Volkswagen unveils electric ID. Polo hatchback

Volkswagen has revealed the all-new ID. Polo, bringing its long-running small hatchback into the electric era.

Unveiled in Europe as a fully electric replacement for the petrol-powered Polo, the ID. Polo is positioned as an entry-level EV, combining compact dimensions with improved space, range and technology.

The model will be offered with front-wheel drive and three power outputs — 85kW, 99kW and 155kW. Entry-level variants use a 37kWh lithium iron phosphate battery delivering up to 329km of WLTP range, while higher-spec models feature a 52kWh nickel-manganese-cobalt battery with a claimed range of up to 454km.

DC fast charging is standard across the range, with both battery options able to charge from 10% to 80% in around 23–24 minutes under ideal conditions.

At just over four metres in length, the ID. Polo remains in the small car segment but uses Volkswagen’s dedicated EV platform to maximise interior space. Boot capacity increases to 441 litres, up from 351 litres in the outgoing Polo, and expands to 1240 litres with the rear seats folded.

The ID. Polo is the first production model to adopt Volkswagen’s new ‘Pure Positive’ design language, featuring clean proportions, a strong C-pillar and updated lighting signatures.

Inside, the cabin has been redesigned with a focus on digital interfaces and upgraded materials. A 10-inch digital instrument cluster is paired with a centrally mounted 13-inch infotainment screen, with options including a passenger display.

Volkswagen has also introduced new technology, including Connected Travel Assist, which can support steering, acceleration and braking while recognising traffic lights in some conditions. One-pedal driving is standard, and the model also gains vehicle-to-load capability, allowing it to power external devices with up to 3.6kW output.

Standard features include LED lighting, adaptive cruise control, wireless smartphone connectivity and advanced safety systems, with higher-spec models adding matrix LED headlights, upgraded interior finishes and comfort features.

Volkswagen brand chief executive Thomas Schäfer says the model plays a key role in the company’s electrification strategy.

“The ID. Polo brings a Volkswagen bestseller into the electric age. For decades, the Polo has been part of people’s everyday lives. With the ID. Polo, we are making electric mobility accessible to many more people: with clear and timeless design, intuitive operation, strong quality and technologies from higher segments. A genuine Volkswagen just like our customers expect from us,” Schäfer says.

Local availability has not been confirmed, but the ID. Polo signals Volkswagen’s push to expand its range of more affordable electric vehicles globally.