- The Volkswagen ID.2 will probably be launched in 2026, with lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) batteries, which are typically cheaper than different chemistries.
- The model will implement LFP battery tech via the entire MEB lineup, together with the ID.3, ID.4 and ID.7.
- This new platform will probably be known as MEB Plus.
Volkswagen has been attempting to regulate its EV aspirations. It might have stumbled out of the gate with the middling ID.3 and ID.4, and its flailing software program arm, however it actually is attempting to proper the ship right here. It’s partnered with Xpeng and Rivian for higher in-car software program, whereas repeatedly updating its product line. VW’s most anticipated mannequin, the moderately priced ID.2, is on its approach quickly. That mannequin will introduce some main modifications that’ll unfold to the remainder of the Volkswagen lineup, one report claims.
In response to Autocar’s newest dialog with VW, ID.2 will mark the beginning of the model porting its complete mannequin lineup to new platform that’s cheaper to make. The platform will probably be known as MEB Plus, an evolutionary title that pushes the usual MEB platform ahead.
The largest change on MEB Plus versus MEB is the newer platform’s use of lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery cells. The tech could also be barely down on power density in comparison with the nickel-manganese cobalt (NMC) cells extensively utilized by Western automakers at present, however LFP batteries are cheaper. That is why they’re way more well-liked in China. The ID.2 could have LFP cells, however VW says that the tech will come to the remainder of VW’s MEB fashions not lengthy after the ID.2’s introduction. Which means the ID.3, ID.7 and—most pertinently for these within the U.S.—the ID.4 may get so much cheaper right here. The shift to LFP may also include full design overhauls on its EVs.
LFP batteries have gotten more and more necessary within the EV realm. In China, they’re turning into pretty widespread in even premier fast-charging autos, like Zeekr’s Golden Battery. Right here within the U.S. manufacturers like Ford, GM and Tesla have embraced the tech as a method to lower prices amongst their present fashions. LFP is a part of the rationale why the Chevy Bolt EV will have the ability to come again at the same worth.
It’s not clear how MEB plus will issue into Volkswagen’s U.S. plans. Autocar claims that VW’s new Salzgitter, Germany plant will provide LFP packs for the refreshed fashions, and some NMC packs for the outgoing fashions that can want them. However, because the IRA faces a major reorganization, it’s not clear if we U.S. battery manufacturing will develop as rapidly as in the remainder of the world.
May VW even promote a foreign-made battery in its U.S. EV choices with out vital hardship? Maybe it could or not it’s pressured to determine the place it may get these cells for U.S. consumption. Issues are very a lot within the air right here, and we simply received’t know till it occurs. We already know that the ID.2 is probably going a no-go for the U.S., sadly.
The Volkswagen ID.2 and the model’s full EV overhaul are anticipated to begin in 2026. Hopefully by then we’ll have some extra readability right here.
Contact the writer: Kevin.Williams@InsideEVs.com
