The ID.3, which resembles the German automaker’s popular Golf hatchback. It will be the first vehicle built on the company’s new modular all-electric platform(MEB), one that will power dozens more cars and SUVs that are waiting in the wings as part of the larger Volkswagen Group’s multi-billion-dollar push into EVs.
It also takes the shape of a traditional five-door hatchback with an autonomous range of up to 550 kilometers (342 miles) depending on the battery option. The production of this car begins November this year (2019) Being based on modular MEB platform means the packaging of the ID.3 is its secret trump card , the high-voltage flat battery pack is mounted underbody to save space, while the auxiliary units, such as AC compressor or steering rack, are integrated into the front. The battery forms a compact unit together with the electric motor, mounted to the rear axle, and the single-speed gearbox. The smart packaging also allows for a low frontal drag coefficient of just 0.267, while the minimum curb weight is 3,790 pounds (1,719 kilograms).
Inside there is a more spacious cabin, drivers and passengers will find an interior that is more high-tech than what VW currently offers at lower price points. The central focus is a new 10-inch touchscreen that sits in the middle of the ID.3’s dashboard. But VW has also opted to rely on touch-sensitive buttons throughout the cabin. In fact, the only things that are controlled through physical buttons, VW says, are the windows and the hazard lights. The ID.3’s interior may not be as severe an exercise in minimalism as Tesla’s Model 3, but it’s just as dismissive of physical buttons
ID.3 will only charge at up to 50kW, and owners who want to charge faster (up to 100kW) will have to pay extra; 100kW charging will come standard on the mid-range 58kWh version, while even faster 125kW charging will be available on the top-tier ID.3. The company is also offering an eight-year /160,000-kilometer warranty on the ID.3’s battery pack. The range-topping offering has a 77-kWh battery pack for up to 342 miles (550 km) on a single charge. A 100-kW quick charger should provide juice for about 180 miles (290 km) in 30 minutes.
In terms of performance, the EV can accelerate rapidly this is because of the EV hatch’s electric motor on the rear axle, which pushes out 204 horsepower (150 kilowatts) and a peak torque of 229 pound-feet (310 Newton-meters). The top speed will be electronically limited to 100 mph (160 kph).
It comes nicely equipped with a satellite navigation system, heated front seats and steering wheel, 18-inch alloy wheels, and more. VW says this is comparable to the Comfort equipment line in the compact vehicle segment on the European market.
The more expensive Plus launch model also adds a parking camera, adaptive cruise control, keyless access, and system start, more refined upholstery, tinted windows, matrix LED headlights, and 19-inch wheels. There’s also a range-topping ID.3 1ST Max with a head-up display, Beats premium audio system, panoramic roof, and 20 inches.
Coming in at about $33,180, currently, the ID.3 will come in three variants that offer between roughly 205 and 340 miles of range. The EV is slated to be delivered in mid-2020.
