Volkswagen is poised to make electric vehicle ownership more accessible with the upcoming launch of a low-cost EV. After initially hinting at the concept with its ID. Life vehicle in 2021, the company is planning to unveil the new model in March 2025, with availability expected in 2027, according to The Verge.
At an anticipated price of €20,000 (approximately $20,800), this EV is slated to be among the most affordable on the market. This initiative represents another significant step in the company’s broader e-mobility strategy. As stated by the CEO of Volkswagen’s Passenger Cars brand, following the conclusion of negotiations in December, “A key step in this is making e-mobility attractive for everyone — that is our brand promise.”
This move is welcome news for many consumers who have been hesitant to embrace EVs due to their higher initial costs. Not only will buyers potentially save money on fuel and maintenance, but they’ll also benefit from a lower purchase price, all while experiencing the Volkswagen brand. The new all-electric entry-level model, as stated by the chairwoman of the General and Group Works Council of Volkswagen AG, “will be a Volkswagen in the genuine sense of the term.”
Volkswagen’s push for more affordable EVs has the potential to positively impact both consumers and the environment. The lower cost could encourage more people to switch to electric, resulting in reduced air and noise pollution thanks to quieter engines and fewer tailpipe emissions.
While the environmental benefits of EVs are often touted, it’s also important to consider the potential impact of mining the minerals needed for battery production, as well as any increased pollution from manufacturing. However, the environmental footprint of mining is far less than the continued use of fossil fuels. Moreover, the materials used in EV batteries can be recycled, unlike the non-renewable nature of dirty energy. EVs can also offset the environmental costs associated with their creation. According to a study from MIT, EVs produce 150 grams less carbon air pollution per driven mile compared to traditional vehicles. In fact, a Tesla Model 3 needs only 13,500 miles of driving to offset the environmental impact of the manufacturing process.
Overall, the transition to EVs is an eco-friendly move, and more affordable options could make a large difference in creating cleaner air.
