Volkswagen ID. EVERY1: An Affordable Electric Vehicle on the Horizon

Volkswagen is excited to introduce the ID. EVERY1, a concept electric vehicle (EV) aimed at providing an affordable option in the ever-growing EV market. Priced around €20,000 (approximately $20,800 USD), the ID. EVERY1 is part of Volkswagen’s strategy to rejuvenate its business, which has been facing challenges in recent times.

Volkswagen’s Ambitious Plans

As leading automakers like Tesla have yet to deliver a true entry-level EV, Volkswagen aims to change the game with this new vehicle. The ID. EVERY1 will be an essential competitor, especially as the market sees an influx of affordable EVs from manufacturers in China. However, it remains uncertain if this model will reach North America due to current EV policy uncertainties.

Key Features and Specifications

The ID. EVERY1 will be positioned below another upcoming model, the ID. 2all, which will carry a price tag of €25,000. Presently, both vehicles are intended primarily for the European market, with production of the ID. 2all expected to commence in 2026 and the ID. EVERY1 in 2027.

Design and Size

The ID. EVERY1 is designed as a compact hatchback with some innovative features, including a modular center console. These characteristics will be shared with the ID. 2all model. Part of what Volkswagen calls the “Electric Urban Car Family,” both vehicles will leverage front-wheel drive versions of the company’s modular electric vehicle platform.

The production versions of the ID. EVERY1 and ID. 2all will utilize the second-generation Modular Electric Drive Matrix (MEB) platform, the current version of which already supports several models, such as the ID.4 SUV and ID Buzz minivan.

Performance Expectations

At its projected price, customers shouldn’t expect top-notch performance. The ID. EVERY1 has a top speed of 81 mph and is powered by a new electric motor that produces 94 horsepower (70 kW). While VW has not officially confirmed the battery size, the estimated range is about 155 miles (250 km), which is typically associated with a battery around 35 kWh.

Size and Capacity

In terms of dimensions, the ID. EVERY1 measures 152.8 inches long, making it about 27 inches shorter than the ID.4. Despite being compact, the hatchback can comfortably seat up to four passengers and offers 10.8 cubic feet of trunk space for luggage.

Advanced Software and Technology

One of the standout features of the production ID. EVERY1 will be its advanced software infrastructure. This system promises over-the-air updates, which has been a significant concern for Volkswagen in the past. Customers have faced software bugs and infrequent updates, but the new architecture aims to resolve these issues.

Aesthetic Appeal

The design of the ID. EVERY1 is described as chunky yet endearing, drawing stylistic elements from small SUVs, as well as from Volkswagen’s earlier models like the Up and Polo minicars. The new design ethos emphasizes simplicity and likability. It features a unique "flying roof concept," which provides a stylish appearance without compromising headroom inside the vehicle.

Innovative Interior Features

The interior of the ID. EVERY1 will borrow flexible designs from the ID Buzz. The modular center console is adjustable, allowing it to be moved to the rear of the car, while the dashboard includes a rail system for various accessories like shelves or a tablet. Additionally, there’s a removable Bluetooth speaker between the front seats, similar to features found in Rivian’s R1 vehicles.

Cost Efficiency Measures

In addition to promoting affordable EV prices, Volkswagen is also working to reduce production costs. After a recent labor strike in Germany, the company reached an agreement that will result in a reduction of approximately 35,000 workers, potentially saving billions annually.

Market Competition

As Volkswagen takes these steps, several other manufacturers are also venturing into the affordable EV segment. For instance, Hyundai and Kia plan to launch more budget-friendly models. Tesla has promised to unveil a lower-priced EV this year, and Ford is strategizing its own entry-level EVs as well.

The race for affordable electric vehicles is heating up, and Volkswagen’s ID. EVERY1 is positioned to be a significant contender in this evolving landscape. With its appealing price point and innovative features, it aims to connect with the everyday driver who is looking for a reliable and economical electric vehicle option.