- Volkswagen will unveil the ID.3 Neo in mid-April as the successor to the current ID.3.
- Updated ID.4, ID.5 and ID.7 models gain new software, app integration and digital key access.
- Entry-level ID.4 and ID.5 variants now use a 140kW motor and 58kWh LFP battery.
Volkswagen has confirmed the successor to its ID.3 electric hatchback will be called ID.3 Neo, with the revamped model scheduled to make its world debut in mid-April.
The renamed EV arrives alongside a wider digital update across Volkswagen’s electric line-up, bringing new software, fresh features and subtle hardware tweaks to models including the ID.4, ID.5 and ID.7.
New name, smarter software
At the centre of the update is Volkswagen’s latest software generation, which introduces a range of new functions designed to improve everyday usability and driver assistance.
One highlight is an upgraded Travel Assist system that now includes traffic light detection, while a new One Pedal Driving mode allows the car to slow and recover energy until it comes to a complete stop without using the brake pedal.
According to Kai Grünitz, Volkswagen’s board member responsible for technical development, the upgrades are designed to improve both performance and ease of use.
“The new software generation brings more performance and an even better customer experience to the ID. models.”
The new operating concept also returns physical buttons on the steering wheel, a move aimed at making key vehicle functions easier to control without navigating multiple touch menus.
Power for your gear... literally
Another notable addition is Vehicle-to-Load capability, allowing the car’s high-voltage battery to power external equipment.
Using a 230V outlet or the charging port with an adapter, the system can deliver up to 3.6kW of power, which is enough to run devices such as electric grills, coffee machines or charge items like e-bikes directly from the vehicle.
Volkswagen is also introducing a digital vehicle key, enabling drivers to unlock and start their car using a smartphone or smartwatch. The system communicates wirelessly in a similar way to contactless payments and supplements the traditional physical key.
More efficient entry-level EVs
Alongside the software upgrades, Volkswagen has also updated the entry-level versions of the ID.4 and ID.5.
These models now feature the new APP 350 electric drive motor producing 140kW, replacing the previous APP 310 system. The new unit offers improved torque and better efficiency.
Paired with a 58kWh lithium-iron phosphate battery, the upgraded drivetrain boosts range by up to 40km in the ID.4 under WLTP testing conditions.
Looking further ahead, Volkswagen says upcoming electric models in the smaller segments, including ID. Polo, ID. Polo GTI and ID. Cross, will also launch with the same new technology package.
For now though, all eyes are on the ID.3 Neo, which will soon reveal how Volkswagen plans to evolve its core electric hatchback for the next phase of its EV push.
