The Volkswagen ID.4, the brand’s first all-electric SUV, solidifies its status as a new global car leading the era of electrification while continuing the success stories of iconic models like the Beetle and Golf.

Last year, approximately 170,000 units of the ID.4 were delivered to customers worldwide, establishing it as the flagship electric vehicle of the Volkswagen Group. According to CleanTechnica, a US electric vehicle media outlet, 67,049 units were sold in 10 major European countries, including Germany, making it the best-selling electric vehicle among European brands.

In the US market, sales increased by 22.5% year-on-year to 20,511 units, driving the overall brand performance. In Korea, its first launch outside of production sites, the initial batch sold out immediately after its release in September last year, and within two weeks, it became the top imported electric vehicle model, with demand still remaining high.

Starting in the second half of last year, mass production of the ID.4 for the domestic market began in the US Chattanooga plant, and supply from the German Zwickau plant for Europe and export countries (including Korea) is expected to become smoother.

The popularity of the ID.4 is attributed to its competitive pricing and outstanding quality in the compact SUV segment, which is currently the most popular market worldwide.

Customers have praised the ID.4’s excellent body rigidity derived from the dedicated electric vehicle platform (MEB), which contributes to a fine driving experience, spacious interior, and an abundance of safety features as standard.

The ID.4, born from the MEB electric vehicle platform, offers a smooth driving experience similar to existing Volkswagen internal combustion engine models rather than an alien electric vehicle feeling. It boasts the shortest turning radius in its class and agile handling.

The domestically launched ID.4 can travel 405 km on a single charge, and it takes about 36 minutes to charge up to 80% using fast charging. It is equipped with cutting-edge safety and convenience features, including the ‘Emergency Assist’ system, a first in the country, the innovative interactive lighting system ‘IQ. Light’, a panoramic glass sunroof, and a three-zone Climatronic automatic air conditioning system with independent controls.

By Lee Sang-jin daedusj@autodiary.kr