After a long teasing campaign, VW has finally unveiled the full-electric ID.3
Volkswagen presents the pioneering ID.3 on the evening before the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt.
This vehicle is the symbol of a new era for the brand. The ID.3 eis the first model of a completely new generation of pure electric vehicles – featuring zero local emissions, efficiency, and full connectivity. At the same time, the ID.3 reflects the realignment of the Volkswagen brand, and is also the first model that sports the new simplified Volkswagen logo.
“The ID.3 is an all-rounder that is suitable for everyday use. It is compact, as such offering the manoeuvrability of a small car with the interior space of a mid-range vehicle. It combines exciting design with innovative technology and significant range,” outlines Silke Bagschik, Head of Sales and Marketing for the ID. family, on the evening before the IAA.
Like all future ID. models, the ID.3 is based on the new modular electric drive matrix (MEB), which has been designed for an electric drive system without compromise.
Designed for an electrifying future, it brings a new level of design quality to the compact vehicle category. “With the ID.3, Volkswagen is heading towards the future,” explains Klaus Bischoff, Head of Design of the Volkswagen brand, going on to emphasise: “The natural style and absolutely intuitive driver experience demonstrate a new, electric way of thinking.”
At series production launch, the ID.3 will be available with three battery size options. The basic variant has a usable energy content of 45 kWh and enables an electrically powered range of up to 330 kilometres (as per WLTP). The entry price for this ID.3 version is under €30,000. Alongside this is a battery variant with 58 kW, which enables the ID.3 to achieve a range of up to 420 km (as per WLTP). The energy content of the largest battery is 77 kWh, and its electric range is up to 550 kilometres (as per WLTP). Thanks to its fast charging capability, it is possible to charge the ID.3 sufficiently for a range of around 290 kilometres (WLTP) within 30 minutes, using a charging output of 100 kW.
The batteries themselves are integrated into the underbody. This positioning has a positive effect on driving dynamics, as it moves the centre of gravity in the ID.3 significantly lower. The ID.3 is also characterised by optimum weight distribution between front axle and rear axle.
ID.3 1st – the limited launch edition
Volkswagen started pre-booking for ID.3 1st – the limited launch edition – in May of this year. This permits interested buyers in Europe to place a non-binding reservation in respect of a production slot for the ID.3 1st for €1,000. From autumn, those who have pre-booked can advance their orders by entering the order phase with their respective dealership, and configuring their preferred version of the ID.3 1st.
The first edition – the ID.3 1st – has a 58 kWh battery which is driven by an electric motor at the rear axle. It generates 150 kW and delivers a maximum torque of 310 Nm, facilitating a maximum speed of 160 km/h for this 5-door vehicle. The ID.3 1st is priced at under €40,000.
The ID.3 1st will be offered in three fixed configurations that are geared towards typical customer preferences. In addition, the paintwork colour and the vehicle interior’s colour can be selected.
The basic version of the ID.3 1st includes a navigation system, a DAB+ digital radio, seat heating and steering wheel heating, armrests at the front, a Mode 2 charging cable and 18-inch light-alloy wheels.
The ID.3 1st Plus additionally features a rear view camera system, ACC Adaptive Cruise Control and Advanced keyless access locking and starting system. The vehicle interior of the ID.3 1st Plus also includes design seats, a centre console with two USB-C connections and ambient lighting. Forming part of the exterior equipment scope are tinted windows, the exterior Style package in silver, matrix LED headlights, matrix side lights, brake lights, turn indicators and tail light clusters as well as 19-inch light-alloy wheels.
The top-of-the-range version, the ID.3 1st Max, also includes an augmented reality (AR) head-up display, the Beats sound system, a large panorama sliding/tilting glass roof as well as 20-inch light-alloy wheels. The equipment list is topped by a lane-keeping system with Emergency Assist, a lane change system, telephony featuring contactless high-voltage battery charging and comfort seats.