Volkswagen EV Convertible could join ID.3 range according to CEO
VW CEO shares concept sketches of possible future electric ID.3 variant
Volkswagen’s CEO, Ralf Brandstätter appears keen on a drop-top variant of the electric ID.3 hatch, after sharing the following text and sketch image on Linkedin:
“An ID.3 convertible? Sounds quite appealing: enjoying nature with the top down, with the instant, but silent electric punch. This could provide an entirely new, extraordinary feeling of freedom. I admit: a very tempting idea. We are still pondering how to turn this attractive concept into reality. Just in case, our design team has already sketched out some initial ideas. The most exciting question: what do YOU think? Would electric driving and an open-air-experience make a perfect match?”
Of course, any new model has to go through a rigorous design and approval process; most manufacturers spend five-plus years developing a new model, meaning that this is a tease in the true sense of the word and that the ID.3 convertible is already a fait accompli for the brand in the coming years, or Brandstätter could genuinely be gauging public interest before the board gives the project a green light.
We’re a fan of Volkswagen convertibles with a Mark VI Golf cabriolet currently in our extended family. These ID.3 convertible sketches capture the blunt rear and deep sides of the early Golf cabriolets (though sadly without the roll-over hoop) whilst maintaining the ID.3 hatchback’s agressive, snub-nose front.
The ID.3 convertible has an uphill battle ahead though, with cabriolet and roadster sales on the decline in recent years, as more and more consumers around the world purchase SUVs (much to our chagrin). Mercedes-Benz has cancelled the SLC roadster, Mini has stated that the Mini Cooper cabriolet won’t make it to the next generation of vehicles and it could be last drinks for Audi’s iconic TT roadster.
If the ID.3 convertible does indeed make it to market, then it will be the first four-seat all electric vehicle on sale. When you think about it, an EV drivetrain is perfect for open top motoring: Zero noise means passengers are able to enjoy the sounds of nature as they whizz through the Schwarzwald or along the Côte d'Azur, and zero emissions results in a healthier driving experience.
The ID.3 hatch and ID.4 SUV are scheduled to arrive in Australia from 2023.
