Volkswagen (VW) has unveiled the prototype of its first electric compact SUV, the ID.4, and the production model of the electric ID.3, which was announced in 2019.

The ID.4 is under development as the second model in VW's new generation of electric vehicles, the "ID." family, and the prototype was unveiled today. The "ID." stands for intelligent design, identity, and innovative technology, while the number 4 represents a new model in the compact SUV segment.

The ID.4 utilizes VW's dedicated electric vehicle platform, the MEB (Modular Electric Toolkit), which allows for the use of numerous modular drive components.

Initially, rear-wheel drive is planned, followed by a powerful electric all-wheel drive option. The high-voltage battery is installed beneath the passenger cell, ensuring a low center of gravity and balanced axle load distribution. The battery can be charged via AC, DC, and three-phase AC as standard. Depending on the drive package, a single charge can provide a range of up to 500 km.

The exterior boasts refined aerodynamics, with short overhangs and a long wheelbase creating a spacious and bright interior, referred to as an "open space," for the driver and passengers. The cockpit allows for operation of almost all functions through simple touch controls and voice commands that understand everyday conversation.

Production at the Zwickau plant will be conducted in a CO2-neutral manner across the entire value chain, making the ID.4 the world's first compact SUV to be produced this way. It is scheduled for release in Europe within 2020.

The Volkswagen ID.3, a new generation electric model from Volkswagen, began pre-orders in spring 2019 and production in the latter half of the same year. The limited-edition launch model, capped at 30,000 units, has already received 37,000 orders. Today, three variations of the production model have been announced: "ID.3 Pure," "ID.3 Pro," and "ID.3 Pro S."

The entry-level "ID.3 Pure" is equipped with a 45 kWh battery, offering a maximum range of 330 km (WLTP) on a full charge. The motor mounted on the rear axle is available in two output levels: 93 kW/126 PS and 110 kW/150 PS. The price in the German market starts below €30,000.

The "ID.3 Pro" features a 58 kWh battery with a maximum range of 420 km (WLTP). It comes with two output levels: 107 kW (146 PS) and 150 kW (204 PS), priced below €35,000.

The top-tier "ID.3 Pro S" is equipped with a 77 kWh battery and a 150 kW (204 PS) motor. It boasts a maximum range of 550 km (WLTP) on a full charge. Sporty features include 19-inch alloy wheels and "Play & Pause" design pedals.

All three models can be charged via AC, DC, and three-phase AC. The ID.3 Pro, with its 100 kW fast charging capability, can gain approximately 290 km of range in just 30 minutes.

Two interior variations, "Style" and "Style Plus," and two exterior variations, "Style Silver" and "Style Penny Copper," are available, allowing users to easily configure their ideal ID.3 on the website.

Additionally, attractive optional features are offered, such as the Beats sound system, an augmented reality (AR) head-up display that projects information three-dimensionally 3 to 10 meters in front of the driver, and the "Travel Assist" system, which maintains distance to the vehicle ahead and assists with lane changes based on turn signal activation and traffic conditions.

To coincide with the ID.3 hitting European roads in summer 2020, Volkswagen has initiated large-scale investments to become a global leader in e-mobility over the coming years. By 2025, the company aims to produce 1.5 million electric vehicles, establishing efficient EV factories not only in Germany but also in China and the United States.

Furthermore, Volkswagen is introducing its proprietary charging card, "We Charge," enabling users to access public charging stations across Europe. They have also developed the "ID. Charger" wall box for efficient home charging. In collaboration with dealers, the company plans to install 36,000 charging stations by 2025.