It used to be that a model would be in production for around 5 years before a new generation succeeded it. That is the norm but some manufacturers may shorten or lengthen that period depending on various circumstances. With increased competition and technologies being improved at a faster pace, especially for electric vehicles (EVs), the 5-year cycle might be too long.
It was in 2019 that Volkswagen introduced its new ID designation for a new family of battery electric vehicles, with the first model being the ID.3 which was launched at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Now, after just 3 years, the carmaker is preparing to launch the second generation of the model in early 2023.
Following the ID.3, other ID models have been launched in the past three years with more than half a million already sold. With the EV market being relatively young, it is still a period of learning for the carmakers as they gain more understanding of how customers view EVs and what they expect.
In coming up with the new version, the development team considered a range of suggestions from customers in order to improve the product and enhance the standard equipment package. “The needs of our customers are always front and centre for us. That’s why we listen carefully and focus on gearing our product portfolio to their requirements,” said Imelda Labbe, Volkswagen Board Member for Sales, Marketing and Aftersales.
While continuing to use the modular electric drive matrix (MEB) developed for Volkswagen Group models, the new ID.3 will have the latest software generation which improves system performance and can receive over-the-air updates. Owners will therefore be able to enjoy optimised performance during the years after purchasing the car, without the need to go to a service centre for software updates.
Functions such as Plug & Charge and the intelligent Electric Vehicle Route Planner will make charging the new ID.3 even more straightforward and convenient. In addition, the standard equipment package has had an upgrade which now includes a display with a diagonal measurement of 30.5 cm (12 inches), a removable luggage compartment floor, and a centre console with two cupholders.
The new ID3 will also have the latest generation of fully integrated driver assist systems. Notable features will be are the optionally available Travel Assist with Swarm Data and the Park Assist Plus with Memory Function. The latter system is a more advanced version of Park Assist Plus and learns recurring parking manoeuvres to repeat them independently. The memory function of the parking assistance system enables the vehicle to be taught how to carry out up to 5 parking manoeuvres.
“Part of our mission at Volkswagen is to offer state-of-the-art technologies and innovations across all models, including compact vehicles, and the ID.3 exemplifies this. For example, when it comes to new convenience and assist systems, we are taking the next step forward on the way to highly automated driving with the use of swarm data in the latest Travel Assist,” explained Kai Grunitz, Member of the Volkswagen Brand Board of Management responsible for Development.
Customers in Germany can already start ordering the new ID.3 which is available in 5 versions, with prices starting from €43,995 (around RM203,400). However, the company says that those who order even during this month will only be able to receive their new ID.3 from the fourth quarter of 2023 onwards because demand is high. The model is presently produced in two factories, with a third to be added next year to increase output.
Visit www.volkswagen.com.my to know more about Volkswagen models available in Malaysia.
