seeking a financially strong partner for its battery subsidiary PowerCo as it navigates cost pressures and slower-than-expected EV demand.
According to Handelsblatt, the Wolfsburg plant will begin production of the ID. Roc compact SUV in summer 2030 as the first model built on Volkswagen’s new SSP platform, followed by the ID. Golf. The Golf had originally been scheduled for 2028 and later shifted to 2029, while the ID. Roc was initially planned for 2029.
The decision comes as Volkswagen targets significant cost reductions. CEO Oliver Blume last year announced €15 billion in savings, with additional cuts expected. Lower EV sales, open questions around the SSP platform, and the complex relocation of combustion-engine Golf production from Wolfsburg to Mexico have further contributed to the delays. The transition also affects the planned move of the ID.3 and Cupra Born from Zwickau to Wolfsburg, which will now be pushed back.
Meanwhile, Volkswagen confirmed it will open the ownership structure of PowerCo, its battery unit, to external partners. PowerCo is building cell factories in Salzgitter, Spain, and Canada, and will supply the company’s unified battery cell. The automaker also plans to restructure other businesses, including exploring options for its robotaxi subsidiary ADMT/Moia and seeking buyers for Everllence, formerly MAN Energy Solutions, which could bring in around €5 billion.
Volkswagen’s next annual planning round in November is expected to clarify the production schedule across its plants, although the timing may be pushed back due to ongoing uncertainties, including Audi’s review of a possible U.S. factory.
