Volkswagen has always brought some interesting concepts at Motor Shows and this year's 2016 Paris Motor Show is not going to be any different. After teasing its all-new electric vehicle a week ago, Volkswagen has now finally revealed, what it calls a revolutionary electric vehicle. Called the Volkswagen I.D Concept, the car uses a first of its kind Modular Electric Drive Kit. The production version of this new electric vehicle will debut in 2020 and the platform will eventually underpin a range of upcoming Volkswagen EVs.
The Production Version of the VW I.D Concept Will Debut in 2020
In terms of looks, the concept's design gives a preview of the standard five-door hatchback in the future. Without the need to cool an internal combustion engine, the designers can create a smooth front end with very short overhangs. The headlights have a novel design with adaptive LEDs in the centre that move around like eyes.
As for the powertrain, Volkswagen's I.D concept comes mated to a 125-kilowatt electric motor that can generate 168bhp. Volkswagen has integrated a single-speed transmission into the rear axle to propel the car. The car has a low centre of gravity thanks to the flat battery that is placed beneath the floor. The electric motor enables the new VW I.D to do a 0-100kmph sprint in under 8-seconds before it reaches a top speed of 158kmph. The company also intends to offer multiple battery capacities that would provide between 249 miles (401 km) and 373 miles (600 km) on a charge on the European cycle.
Volkswagen's I.D Concept Is Powered By a 125-kilowatt Electric Motor
Inside, the new Volkswagen I.D Concept is highly minimalistic as the only physical button controls on the dashboard is for the hazard lights. There are individual screens on each door panels that lets the occupants control the infotainment system. Rather than a gearshift, a capacitive panel on the bottom of the steering wheel lets drivers select Park, Reverse, Neutral, and Drive. Controls for the turn signals are also there.
In addition to these, Volkswagen's I.D Concept is also ready for autonomous technology as VW thinks this tech could be ready for showrooms for 2025. The steering wheel houses the control for the autonomous driving system. When you press the VW logo in the middle for a few seconds, the wheel retracts into the dashboard and laser scanners for navigating the vehicle emerge from the roof like little antennae.
Volkswagen I.D Concept's Cabin
The EV push is part of the company's new 'Together - Strategy 2025' and according to this plan, the company will launch 30 electric vehicles by 2020. VW is banking on making waves in the electric car segment and with significant investment going that way, the new concept is just part of the grand design.
For More From The Motor Show, Go To Our Complete Coverage of Paris 2016.
