Sitting on MEB underpinnings, the ID7 promises to be the most efficient EV in Volkswagen’s range
Following an extensive anticipation-building campaign, the curtain has finally been lifted on Volkswagen's ID.7 electric sedan. This cutting-edge vehicle is expected to take the reins as the brand's worldwide mid-size model, succeeding the upcoming Passat that is predicted to be available exclusively as a wagon.
Designed with a five-door liftback body and a flat underbody, the ID.7's sleek silhouette commands an impressive drag coefficient of 0.23, making it Volkswagen's most aerodynamically efficient vehicle to date. The ID.7 boasts the most substantial dimensions among Volkswagen's electric lineup, with an estimated length of 5.0 metres and a wheelbase approximately 3.0 metres long.
The 2024 Volkswagen ID.7 is scheduled to debut with a single-motor, rear-wheel-drive model featuring the newly developed AP550 motor. This potent engine offers a peak output of 210kW and a torque of 545Nm, outstripping any other electric motor previously seen on Volkswagen's MEB all-electric platform. According to Volkswagen, this model can accomplish a 0-100km/h sprint in roughly 6.0 seconds when fitted with the lightest battery pack.
In the future, an anticipated GTX variant of the ID.7 may be introduced, which would combine the AP550 motor with a supplementary front motor, pushing the total power to around 290kW.
The ID.7 incorporates several improvements on the MEB platform. For instance, it raises the bar for fast-charging speeds, peaking at 200kW compared to the 170kW and 125kW limits on earlier models. Additionally, the European Pro S variant will be equipped with a whopping 86kWh battery pack, the largest ever fitted on an MEB vehicle, promising an impressive 700km range according to the WLTP testing cycle.
Inside, the ID.7 welcomes drivers with a redefined interface featuring a large 15.0-inch infotainment touchscreen. Additionally, it offers an array of exciting features, such as an augmented reality head-up display, adaptive front seats with heating, cooling and drying features, a premium Harmon Kardon sound system, and an electrically adjustable panoramic glass roof.
Also, the ID.7 will include the Travel Assist feature for semi-autonomous driving functionality and automated parking, which can be overseen either from within the car or via a smartphone app.
Sporting a considerable size for an electric sedan, the Volkswagen ID.7 stretches approximately 5.0 meters in length. This makes it larger than many vehicles in its class, ensuring a spacious interior and providing ample legroom for passengers. The width of the ID.7 is 1862mm, adding to the car's overall stability and interior space, while its height is 1538mm, offering sufficient headroom for occupants.
The ID.7 sits on a lengthy wheelbase of about 3.0 meters, one of the largest in Volkswagen's electric lineup. A longer wheelbase often translates into a smoother ride, as it helps distribute the car's weight more evenly and puts more distance between the front and rear wheels. This also typically provides more interior space, specifically adding to the rear legroom and boot space.
Speaking of boot space, the ID.7 doesn't fall short. It comes with 535 liters of luggage space under a sizeable tailgate at the rear. The lack of a traditional engine under the hood, typical of electric vehicles, allows designers to use the car's footprint efficiently.
To complete the design, the ID.7 features a liftback-style design that enhances the vehicle's aerodynamics while also making it easier to load and unload cargo. Unlike some of its competitors, however, the ID.7 does not have a 'frunk' or front luggage compartment, instead opting to use that space for other components.
This promising sedan will hit the European and Chinese markets in the third quarter of 2023 and is expected to reach the US by 2024. While official pricing details are yet to be released, UK prices are anticipated to be around £50,000 ($92,000).
The ID.7 will be produced at Volkswagen's Emden plant in Germany, with additional manufacturing for the Chinese market taking place locally. This revolutionary model marks a significant stride in Volkswagen's electric ambitions, with the ID.7 sure to make waves in the global EV market upon its arrival.