Volkswagen’s R performance sub-brand has confirmed that it will go fully electric by 2030. It is reported that all R models will adopt the Volkswagen Group’s upcoming electric-only Scalable Systems Platform (SSP), albeit with performance-oriented tweaks.
According to Autocar, Volkswagen said that it is “gradually converting its portfolio, with several electric R models in the planning stages”, adding: “We’re currently assessing various concepts and possibilities but will only offer R models that meet our requirements. One thing is certain: the future of R is electric.”
Since the SSP is an electric-only platform, this means that electric variants of the current R range such as the VW Golf R, VW Tiguan R, and VW T-Roc R would likely only come if the models get electric replacements in the future (built on SSP). This also implies that current ID models will be the first to get all-electric R versions.
Like their Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) counterparts, the electric R cars will also get trickled-down technology from prototype concepts, such as the Volkswagen ID R which currently holds the Pikes Peak record. Volkswagen also assures that all electric R models will continue to be developed on track.
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In another report, Volkswagen confirms that the electrified R sub-brand will also focus on quick and convenient charging for its customers. Currently, the fastest charging rate for a Volkswagen electric vehicle (EV) is 150 kW as shown in the Volkswagen ID.5 GTX. With a 150-kW rate, the ID.5 GTX charges from 10% to 80% in 25 minutes. Volkswagen R EV owners may also get exclusive chargers or subsidized charging prices.
Volkswagen R head, Reinhold Ivanz confirmed, “In order to become a fully electric brand by the end of the decade, we’re already taking the necessary steps today for the forthcoming transformation. The globally successful products from Volkswagen R are part of this exciting change process and will stand in [the] future for sustainable electric mobility.”
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