Do you think we are bluffing? Well, you may think so. Many may think that we are bluffing and using the name of “Volkswagen” for making the article hit. But, we will prove you wrong. Read the article to the last and find what Volkswagen has planned.
Volkswagen, the renowned German automaker, is set to electrify the Indian car market with the launch of its debut electric vehicle, the Volkswagen ID.4, slated for the end of 2024. This ground-breaking step marks a significant foray for the company into the burgeoning Indian electric vehicle (EV) sector. The Volkswagen ID.4 will be introduced as a completely built-up (CBU) model in a single configuration, reflecting the brand’s commitment to quality and premium features. Well, for the new readers of our blog, CBU means that it will arrive fully assembled, ensuring top-notch quality and seamless performance.
Introduction to Volkswagen ID.4
The Volkswagen ID.4 is a part of the brand’s global strategy for mass electrification, in alignment with their commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement 2030. This electric SUV is set to offer a range of up to 480 kilometers on a single charge, making it an attractive prospect for environmentally-conscious car enthusiasts. The introduction of the ID.4 is a key step in Volkswagen’s electrification journey in India.
Yes, Volkswagen ID.4 is the first contribution of Volkswagen to the electric cars market in India. Step by step we are covering all the “leaks” that we have got from reliable source, from technical specification to design elegance.
Technical specifications and design elegance
- Internationally, the ID.4 boasts multiple powertrain options, including single-motor rear-wheel-drive and dual-motor all-wheel-drive variants. With a claimed range of up to 480 kilometres on a single full charge, the ID.4 is ready to take you places without compromising on sustainability3. Imagine zipping through city streets or embarking on weekend getaways, all while leaving a smaller carbon footprint.
- The ID.4’s sleek design seamlessly blends form and function. Its aerodynamic contours, LED lighting, and spacious interiors create an inviting ambiance. Whether you’re commuting to work or embarking on a family road trip, the ID.4 ensures comfort and style.
- Volkswagen’s commitment to safety shines through in the ID.4. Advanced driver-assistance systems, robust construction, and intelligent features make every journey secure. As you navigate Indian roads, rest assured that the ID.4 has your safety at heart.
Market Strategy and Sales Expectations: to grow steadily in electric car (EV) market in India
Volkswagen has a plan to grow steadily in electric car market in India. No doubt Volkswagen management knows better abbot the new EMPS SCHEME 2024 and want to take advantage of it.
New readers may search our previous post to know the details of EMPS SCHEME 2024.
Volkswagen aims to grow at a pace exceeding the expected 5-7% growth of the Indian passenger vehicle market this year. The brand has set an ambitious target to boost its sales by 10-15% in 2024.
Michael Mayer, the executive director of sales at Volkswagen Passenger Cars, emphasized the ID.4’s launch as a crucial step in the brand’s electrification journey in India. Despite the focus on electric models, Volkswagen continues to offer internal combustion engine vehicles like the Virtus, Taigun, and Tiguan in India, catering to a broad customer base.
Volkswagen’s Growth Plans in India: to take up the EV market in India
Ashish Gupta, Brand Director at Volkswagen Passenger Cars India, highlighted the company’s 8% sales growth in 2023, with plans to boost sales by 10-15% in 2024. To expand its presence, Volkswagen aims to reach 170 cities with over 230 sales points and 150 service centers by the end of 2024.
The Indian government’s introduction of incentives for foreign EV manufacturers, including tax relief and reduced import taxes on select EVs, is expected to encourage local manufacturing and attract global investment in the EV sector.
Yes, as per new EV Policy 2024, India is opening its EV car market to the foreign EV makers. Volkswagen also aims that. In our previous post readers will get the full coverage of India’s new EV Policy 2024.
In brief, the main points of India’s new EV Policy 2024 are as follows:
- A minimum investment of $500 million with no upper limit.
- A maximum three-year timeline for establishing manufacturing facilities and starting commercial production of EVs in India.
- Attaining a 50% “DVA” (domestic value addition) within five years of starting operations.
- A 25% localization level by the third year.
- Vehicles of a minimum CIF value of $35,000 (Rs 29 lakh) will be charged a 15% customs duty (as applicable to CKD units) for five years.
- The customs duty foregone on the total number of EVs permitted for import would be limited to the investment made or Rs 6,484 crore (equal to incentive under the PLI scheme) whichever is lower. A maximum of 40,000 EVs at the rate of not more than 8,000 per year would be permissible if the investment is $800 million (Rs 6,664 crore) or more. The “carryover” of unutilized “yearly” import limits would be allowed by this policy.
- A Bank guarantee is needed for the investment commitment made by the company.
- The bank guarantee will be invoked in case of non-achievement of DVA and minimum investment criteria defined under the scheme guidelines.
About Volkswagen ID.4: Exterior and Interior
The Volkswagen ID.4 sports a sleek design with no radiator grille upfront, making the Volkswagen logo the center of attention. Wraparound LED headlights emphasize the car’s aerodynamic shape, while dynamic elements such as air scoops and honeycomb air dam add to its futuristic look.
The interior of the Volkswagen ID.4 continues the futuristic vibe, with most functions operated through touch or voice commands. The gear shift is replaced by a large rocker switch, and lighting controls sit conveniently to the left. In the middle of the dashboard, a large touch screen handles navigation, entertainment, and more, with customizable options for drivers.
Battery, Range, and Performance of Volkswagen ID.4
Internationally, the Volkswagen ID.4 is available in four different variants with both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) on offer. The ID.4 supports DC fast charging of up to 135kW that can top up the battery from 10 to 80 percent in just 28 minutes.
Rivals and Expected Price
Upon its arrival in India, the Volkswagen ID.4 is expected to be priced at around Rs 65 lakh (ex-showroom). It will go head-to-head with the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, Volvo XC40 Recharge, and the upcoming Skoda Enyaq.
Conclusion
The launch of the Volkswagen ID.4 marks a significant milestone in India’s transition to electric mobility. As one of the world’s leading automakers, Volkswagen’s entry into the electric car market in India will undoubtedly accelerate the country’s shift towards sustainable transportation. With its impressive range, state-of-the-art features, and the brand’s commitment to quality, the Volkswagen ID.4 is indeed a game-changer in the Indian EV market.
The upcoming years will indeed be exciting for the Indian EV sector as more and more manufacturers like Volkswagen enter the market with their innovative and environmentally friendly offerings. As adoption rates increase and infrastructure improves, India is well on its way to becoming a major player in the global electric vehicle landscape.
