Volkswagen Unveils Future Naming Strategy with ID. Polo Model Introduction

Volkswagen's Innovative Naming Strategy for Future Models

Volkswagen is steering its future with a fresh take on its model naming strategy. The automotive giant has decided to transfer well-known names from its internal combustion engine (ICE) legacy vehicles into its electric vehicle (EV) ID. family. The first model to bear this name will be the ID. Polo, set to debut in 2026, formerly known as the concept car ID. 2all.

A Legacy of Excellence

Thomas Schäfer, CEO of the Volkswagen brand, emphasizes that Volkswagen's model names have a significant place in consumers' hearts. He states, "These names symbolize a powerful brand and embody qualities such as superior craftsmanship, timeless design, and technology for everyone." This strategy acknowledges the importance of these familiar names as Volkswagen advances into the realm of electric mobility. The ID. Polo marks the start of integrating classic names into electrification, symbolizing a commitment to the brand’s heritage while looking toward the future.

The ID. Family: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation

Volkswagen's products will now consist of both ID. vehicles and conventional ICE models under their established names. This dual approach not only allows for a seamless transition but also enhances customer understanding of the Volkswagen lineup, merging the traditional with the modern. As part of this narrative, the ID. nomenclature stands as a beacon of cutting-edge technology and electric mobility. Meanwhile, Polo has always represented high quality, safety, and democratized innovation.

The forthcoming ID. Polo encapsulates these attributes and will emerge during the 50th anniversary of the original Polo. Martin Thunder, Volkswagen's Director of Sales, Marketing, and After Sales, points out that names like Polo carry significant weight, representing reliability, individuality, and history. This name will not only resonate with long-time fans but also evoke a sense of familiarity for new customers, bridging their past experiences with the future of e-mobility.

The Future is Electric

Volkswagen is set to release a second ID. model in the compact segment that promises to stir emotions among customers. Martin comments, "One of our strongest brands, GTI, is making its way into the electric realm. The ID. GTI Concept will transition into the ID. Polo GTI, expected to deliver exceptional driving dynamics and pleasure to all enthusiasts."

Both the ID. Polo and ID. Polo GTI will be publicly revealed with camouflaging at the IAA Mobility event held in Munich from September 8 to 14. Prior to this, the new ID. CROSS Concept, a compact electric SUV, will be introduced, with its production version anticipated to be launched as the ID. Cross, an electrified counterpart to the T-Cross by the end of 2026.

This inaugural unveiling of compact electric vehicles ushers in an exciting new era for Volkswagen. Models like the ID. Polo and ID. Cross signal a commitment to making electric vehicles more affordable than ever. These new offerings reflect Volkswagen's responsiveness to customer feedback—upgraded materials, a mix of digital and physical controls, along with intuitive operation designs showcase the brand's dedication to quality.

A New Chapter for the ID. Family

Introduced in 2018, the ID. family signifies Volkswagen’s independent electric vehicle lineup. The first model was the ID. 3, which has since been followed by other models categorized by their respective numbering based on vehicle segments. The largest model yet is the ID. 7, available as a sedan and an estate, which has become a market leader in Germany and Europe.

With this progressive strategy, Volkswagen is poised to strengthen its foothold in the automotive industry, catering to both traditional and forward-thinking customers alike, while ensuring that innovation does not outpace familiarity.