The German car concern Volkswagen has skidded quite a bit with its electric car offer, so starting from 2026 it is planned to offer significantly revised electric cars of the ID model line, in an interview Autocar said Kais Grunitz, head of Volkswagen’s research and development department.
The updated models of the ID family will use a new, improved and greatly upgraded version of the MEB platform. He emphasizes that the cars will change radically visually, as Volkswagen returns to where they came from. Undeniably, the design of the ID model line has drawn mixed reviews. Technical and functional improvements in battery performance, as well as reduced costs, are also promised.
The goal of Volkswagen brand boss Thomas Schaefer is to make it a car loved by customers again, so a radical design change is expected. Future VW designs could be similar to the ID.2all concept car. The production version of this particular model could be ready late next year or early 2026. Grunitz calls it the starting point of the new Volkswagen, and customers will see that the changes are bigger than they think.
Currently, the technical development of the next generation SSP platform is also ongoing. It is considered the cornerstone of Volkswagen’s long-term plans, with the platform eventually replacing the MEB and becoming the basis for all VW electric models. We’ve already written about Volkswagen’s collaboration with Rivian, which gives VW access to Rivian’s software and electrical architecture. It is very likely that we will also see the products of the joint venture created by the two companies on the SSP platform and models built on it.
Despite the upcoming Euro7 emissions standards, Volkswagen will not abandon its smaller Polo model. The Polo’s time has been rumored for several years, but it lives on and a major upgrade is expected. However, Grunitz admits that the offer will be reduced. A wider offer of mild-hybrid versions is also expected for those customers who want a car with an internal combustion engine.
The representative of Volkswagen is not happy with the situation we are currently in, that is, we have to simultaneously develop the MEB electric car platform, work on the SSP next-generation electric car platform, and also work with MQB platform models with an internal combustion engine. No date has yet been set for when the MQB will be phased out, but a VW representative admits that the transition to electric cars is not happening as quickly as expected, so money and work must continue to be invested in various systems.
Volkswagen’s Electric Makeover: What to Expect From the New ID Models
Good evening, car enthusiasts and electric dreamers! Gather ’round, because it seems Volkswagen has hit the brake pedal hard on their electric cars, and instead of just a gentle skid, they’ve done the automotive version of a dramatic pirouette into a hedge – ‘Whoops, there goes our reputation!’
Yes, folks, starting in 2026, they’re promising a *significantly revised* lineup of their ID model family. Can anyone else hear the collective sigh of relief coming from the four corners of their engineering department? In a more serious tone, this news comes straight from the lips of Kais Grunitz, head honcho of Volkswagen’s research and development. So, really, he’s the one you want to hear from if you want to navigate the bumpy road to EV happiness!
Now, what exactly is in the overhaul toolbox? A new, improved MEB platform? Check! A radical design shift? Double check! ‘Radical’ is a funny word, isn’t it? I mean, were they seriously just NOT getting feedback from their customers before? Apparently, the original ID lineup was about as popular as pineapple on pizza—some folks love it, but let’s be honest, most would rather stick to good old margherita!
Volkswagen’s design guru Thomas Schaefer has set himself quite an ambitious goal: transform VW into a car brand people not only respect but actually adore again. We’re talking about a design akin to the ID.2all concept car. If it resembles that, we might be in for a visual feast instead of a visual famine! It’s about time they took a hard look in the mirror, and I hope they start seeing something a bit more appealing than, well, a flat tire!
But don’t let excitement get ahead of you just yet. For a company that prides itself on reliability, they’re juggling a few too many balls: developing the new MEB electric platform while simultaneously trying to jumpstart the SSP platform and keeping the MQB platform alive with one hand. It’s a bit like trying to levitate while also learning to juggle chainsaws! They’re aiming for a seamless transition to electric cars, but the reality seems to be similar to a snail on roller skates—slow and a bit awkward.
And let’s not forget the plight of the small Polo, which, despite all the talk of emissions, refuses to go gently into that good night. Rumor has it that it’s on the chopping block, but instead, it’s being refreshed which, let’s face it, may feel like putting lipstick on a very compact pig… charming, but still a pig. Expect a richer offering of mild-hybrid versions though, for those who cling to their internal combustion engines like a teenager to their first breakup!
Now, with the impending Euro 7 emissions standards looming overhead like a thundercloud, it seems that VW is feeling a rather pressing urgency. They’re caught in a bit of a pickle: develop their electric future while keeping the old faithful internal combustion engine alive for just a little while longer. Honestly, it’s like being at a buffet of choices and only realizing you can only afford to eat croutons and plain salad. Not ideal, is it?
All this brings us to the bittersweet truth: while the highways might eventually be populated with shiny new electric VWs, the current landscape is a minefield of competing technologies. The transition to electric is proving to be more challenging than we all anticipated! So what does that mean for us? More tantalizing news drip-fed to the public, and a slow ride into a greener automotive future. Buckle up, it’s going to be a bumpy ride!
In conclusion, Volkswagen might have strayed slightly off course, but with promises of change, upgrades, and a return to core values, 2026 could be the year they finally hit the accelerator again. Who knows? Maybe soon we’ll be seeing VW stickers on everyone’s bumper—everyone loves a redemption arc!
