The upcoming Volkswagen ID.1 offers a refreshing take on affordable electric vehicles, combining cheerful design, everyday usability, and genuine Volkswagen build quality — all at a starting price projected around £16,500. Ideal for first-time EV buyers, city dwellers, and small families, the ID.1 delivers big brand trust in a compact, budget-friendly package.
Contents
Specs Snapshot
Make / Model / Year / Variant: Volkswagen ID.1 (Production version of ID.Every1 Concept)
Price Range: Expected from £16,500 (approx. €20,000 in Europe)
Powertrain Type: Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV)
Top Speed / Acceleration: 81 mph / Estimated 0–62 mph in under 11 seconds
Claimed Range: 155 miles (250 km) WLTP
Transmission / Drive Type: Single-speed automatic / Front-wheel drive
Market Availability: Europe-first rollout (UK, Germany, Spain) in 2027
Key Highlights
- Brand Milestone: Volkswagen’s most affordable EV yet, targeting true mass-market adoption.
- Design Heritage: Inspired by the iconic VW Up! and Polo, with fresh, friendly styling.
- Tech/Powertrain Breakthrough: New cost-effective front-wheel-drive MEB platform with 38 kWh LFP battery.
- Regional Relevance: Will compete against Dacia Spring, Leapmotor T03, and other budget EVs in Europe.
- Best-in-Class Offering: Real-world usability at a headline-grabbing price under £17,000.
Design & Styling
The ID.1 takes on a simple, solid two-box design that echoes the enduring appeal of the VW Up! It features clean surfacing, friendly “human-eye” headlights, and a chunkier stance with a longer bonnet to evoke a sense of safety and strength. Black-painted A-pillars visually stretch the cabin, while the absence of decorative cladding saves costs and accentuates its minimalist, confident look. The design boss draws parallels to unadorned legends like the Porsche 911 and Defender for its “pure form” aesthetics.
Interior & Features
Inside, the ID.1 promises simplicity without austerity. A large central touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support dominates the dashboard, paired with a return to physical controls for essential functions like volume and temperature.
A movable center console enhances practicality for shared users or families, and clever rail systems allow attachments like shelves or tablets. While base trims will focus on affordability, higher-spec models will offer more luxuries.
Powertrain & Performance
- Engine/Motor Type: 70kW single front-mounted electric motor
- Power Output: Approximately 95 hp
- Battery Size: 38 kWh LFP battery
- Acceleration: Estimated 0–62 mph in under 11 seconds
- Range: 155 miles WLTP
The ID.1 prioritizes everyday drivability over performance thrills, with smooth, silent acceleration ideal for city and suburban commutes. LFP battery chemistry promises robust longevity and low costs.
Technology & Innovation
Volkswagen listened to feedback on previous ID models: the ID.1 gets faster, simpler infotainment with a flatter menu structure, physical controls for key features, and intuitive usability aimed at rental and fleet drivers as well.
Other innovations include a removable Bluetooth speaker integrated into the dashboard, highlighting the ID.1’s playful character.
Ride Quality & Handling
The ID.1 will leverage a lightweight platform and compact dimensions for easy city navigation.
Its low center of gravity, front-wheel-drive layout, and torsion beam rear suspension are tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling. Expect a composed, confidence-inspiring ride with a nimble turning circle for tight urban streets.
Safety
The ID.1 is expected to come with a robust standard safety package, likely including:
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
- Lane Keep Assist
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Six airbags. Volkswagen emphasizes a reassuringly sturdy structure and clever passive safety design, including extra roof stiffening.
Pricing & Value
With a starting price expected around £16,500, the ID.1 undercuts most mainstream electric cars while offering the full Volkswagen ownership experience.
Affordable leasing plans and low running costs (especially energy vs. petrol savings) should make it attractive to budget-conscious buyers.
| Variant | Estimated Price (UK) |
|---|---|
| ID.1 Base | ~£16,500 |
| ID.1 Plus (upgraded trims) | TBD |
Volkswagen is targeting price parity with small petrol cars when factoring in fuel and lease costs.
Comparison to Other Models
- Versus Dacia Spring: Higher build quality, more spacious, but a slightly higher price.
- Versus Leapmotor T03: Better design and brand reputation, similar range.
- Versus e-Up! (old model): Slightly shorter range but more modern tech and platform.
Where the ID.1 shines: brand credibility, usability, and design quality.
Where it may lag: slightly modest range compared to larger EVs.
Final Verdict
The Volkswagen ID.1 brings a breath of fresh air to the entry-level EV segment. By combining a cheerful design, genuine VW engineering, usable real-world range, and aggressive pricing, it could become the new go-to EV for young drivers, city commuters, and anyone ready to embrace electric mobility without breaking the bank.
If Volkswagen can keep production costs low and quality high, the ID.1 could be a game-changer for the mass EV market.
Ratings
- Design: 4.5/5
- Performance: 3.8/5
- Technology: 4.2/5
- Safety: 4.0/5
- Value: 5.0/5
Overall Rating: 86/100
FAQs
Q: What is the real-world range of the Volkswagen ID.1?
A: Volkswagen targets at least 155 miles (250 km) WLTP range.
Q: Is the Volkswagen ID.1 available in the UK?
A: Yes, it is expected to launch in Europe, including the UK, in 2027.
Q: Does the Volkswagen ID.1 support fast charging?
A: Fast charging details are not fully confirmed, but quick charge capabilities are expected.
Q: How does the Volkswagen ID.1 compare to the Dacia Spring?
A: The ID.1 offers higher quality, a more spacious interior, and stronger brand backing for a slightly higher price.
Q: Is the Volkswagen ID.1 worth it?
A: For budget EV buyers seeking a real Volkswagen experience, the ID.1 is poised to be an excellent choice.
