The Volkswagen ID.7 had its world premiere on the 17th (local time), marking its global debut.
Prior to this, Volkswagen released detailed information about the ID.7, which is designed for long-distance driving, including its powertrain and convenience features.
The newly unveiled ID.7 will serve as a model to strengthen the mid-size electric vehicle segment of the brand in markets like Europe and North America, becoming an important milestone in Volkswagen’s electrification strategy as a pure electric flagship sedan. The ID.7 is expected to launch in Europe by the end of 2023, and Volkswagen plans to expand its electric vehicle model share in the European market to 80% by 2030.
The camouflaged model of the new pure electric ID.7 is currently undergoing final driving tests in the Alicante region of Spain, where it is demonstrating the vehicle’s strengths on winding courses and mountainous roads.
Kai Grünitz, a member of the Volkswagen brand development board, stated, “We maximized the potential of the MEB platform with the ID.7. The ID.7 features a more powerful and efficient new electric motor, enhancing the quality of driving system control for a superior ride experience. Its excellent drive system, comfortable driving features, and long range indicate that the ID.7 is the optimal vehicle for long-distance journeys.”
The ID.7 is built on the newly developed high-efficiency electric drivetrain based on the latest MEB platform. The new electric motor delivers the most powerful output and the highest torque among all models of the Volkswagen ID family introduced to date. Internally codenamed ‘APP550’, this new power unit has been developed by Volkswagen Group Components in Kassel, Germany, where production is also handled.
The new electric drivetrain is optimized for energy efficiency in every aspect. Depending on the battery size, the ID.7 is expected to achieve a maximum driving range of up to 700 km and a maximum charging capacity of 200 kW according to WLTP standards, making it suitable for long-distance travel, especially for high-mileage customers or corporate clients.
The adaptive chassis control and driving dynamics control system offered as options for the ID.7 have undergone fundamental improvements tailored for long-distance driving. Through the driving mode selection feature, a wide range of options can be made between comfort mode and sporty mode. The newly introduced progressive steering system provides precise and intuitive driving sensations, along with maximized driving stability. These technologies are currently being validated through final driving tests in Spain.
The ID.7 offers a luxurious interior with ample space for both front and rear seats.
The cockpit in the driver’s seat has been redesigned, significantly reducing the size compared to traditional instruments. All essential information and warning alarms are displayed in the ID cockpit behind the steering wheel, allowing drivers to check crucial information via an augmented reality head-up display.
The centerpiece of ID.7’s display and operating system is the newly redesigned 15-inch infotainment display. The air conditioning control interface for the ID.7 is always displayed at the top of any menu, based on customer feedback. A direct access button that users can freely customize is also provided to assist with intuitive operations.
Volkswagen has developed next-generation driver and passenger seats for the ID.7. Depending on the version, options are available for seat adjustment in up to 14 directions, and the new massage function is designed for the adaptive Climatronic seats. In addition to individual settings, the driver and passenger seats can activate automatic mode based on seat temperature. Integrated temperature and humidity sensors in the seats can detect cooling or heating needs and control the seat environment accordingly.
The newly developed Ergo Active Premium seats provide a higher level of comfort with their massage function, setting a premium standard for upper-class models through the ID.7.
The outstanding performance of the ID.7 establishes its position as the pure electric flagship model within the ID family lineup. With a long driving range and agile handling, alongside a new operating system and spacious interior, it offers a high level of driving convenience.
Equipped with innovative technology and high-quality aesthetics, the ID.7 is set to firmly establish itself as a pure electric sedan model for long-distance travel in the competitive upper mid-sized segment.
Lee Sang-jin daedusj@autodiary.kr