The automaker wants to become entirely electric by 2035
This will start with the R division
Current ID. Models could be the first to receive an R version
Volkswagen announced it plans to make its R performance division into an entirely electric sub-brand by 2030.
This means that there will be no more gasoline-powered R models starting about five years before the last combustion engine is installed into a new VW vehicle.
The automaker has teased electric sports cars that could wear the R badge for a few years already, but nothing had happened on that front until now.
Apparently, the first electric R models will be more powerful versions of Volkswagen’s current ID. models, such as the ID.4 and the ID.3.
An R-badged ID.4 has been hinted at by the company’s chief of R&D last year, which suggests work is already underway on that vehicle.
This strategy also means that the Golf R might not have a direct successor since the gasoline-powered Golf is being abandoned in North America, with the Taos sub-compact SUV acting as its replacement.
In Europe, the ID.3 acts as an electric successor to the Golf since its shares its hatchback body style and its general dimensions with the older model.
Volkswagen says electric R models will benefit from technologies showcased by concept vehicles, which means they could be powered by a 671-horsepower drivetrain that was installed in the ID R concept that has been the Champion of Pikes Peak since 2018.
In addition to increased performances, R-branded EVs could benefit from faster charging rates than their Volkswagen counterparts, which would see the battery going from 10 to 80% in less than 25 minutes.
Furthermore, Volkswagen says owners of electric R models will have access to «Exclusive charging options», which probably means a reduced price per kW or a few dedicated charging stations.
The company has not said when to expect the first R EVs to roll off the assembly lines, but this might not happen for a few years still, judging by the other VW EVs that are in the works.
Source: Autocar
