The new Volkswagen ID.2
Electric cars are nearly silent when starting up or driving. The absence of a combustion engine eliminates associated noises and the car starts instantly, without needing a clutch, and without vibrations. Because there is no gearbox, there is no need to pay attention to the engine speed to know when to shift gears. This silence obviously means a significant reduction in noise pollution, which is often a concern for people living on busy roads. Another benefit is the tranquility of the cabin, conducive to concentration, discussions, and listening to the radio or music. The drawback, however, is that the vehicle's silence can occasionally pose a danger to pedestrians who cannot hear the car coming. As a precaution, and to reduce this risk, a certain number of new low-emission vehicles now emit a sound when driving in urban areas.
Vehicle Reliability:
With the exception of tires and brake pads, electric cars have far fewer wearing parts (timing belts, pistons, exhaust pipes, spark plugs, etc.) than their petrol or diesel counterparts, so they are less prone to breakdowns, require no warm-up time, and are easy to drive (there is no gearbox). Unlike a combustion engine, the electric motor has optimal acceleration capacity from start-up or when resuming after a stop. It never stalls, thanks to the absence of a clutch.
Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions: The electric car contributes to the necessary ecological transition because its carbon footprint is advantageous: when it is in motion, it does not emit CO2 or hydrocarbon smoke and generates almost no fine particles (those emitted come mainly from the tires and brakes, in the case of electric models). If we consider the real environmental impact and air quality preservation, it is not strictly speaking a 100% clean vehicle. The manufacture of the vehicle and its battery in factories still generates CO2 and fine particles. The same is true for the supply chain of raw materials and emerging recycling streams, which focus on the recovery and valorization of components from end-of-life electric vehicles. Batteries, which are difficult to recycle, are sometimes transformed into "stationary" storage units.
No Traffic Restrictions:
As electric vehicles emit few chemical pollutants, they are not subject to traffic restrictions imposed during pollution peaks, unlike petrol or diesel cars.
Ease of Maintenance:
The need to replace brakes and pads, which are less stressed than with a petrol car, is also less frequent with an electric car. This is largely due to the braking system, which recovers some of the kinetic energy created by the car's movement to turn it into electricity and gain range. But there is a catch with the battery, which will usually start to show its first signs of weakness after eight to ten years of use (1,000 to 1,500 recharge cycles). Replacements are expensive, as evidenced by the figures provided by manufacturers: a new battery costs between €5,0001 (for the battery of a Nissan LEAF) and €8,5002 (for that of a Renault ZOE), not including installation costs. The solution? Anticipate this upcoming cost from the time of purchase by setting aside a sum for the possible replacement, or else choose to lease instead of buying. Leasing offers are now available from several manufacturers, who take care of maintenance and battery replacement when it no longer provides sufficient range. In this case, it is advisable to take out comprehensive insurance covering material damage (whether or not you are at fault): the battery can thus be reimbursed to the lessor in the event of an accident. Stylistically, the ID.2 breaks from the design language of Volkswagen's existing ID line of electric vehicles. Instead, it features a more traditional look with cues borrowed from the Polo and Golf models. The front and rear of the car are connected by a lighting strip, a design element that has appeared on some of Volkswagen's higher-end models. The C-pillar also harkens back to the fourth-generation Golf, with hidden rear door handles adding a touch of modernity. Inside, the ID.2 features a 12.9-inch touchscreen display that operates using an all-new operating system. Unlike some of Volkswagen's current models, the climate controls are physical buttons located on the lower portion of the center console. The console itself provides ample storage, and a central dial lets drivers select different driving modes. The vehicle's transmission remains located on the steering wheel. Despite its small size, the ID.2 offers a spacious interior with a generous amount of cargo space. With a length similar to the Polo at 4.05 meters and a wheelbase similar to the Golf at 2.60 meters, the car provides ample head and legroom for passengers. The trunk offers 490 to 1,330 liters of space, with an additional under-trunk storage compartment and a unique 50-liter storage area located beneath the rear seat. The rear seat can be folded in a 2/3-1/3 split to provide a maximum cargo length of 2.20 meters.
The ID.2 is based on Volkswagen's MEB Entry platform, which is designed specifically for smaller electric vehicles. It's expected to be a front-wheel-drive vehicle, and pricing is expected to be under 25,000 euros, making it one of the most affordable electric vehicles on the market when it's released. The ID.2 is part of Volkswagen's broader effort to electrify its lineup and rebuild consumer trust following the diesel emissions scandal that rocked the company in 2015. The company plans to release 10 new electric models by 2026, including the recently unveiled ID.3, a long-wheelbase version of the ID Buzz, and the upcoming ID.7 sedan. Volkswagen has made a significant investment in electric vehicle technology, with plans to invest more than 30 billion euros in electrification by 2025. This investment includes expanding its charging infrastructure and developing new battery technologies to improve range and reduce charging times. The ID.2 promises to be well-equipped, with standard features including adaptive cruise control, Matrix LED headlights connected by a lighting strip, parking assistance with memory, electric seats with massage function, wireless charging for smartphones in the center console and front seat backs, and a panoramic sunroof. Under the hood, the ID.2 features a powerful 166 kW (226 horsepower) electric motor powered by a 56 kWh battery pack that offers an estimated range of 450 km. Volkswagen claims the battery can be charged from 5 to 80 percent in just 20 minutes using a fast charger, and the vehicle comes with an onboard 11 kW AC charger. Overall, the Volkswagen ID.2 is a promising addition to the company's electric lineup. Its affordable price point, spacious interior, and impressive range make it an attractive option for consumers looking to make the switch to electric vehicles. As Volkswagen continues to invest in electric technology, the company is well-positioned to lead the way in the transition to a more sustainable automotive future. Another important factor that will impact the success of the Volkswagen ID.2 is the availability of charging infrastructure. While the range and quick charging capabilities of the car are impressive, it will be essential for Volkswagen to ensure that there are enough charging stations available for drivers to use, especially in more rural areas. This will require collaboration with other companies and governments to expand the charging network, as well as investments in technology and infrastructure. Additionally, the success of the Volkswagen ID.2 will depend on how it is marketed and positioned in the market. Volkswagen has faced significant challenges in recent years due to the dieselgate scandal and quality issues, so it will be crucial for the company to rebuild its reputation and regain the trust of customers. This will require a strong marketing strategy that emphasizes the benefits of electric vehicles and positions the ID.2 as an affordable, practical, and reliable option for drivers.
In conclusion, the Volkswagen ID.2 represents an important step forward in the company's efforts to become a leading player in the electric vehicle market. With its impressive range, quick charging capabilities, and affordable price point, it has the potential to appeal to a wide range of customers and help Volkswagen regain its position as a leading automotive brand. However, its success will depend on a variety of factors, including the availability of charging infrastructure, the company's marketing strategy, and its ability to maintain high quality standards. Only time will tell whether the Volkswagen ID.2 lives up to its potential and becomes a popular and successful electric vehicle.