Volkswagen has announced a new generation of compact electric hatchbacks to replace the ID.3 model. The new model will be called ID.3 Neo and will officially debut in mid-April, becoming the next stage in the development of the brand’s electric lineup.
One of the main features of the future model will be a new generation of software that will bring a whole range of new digital functions to the electric car. These include an improved Travel Assist driver assistance system, which is now capable of recognizing traffic lights, as well as One Pedal Driving mode, which allows the car to be controlled with virtually one pedal. In this mode, the recuperation system slows the car to a complete stop, returning energy back to the battery.
Other electric vehicles of the brand have already started receiving the new software. The first models with this platform were the Volkswagen ID.4, ID.5, and ID.7, which are already available for order with the updated Innovision infotainment system.
Another important feature is support for Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology. It allows the electric vehicle’s high-voltage battery to be used as a power source for external devices. Through special sockets or a charging connector, the car can supply up to 3.6 kW of power. This allows you to connect, for example, electric grills, coffee makers, lighting, or charge electric bicycles directly from the car.
All new models in the Volkswagen ID family will also feature the new Innovision multimedia system with enhanced digital capabilities. The built-in In-Car Shop will feature an integrated app store that will allow users to activate additional features or install new services after purchasing the car. Similar to smartphones, users will be able to download apps for streaming video, audio, parking, charging services, or even games.
Another innovation will be the digital car key. It will allow you to unlock and start the car using a smartphone or smartwatch. This feature works wirelessly, similar to mobile payments, and does not require the installation of a separate application.
Volkswagen has also revised the interior control concept. The new ID series models will feature physical buttons on the steering wheel, which should make controlling the main functions more intuitive and convenient.
At the same time, the company is upgrading the technical aspects of its electric vehicles. For example, the base versions of the Volkswagen ID.4 and ID.5 Pure have been equipped with a new 140 kW (190 hp) APP 350 drive system. It provides greater torque and better efficiency compared to the previous APP 310 motor.
In combination with a new 58 kWh lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery, this powertrain increases the range of the Volkswagen ID.4 by approximately 40 km in the WLTP cycle, while also improving the reliability and efficiency of the system.
When developing the new software and hardware, Volkswagen also took future regulatory requirements into account. These include the European Euro 7 standard, California’s ZEV3 regulations for zero-emission vehicles, and the EU GSR2 directive, which sets out new requirements for active safety systems.
