Volkswagen Up! To Return As Entry-Level EV By Close of Decade

Remember the quirky and affordable Up! supermini that Volkswagen sold locally until 2020? It seems set to make a return as a budget EV for the European market.

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is in the process of developing an entry-level electric city car which will likely bear the ID.1 name as a likely continuation of the iconic and popular Up!.. Expected to launch in 2026, it follows the release of the ID.2 and aims to compete in the sub-€20 000 (R400 000) category. Technical details are scarce but according to Kai Grünitz, technical development boss, the model is on track and noted that the ID.1 will adhere to the brand’s design DNA and functionality while being more affordable.

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Although Grünitz did not confirm the return of the Up! badge, the potential use of familiar and successful names aligns with Volkswagen’s strategy for other models like the Golf, Passat, and Tiguan. The company is committed to offering affordable electric options to appeal to a broader customer base, emphasizing the need for a smaller, cost-effective EV to convince consumers of the viability of electric vehicles.

The model will reportedly be based on the same platform as the ID.2 to keep costs down and ensure its affordability as a pure city car. Grünitz further suggested that the ID 1 might eschew high-end technology, potentially opting for a smartphone cradle instead of a touchscreen, aligning with a focus on practicality and efficient use of space.

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Regarding profitability, Grünitz hinted at the ID.1 possibly serving as a ‘loss leader,’