Volkswagen has taken another step forward in its electric vehicle journey with the launch of the ID. Polo, its first fully electric version of the popular hatchback. This model is now making its way to Europe, aiming to compete with other electric vehicles such as the BYD Dolphin and MG4. The entry-level price for the ID. Polo is around $41,000, making it an attractive option for consumers looking to transition to electric mobility.
The brand has also teased a more performance-oriented variant called the ‘Clubsport’. According to reports from British publication Autocar, Volkswagen is working on this sportier version. This comes after the preview drive of the ID. Polo GTI, where Volkswagen dynamics boss Florian Umbach hinted at future developments.
“We are working on something,” Umbach told Autocar. “There is certainly more peak power that we can find from the motor and battery hardware that we have and more torque that the front axle could handle also. There is clear potential.”
Umbach also mentioned that Volkswagen is exploring a paddle shift style ‘gear-change’ system for the vehicle, similar to what Hyundai uses on the Ioniq 5 N.
“This is simply a software thing,” he explained. “It’s all about motor control and an audio soundtrack to match.”
However, there is a condition for the development of the Clubsport. According to Umbach, the success of the GTI will play a crucial role in determining whether these projects get the green light.
“These are the kinds of things that the executive board will only let us explore if the GTI is a commercial success, of course. If people respond to this car as it is, we can really take it to the next level.”
Despite the excitement surrounding the ID. Polo, its availability in Australia remains uncertain. The local arm of Volkswagen has not confirmed when or if the hatchback will be available in the country.
The ID. Polo is slightly shorter than its petrol counterpart, measuring 4053mm in length. However, it is wider at 1816mm and taller at 1530mm.
Powering the ID. Polo are three different motor options, delivering 85kW, 99kW, and 155kW respectively. The GTI version will produce 166kW, offering enhanced performance.
In terms of battery options, two sizes are available: a 37kWh battery providing up to 329km of range, and a larger 52kWh battery offering up to 454km of range.
Volkswagen continues to expand its electric vehicle offerings in Australia. The brand currently offers a range of electric models, including the ID. Buzz people mover, ID. Cargo van and Transporter, as well as the ID. 4 and ID.5 SUVs.
