- Europe is moving at light speed toward electrification.
- R EV cars will have access to exclusive charging options.
Europe is moving at light speed toward electrification and there seems to be a looming hard stop for sales of gasoline and diesel vehicles on the continent in 2035. Automakers are actively working toward full electrification before then, including Volkswagen. Volkswagen, a German brand, is already on track with its Way to Zero pledge with a plan for an all-electric lineup by 2035 and will transform its R performance sub-brand five years earlier than that.
According to AutoCar, a UK publication, a Volkswagen representative said it would be “gradually converting its portfolio, with several electric R models in the planning stages. We’re currently assessing various concepts and possibilities but will only offer R models that meet our requirements. One thing is certain: the future of R is electric.”
Considering the instant-torque qualities of EVs like the ID.4 ( “ID” in the name stands for Intelligent design and the number 4 represents its place in the compact SUV segment), a performance variety will be even more fun to drive, and enthusiasts eager to jump on the early-adoption train will likely buy the R variants first. As for the rest of the population, the uptake remains to be seen. The driving public seems to be trending toward the speed of charging more than acceleration. Also, drivers choosing R EV cars will have access to “exclusive charging options” that are presently undefined.