While the rest of the automotive industry is in high gear busy planning releases for new fully-electric (EV) vehicles, Volkswagen seems to be stuck in neutral. The legacy carmaker has no EV launches planned for 2025, potentially making it a difficult year for Volkswagen who is already battling dwindling sales, Bloomberg reports.
Currently, Volkswagen’s EV offerings consist of the ID.Buzz, ID.3, ID.4, ID.5, ID.6, and ID.7, with the latter – in its Tourer wagon form – being the most recent addition, unveiled in February last year. The next EV model, the ID.2, is not expected to arrive until 2026.
Furthermore, Volkswagen is undergoing a period of restructuring, which includes potential layoffs and the possible closure of three plants in Germany. This restructuring adds pressure as the company seeks to adapt to the evolving automotive landscape.
Globally, Volkswagen is also experiencing slower-than-anticipated EV sales. In China, a crucial market for Volkswagen, domestic carmakers like BYD are outperforming Volkswagen with their competitively priced models that offer a compelling combination of features and technology.
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In response to these challenges, Volkswagen has partnered with Xpeng to develop new EV architecture in a bid to produce more affordable models. More recently, these two carmakers have expanded their partnership to build more EV fast charging stations in China.
In the US, Volkswagen has launched a sub-brand called Scout Motors, focused on producing electric pickup trucks. This move could help Volkswagen tap into the growing demand for electric trucks in the American market.
Additionally, the company has invested in Rivian Automotive, gaining access to Rivian’s advanced vehicle software and technology.
This investment could prove crucial in helping Volkswagen catch up with competitors in terms of technology and innovation, allowing them to implement Rivian’s advancements in future models.
On the local front, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has previewed the Volkswagen ID.4 Pro Performance back in 2022. Powering the ID.4 Pro Performance is a rear mounted electric motor making 204 hp and 310 Nm. Range is WLTP-rated at 531 km from a 77 kWh battery pack. Charging is supported up to 11 kW via AC charging and up to 125 kW DC charging.
Oddly enough, the model was never officially launched here despite making an official appearance.
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