Volkswagen has revealed the ID.7, the sixth all-electric VW model based on its MEB (Modular Electric Drive Matrix) electric vehicle platform, and the top model within its all-electric ID family of vehicles.

While based on the MEB, VW says the ID.7 has new, more efficient, drive generation – the AP550 (see page 44) – that includes a potent motor at the rear delivering 210kW (a dual-motor variant ID.7 is on the cards too). A new battery set-up, courtesy in part to a longer wheelbase than other ID models, allows for an 87kWh battery pack (other ID models can have a battery pack up to 77kWh) which the company says can deliver up to an 700km (WLTP) of range. That range is helped along by an aerodynamic design offering a drag coefficient of 0.23.

Charging capacities up to 200kW could be possible, enabling a recharge time for a 10-80 per cent top-up of 25 minutes.

The ID.7 will, no doubt, come packed with tech and comfort features. There will be a new operating and display concept and standard features including a 15-inch infotainment system screen, an augmented reality head-up display, a new air conditioning operating concept and a backlit touch slider.

VW says there will also be new optional massage seats and an electronically dimmable panoramic sunroof with smart glass that can be switched between opaque and transparent settings by touch control. Like many other functions in the ID.7, the roof can also be operated by means of natural voice commands. The range of options also includes a sound system from Harman Kardon.

Assistance systems available include Travel Assist with ‘swarm data’ – which VW says can take over lateral and longitudinal control of the ID.7 as needed, and support assisted lane changing on highways at speeds up to 90km/h.

“The ID.7 is an extremely important model for the Volkswagen brand in Europe, China and North America,” said Imelda Labbé, Member of the Brand Board of Management for Sales, Marketing and Aftersales. “The ID.7 offers an attractive package that will excite both existing and new Volkswagen customers all over the world. In this Volkswagen, we are offering premium technologies that impress through their exclusivity, premium comfort and high degree of everyday usability.”

The company says it is a ‘world car’ for the brand, and so the assumption would be that it will arrive in Australia at some point. Its other models – the ID.3 hatchback, ID.4 SUV, ID.5, and ID. Buzz (the electric Kombi) are reportedly set to land here in 2024.

Source: Motor Trader e-Magazine (May 2023)

30 May 2023