Volkswagen’s 20,000-Euro EVs Are Coming In 2027
Cheaper Electric cars are finally on the horizon, at least for Europe. The Volkswagen Group announced on Tuesday that it has been developing compact Electric vehicles priced around 20,000 euros, equivalent to $21,700. These new models are set to debut in 2027.
The need for affordable electric vehicles is crucial in driving the shift away from fossil fuels. While Chinese automakers have been successful in producing low-cost electric cars due to economies of scale, the rest of the world has struggled to follow suit.
Although these budget-friendly electric cars won’t be available immediately, they play a vital role in the long-term transition. Currently, electric vehicles are more expensive than traditional combustion engine cars, particularly in Western markets. This price gap needs to narrow for broader consumer adoption of electric vehicles. In China, where electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles make up half of car sales, EVs can be purchased for as little as $5,000.
To meet the growing demand for electric vehicles, companies like Volkswagen must introduce affordable mainstream options in the coming years. Otherwise, Chinese manufacturers, known for their aggressive export strategies, could dominate the market.
Volkswagen plans to release a series of EVs priced around 25,000 euros, including compact cars and small SUVs, by the end of 2025. The introduction of the 20,000-euro models in 2027 is a natural progression for the brand. Their current entry-level electric vehicle, the ID.3 hatchback, starts at approximately 40,000 euros.
While details about the 2027 models are scarce, Volkswagen hinted at a small hatchback design. It remains unclear if these models will be available in the U.S., as Volkswagen emphasized that they are designed “from Europe, for Europe.”
However, other automakers like Kia, Chevrolet, Volvo, Ford, and Tesla are also preparing affordable EV options for the U.S. market. As electric vehicles gain popularity among consumers, brands aiming to attract mainstream American buyers will need competitively priced EVs in their lineup. Therefore, it is likely that Volkswagen will introduce a compact SUV model in the U.S. sooner rather than later.
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