Volkswagen has unveiled a fully electric version of its iconic Golf GTI hot hatch, bringing the classic’s renowned performance to a new era of sustainability. While still in development stages, Volkswagen’s plans to launch an all-electric ID model reveal exciting possibilities for the automotive industry. The GTI (German Technical Institute) is deliberately designed for eventual manufacturing.
The electrical VW ID. The GTI concept was unveiled ahead of schedule at the IAA auto show in Munich, Germany.
The iconic Volkswagen Golf GTI, introduced in 1976, pioneered the use of gasoline injection technology, earning its name from a combination of “Grand Touring” and “Injection”. Volkswagen has extrapolated the GTI moniker to various performance-driven variants, cementing its reputation as a budget-friendly yet thrilling hot hatch that has defined the genre.
As Volkswagen lends its iconic “Electrifying the People’s Car” badge to its forthcoming all-electric ID model, it signifies a major milestone in the brand’s electrification strategy, highlighting its commitment to a sustainable future for mobility. Given its commitment to upholding the GTI’s legacy, the forthcoming GTI is likely to be a worthy successor. This sentiment is reinforced by Volkswagen’s decision not to apply the GTI badge to the ID.3 hot hatch variant, suggesting a deliberate effort to preserve the iconic nameplate’s integrity.
The Volkswagen brand is introducing a revolutionary new model called the ID., which signals a significant departure from its traditional vehicle lineup. Despite lacking a gasoline injection system, GTI will adopt the fundamental naming convention, substituting “intelligent” for “injection”. According to Volkswagen, the “I” now represents “innovative insight” within the sportscar community.
The ID. The GTI’s concept is built upon the ID platform. Two all, a compact and affordable electric hatchback. The all-electric Volkswagen ID. is expected to debut with a starting price under €25,000 (~$27,000 USD) before a standalone valuation is assigned by VW. GTI. While we’re optimistic it may be more competitive in the long run, starting small is indeed an excellent sign of a company’s willingness to adapt and learn.
Without additional specifications, we’re largely flying blind. The new model stands 1 inch taller than its Golf GTI counterpart, boasting a 2-inch width advantage, while measuring 7 inches shorter overall – albeit maintaining a mere 1-inch difference in wheelbase. Despite its compact dimensions, the car boasts virtually identical rear cargo space to the Golf GTI, only slightly reduced, yet offers a more generous load area when the seats are folded, all while riding on slightly larger tires and wheels. While many have scrutinized every detail Volkswagen revealed about its ID.4 electric SUV – excluding any information related to the powertrain, naturally –
What do we actually know about the ID? The GTI’s design is intentionally a front-wheel-drive vehicle, much like its predecessor, the Golf GTI. The all-new GTI Expertise Management system, designed by Volkswagen, promises to empower drivers with unprecedented control over their vehicle’s performance characteristics. This feature incorporates realistic sound effects and simulated shift factors, allowing you to mimic the experience of driving an automobile with a loud gasoline engine featuring a narrow power band instead of a superior electrical one, should that pique your interest for some peculiar reason (VW confirms that the fake gearshifts won’t make it to production, but the sounds likely will).
The exterior boasts a plethora of performance-inspired design cues, including a prominent rear spoiler, expansive rear diffuser, rugged entrance tow hooks, and sleek black side skirts.
While the concept is purely theoretical, the external components appear remarkably lifelike. The ultimate model will likely resemble this when we’re done.
While appearing confident and composed on the outside, individuals often struggle with internal conflicts that can be just as intense. Volkswagen claims that its next-generation infotainment system will require the integration of a comprehensive, high-definition augmented reality heads-up display.
Although VW hasn’t unveiled interior shots, concept renderings have been released. It appears to be somewhat futuristic in nature, perhaps even overly so, considering the current technological advancements and societal trends.
Who can confidently predict which render’s version will ultimately materialize? The forthcoming gaming console’s seats and 12.9-inch touchscreen display seem poised for production, with the possibility of a heads-up display (HUD) that might be slightly more subdued than conceptualized in initial illustrations.
Volkswagen has confirmed that the decision has been made to launch its ID. The company plans to enter production mode for GTI, but a specific timeline has yet to be announced. While the exterior design shares similarities, the interior remains incomplete, and the powertrain’s details are scarce; aside from the battery’s placement, which will lower the center of gravity, a common feature in electric vehicles. While we cannot predict exactly when it will happen, Volkswagen suggests that this event is inevitable and will ultimately unfold.
Electrek’s Take
As excitement swirled through the newsroom, we couldn’t help but remark on the proliferation of massive three-row electric SUVs that seem to be supplanting their more compact counterparts. It’s refreshing to see organizations offering alternative solutions, especially in the esteemed realm of hot hatchbacks, which are renowned for striking a perfect balance between thrill and functionality.
Just a few years ago, Mercedes-Benz unveiled its electric EQA sizzling hatch, but then unexpectedly reassigned the EQA title to a more mundane crossover SUV that blends seamlessly into the highway landscape, leaving enthusiasts eager for any updates on this innovative concept. As you may well appreciate, we are still perturbed by that fact.
A chance arises to acquire a genuine electric hatchback from the flagship model, offering a seemingly affordable price point and a manufacturer’s commitment, although with an undesignated release date and limited additional details.
We’re thrilled by this update on stability and look forward to hearing more. I mustn’t let this one follow the path that led to the EQA’s downfall.
While opinions may vary regarding the unconventional front-wheel drive configuration of this vehicle. While many sporty hatchbacks employ front-wheel drive, this is largely due to the fact that a gasoline-powered engine can easily fit beneath the hood and transmit power to the front wheels, eliminating the need for a driveshaft to transfer torque to the rear wheels, thereby conserving space and simplifying the design of these compact vehicles.
Without a traditional transmission or driveshaft, electric vehicles can install smaller motors almost anywhere in the vehicle. A rear- or all-wheel-drive layout can be relatively straightforward, offering efficiency benefits as well. By driving the rear wheels, a vehicle can accelerate more quickly, thanks to the weight transfer that occurs to the rear during acceleration.
While front-wheel drive has its benefits for novice drivers and slippery roads, it’s imperative that a high-performance vehicle like the GTI offers rear- or all-wheel drive options to cater to enthusiasts’ needs.
Although there’s still time before this car hits the road, we’re not privy to any specifications yet, so it’s possible those details are in the works. As we look to the future, we’re eager to learn more about affordable and fun-to-drive electric hatchbacks, especially since the Bolt EV is ending production this year – although Chevrolet has hinted at its potential return.
The iconic GTI concept: a high-performance hatchback born from Volkswagen’s motorsport heritage. Tell us within the feedback.
