The visionary I.D. combines the digitally connected world with an electrically powered car that, when desired, can drive fully autonomously. The concept car celebrated its world premiere last year at the Paris Motor Show. At CES Volkswagen is presenting it for the first time to the American public. The production version of the I.D. is planned to launch as early as 2020 and then also to be ready for fully autonomous driving starting in 2025.
Electric drive. The first compact Volkswagen to be based on the Modular Electric Drive Kit (MEB), the I.D., is powered by a 125 kW / 170 PS electric motor. Its maximum range of up to 600 kilometers and a target price on a par with a Golf with an engine of comparable power make the matter of 'zero emissions' something that can be taken in stride.
Design. At the same time the I.D. presents a totally new design style. In the interior, for instance, Volkswagen has realized an open-space concept: somewhat shorter than a Golf, it offers the spaciousness of a Passat. This was made possible by the new drive concept architecture with an electric motor on the rear axle and a high-voltage battery in the vehicle floor, which enables a long wheelbase with short overhangs and thus more space and flexibility. At the same time, the I.D. already takes us ahead to the year 2025: in 'I.D. Pilot' mode the I.D. is the first Volkswagen concept car to offer fully autonomous driving. 'I.D. Pilot' is activated by touching the VW logo on the steering wheel, which then disappears into the instrument panel and gives the driver an entirely new feeling of space.
From every perspective the exterior looks highly engaging. Everything is very clear. Sturdy volumes, maximum precision, a charismatic front end, iconic C-pillars, flowing, sculpted surfaces and expressive wheels define Volkswagen electric mobility.
Connectivity and control. A lot of what Volkswagen is showing at this year's CES will be found again in the I.D. Drivers will open and turn on the I.D. using their smart phone as a Digital Key. Their personal seat and air-conditioning settings, favorite radio stations and media playlists, sound system settings, contact details of friends and business partners and the configuration of their navigation systems will be stored in their personal Volkswagen User-ID. Also on board: the AR Head-up Display and Eyetracking.
In this way, the I.D. combines the themes of the Connected Community, Intuitive Usability and Smart Sustainability – and supplements them with autonomous driving. Bring on the future!