The renowned German automobile giant Volkswagen has experienced notable challenges regarding its electric vehicle lineup, prompting significant changes as it plans to introduce extensively revamped models from the ID series starting in 2026. In an enlightening interview with Autocar, Kais Grunitz, the head of Volkswagen’s research and development division, elaborated on these ambitious plans.
The forthcoming iterations of the ID family are set to leverage an advanced and enhanced version of the MEB platform, which promises to deliver a radically transformed visual aesthetic. Grunitz highlights that Volkswagen aims to reconnect with its design roots, particularly following the mixed reviews surrounding the current ID models. In addition to a refreshed appearance, the updated vehicles are expected to feature significant technical upgrades, improved battery performance, and a reduction in costs, all crucial for enhancing the customer experience.
Volkswagen brand chief Thomas Schaefer’s vision is to rekindle customer affection for the brand, prompting a comprehensive redesign. Inspired by the ID.2all concept, which hints at a more appealing future direction, the production variant of this model could be unveiled as early as late 2024 or early 2026. Grunitz emphasizes that this new model signifies the dawn of a reimagined Volkswagen, promising changes that will surpass customer expectations.
In tandem with these developments, the technical progress on the next-generation SSP platform is advancing. This new platform is fundamental to Volkswagen’s strategic long-term vision and is set to replace the existing MEB architecture, serving as the foundation for all upcoming electric models from the brand. Notably, Volkswagen’s collaboration with Rivian has opened access to sophisticated software and electrical systems, indicating that we may soon witness products emerging from this joint venture integrated onto the SSP platform.
Despite impending Euro7 emissions regulations, Volkswagen remains committed to the future of its smaller Polo model, which has faced rumors of discontinuation for several years. A substantial upgrade is in the pipeline, although Grunitz has acknowledged that the overall model offering will experience a reduction. Additionally, customers wishing to retain internal combustion engine vehicles can look forward to a broader array of mild-hybrid options.
The current predicament facing Volkswagen, as clarified by a company representative, involves the simultaneous development of the MEB electric platform while also advancing the SSP and maintaining operations related to the MQB platform models with traditional internal combustion engines. Although there is no definitive timeline for phasing out the MQB, it has been noted that the shift toward electric vehicles is progressing slower than anticipated, necessitating ongoing investments in multiple systems and technologies.
How does Volkswagen plan to balance its electric initiatives with the ongoing production of internal combustion engine models in light of tightening emissions standards?
**Volkswagen’s Electric Makeover: An Interview with Kais Grunitz**
**Interviewer:** Good evening, Kais! Thanks for joining us. Volkswagen has faced some challenges with its electric vehicle lineup recently. Can you share what changes we can expect starting in 2026?
**Kais Grunitz:** Absolutely! Starting in 2026, we will be unveiling significantly revised models from the ID family. Our goal is to re-establish a strong connection with our design roots and refine the overall customer experience, addressing the mixed feedback we’ve received on the current ID models.
**Interviewer:** That sounds promising! What specific improvements can customers look forward to in these revamped models?
**Kais Grunitz:** We are implementing an enhanced version of the MEB platform, which will facilitate a radical shift in visual aesthetics. Beyond just the looks, customers can expect major technical upgrades, including improved battery performance and reduced costs. This holistic improvement is focused on elevating the overall user experience.
**Interviewer:** It sounds like Volkswagen is really aiming to win back customers’ hearts. How does brand chief Thomas Schaefer envision regaining that affection?
**Kais Grunitz:** Thomas has a clear vision. He wants to create a car that not only meets expectations but is genuinely loved by our customers again. The design inspirations drawn from the ID.2all concept are a big part of this shift—it’s all about prioritizing visual appeal, innovation, and emotional connection.
**Interviewer:** With the transition to electric vehicles underway, how is Volkswagen managing its various platforms, like the SSP and MQB alongside the MEB?
**Kais Grunitz:** It’s definitely a juggling act! While we develop the new MEB platform and work on the next-generation SSP—which will ultimately replace MEB—we also maintain our MQB platform for internal combustion engine models. The transition to a fully electric lineup is happening, just not as rapidly as we initially anticipated. We are committed to investing in all systems to ensure a smooth evolution.
**Interviewer:** And what about smaller models like the Polo? Are there plans to keep it around in light of upcoming emissions standards?
**Kais Grunitz:** Yes, the Polo will not be phased out, contrary to some rumors. We are planning a major upgrade for the Polo, and while the lineup may be reduced, we will be introducing a broader offering of mild-hybrid versions. This approach provides more options for consumers who prefer traditional engines while we reinforce our electric future.
**Interviewer:** Looking ahead, how does Volkswagen view its role in the evolving automotive landscape, particularly with emission regulations tightening?
**Kais Grunitz:** We recognize the urgency that comes with new standards like Euro 7. We’re determined to balance our electric initiative with the requirements of existing combustion models. It’s a challenge, but one that we’re ready to tackle head-on. Our strategy is all about adapting and innovating to stay relevant in this rapidly changing market.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Kais! It sounds like VW has an exciting roadmap ahead. We look forward to seeing the changes in the ID lineup.
**Kais Grunitz:** Thank you for having me! We’re excited to bring these plans to fruition and connect with our customers in meaningful ways.
