We’re just a few weeks away from the 2017 Detroit Auto Show, where VW will reveal a new electric I.D. concept vehicle. Just a few months ago, VW previewed its new electric car with the I.D. hatchback debut in Paris, and now the automaker is set to reveal a new model from the same family.
Right now we only have a few teasers photos, but the newest I.D. concept appears to be an electric van. VW says the concept “forges links between the legendary origins of the Volkswagen brand and its electrifying future,” which is a strong hint that it will be inspired by the original Microbus. Under the skin, the new I.D. concept will be based on the same Modular Electric Drive Kit (MEB) platform as the hatchback, but two electric motors will give it all-wheel drive. It will also have a long driving range, which shouldn’t be too far off from the hatchback with its 373 mile driving range.
Related: VW’s new electric car goes further and costs less than the Tesla 3 or Chevy Bolt
The newest I.D. concept will preview VW’s take an autonomous future. The driver simply has to press on the Volkswagen logo on the steering wheel to make he steering wheel disappear into the dashboard. The driver is then allowed to relax, while the concept’s laser scanners, ultrasonic and radar sensors, and cameras monitor other road users and surroundings.
VW hasn’t confirmed when the production version of the Microbus-inspired I.D. concept will arrive, but the I.D. hatchback will be the first model to arrive in 2020.
All images @VW
