ANOTHER DELAY, MORE PROMISES: VOLKSWAGEN’S ID.2 SAGA CONTINUES

Volkswagen has once again pushed back the launch of its budget-friendly electric vehicle (EV), the ID.2. The new target is set for the first quarter of 2026, with the exact release date still to be decided.

Despite this setback, Volkswagen isn't resting on its laurels. The German automaker is shifting gears to bolster its EV lineup by giving the existing ID.3 and ID.4 models a major overhaul, aiming to sharpen its competitive edge in the EV market.

ID.3 and ID.4 Set for Comprehensive Makeovers

Volkswagen is gearing up to unveil a substantially redesigned ID.4 in fall 2025. This refresh is so extensive it's practically a full model change. The updated ID.4 will boast a high-performance APP550 electric motor, an enhanced battery architecture, and the advanced Modular Electric Drive Matrix Plus (MEB+) platform. The exterior styling will also receive a significant update, blending modern design with nods to Volkswagen's heritage.

Hot on the heels of the ID.4 update, the ID.3 is slated for a major upgrade in early 2026. Responding to consumer feedback, Volkswagen will ditch the criticized slider controls in favor of more user-friendly physical buttons.

The ID.3's interior will feature the same fabric materials as the ID.2, and its front-end design will also see changes. This strategy positions the ID.3 as a key player in Volkswagen's lineup until the next-generation e-Golf makes its debut.

Cost-Effective EVs Embrace LFP Battery Technology

The ID.2 is set to break new ground for Volkswagen, becoming the brand's first model to utilize lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries. These LFP cells are more cost-effective than the current nickel-manganese-cobalt (NCM) batteries, making them an ideal fit for budget-conscious EVs where price competitiveness is crucial.

Volkswagen Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Thomas Schäfer stated that starting next year, it'll be rolling out the MEB+ platform and LFP batteries across the ID series. Further noting that this strategic move is expected to yield both cost savings and performance improvements.

The automaker's new battery plant in Salzgitter, Germany, is also gearing up to produce LFP cells in-house.

Competitors Eye Opportunity as Volkswagen Regroups

The postponement of the ID.2 could create an opening for rival brands. For instance, Renault, is already preparing to launch its Renault 5 and Renault 4 models, priced around 25,000 EUR (approximately 28,300 USD). The French automaker is moving quickly to establish a foothold in the European affordable EV market.

Meanwhile, Volkswagen has been forced to adjust its strategy due to software integration challenges and production bottlenecks. The eventual relaunch of the ID.2 may represent more than just a new model introduction, potentially signaling a comprehensive brand revitalization aimed at enhancing overall quality and competitiveness.

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2025-05-21T03:22:50Z