ID.3 successor revealed
A press release issued today by Volkswagen in Germany reveals the ID.3 will receive an extensive update and a new name in the form of the ID.3 Neo, set for a world premiere in mid-April.
New features will be included, such as a digital key and extended app store. An enhanced operating concept with buttons on the steering wheel will also be incorporated.
Thanks to the latest software generation, the electric compact model comes with a host of new functions.
These include the enhanced Travel Assist with traffic light detection and One Pedal Driving, where the vehicle recuperates (a regenerative braking process) until it comes to a standstill.
In addition, all new ID. models now have the option of supplying power to external devices, such as electric grills to e-bikes, with an output of up to 3.6 kW directly from the high-voltage battery using the Vehicle-to-Load function.
The ID.4, ID.5 and ID.7 can already be ordered in Germany as the first models equipped with this software, the above-mentioned functions and the new Innovision infotainment system.
There are also new developments in the areas of engine and battery. The ID.4 and ID.5 Pure entry-level models are equipped with the APP 350, a new 140 kW (190 PS) drive system that offers increased torque and lowers fuel consumption compared with the previous APP 310 motors. This enables the range of the ID.4 to be increased by up to 40 km (WLTP).
Kai Grünitz, Member of the Volkswagen Board of Management responsible for Technical Development, said: “The new software generation brings more performance and an even better customer experience to the ID. models.
In current form, the ID.3 offers four battery sizes in the UK, from an ‘urban-focused’ 52kWh capacity through to the top-spec 79kWh battery pack on the hot GTX. The largest battery offers the longest range of any variant, at a quoted 369 miles, and we suspect this will only improve with new battery tech.
Fundamentally, the MEB platform will retain many of its key technical elements, including a rear-drive layout and sophisticated multi-link rear suspension. The switch to front-mounted motors and a more basic rear suspension will be reserved for the smaller MEB Entry models.
“The new Volkswagen electric models in the small and compact vehicle segments – ID. Polo, ID. Polo GTI, ID. Cross – will also soon be launched on the market with these new innovations, offering more flexibility in everyday life and for leisure activities.”
The current ID.3 is still available with great deals - click here to check out.
