Volkswagen’s all-electric ID.3 has made its world debut at the Frankfurt motor show.
The firm’s first purpose-built all-electric vehicle, it’s based on a bespoke pure-electric platform that’s destined to underpin several other models.
Initially offered in “1st Edition” specification, it’ll come with a 201bhp rear-mounted electric motor linked to a 58kWh battery. That means the ID.3 will travel between 186 and 261 miles on a single charge, according to Volkswagen.
All of those 1st Edition cars have already been reserved, with first deliveries expected to arrive in the UK next summer.
Around the same time, the remainder of the ID.3 models go on sale. A lower-powered 148bhp variant will be available – with a range of between 143 and 205 miles – along with a more powerful version with 201bhp and a 77kWh battery. Volkswagen says this version will be able to travel up to 342 miles between trips to the plug.
The car is just 3mm longer and 19mm wider than the regular Golf but arrives with a wheelbase 145mm longer than the traditional hatch. That should result in better interior space. Boot space is decent too, at 385 litres.
Inside, the cabin has been kept uncluttered, with a main floating “panel” the primary source of infotainment. At 10in, it features Volkswagen’s “touch-sensitive bar”, letting the driver control various climate options.
UK prices are yet to be revealed, but the ID.3 1st Edition is claimed to be “under ¤40,000” (circa £35,900).
