Paris show: VW teases electric future

VOLKSWAGEN has hinted at its electrified future by teasing a concept car that will make its debut later this month at the Paris motor show.

The German car-maker has revealed little about the concept, but said in a short statement that it would be a one-of a kind car as it signals VW’s greater focus on electrified vehicles.

“The vehicle is as revolutionary as the Beetle was seven decades ago before it evolved into the world’s best-selling car of the century,” the company says in the statement. “The concept car has the potential to make history with its completely new vehicle concept.”VW added that the production version of the concept would be the first model built using its new modular electrification kit (MEB) that will underpin up to five new electric vehicles in the coming years.

A production version of the quirky Budd-e MPV concept revealed at January’s Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas is also likely.

Overseas reports are suggesting the Paris concept will preview a Golf-sized electric hatchback with boosted interior space thanks to the cleverly positioned battery pack.

Other reports have suggested that the new EV could have an electric driving range of between 400 and 480km, with charging taking as little as 15 minutes.

Volkswagen Group announced its Together – Strategy 2025 plan in June that will see the Group launch more than 30 EVs across multiple brands over the next 10 years.

Some of the models likely under this plan include the Porsche Mission E, Volkswagen’s next-generation Phaeton luxury sedan and an electrified Audi e-tron quattro all-roader.

The focus on electrification was expedited following the unfolding diesel emissions scandal with the company allocating significant research and development investment into EVs.

The EV concept will be revealed in full at the Paris motor show. Keep an eye on GoAuto for more.