Volkswagen is making strides in the electric vehicle market with the production of its entry-level EV, the ID.2. The first pre-series battery systems for the ID.2 have started rolling off the assembly line, marking a significant milestone in the development of this low-cost electric vehicle.
The ID.2, which was first introduced over two years ago, is getting closer to its official debut as Volkswagen ramps up production of parts and batteries at its Martorell plant in Spain. SEAT S.A., the company leading VW’s new Electric Urban Car Family, recently announced the production of the first body parts for the ID.2 using a new PXL press that will also be utilized for the CUPRA Raval in 2026.
Markus Haupt, Interim CEO of SEAT and CUPRA, emphasized the importance of 2025 as a “decisive year” for the company as it prepares for series production of its new entry-level EV lineup. The Martorell plant has undergone significant upgrades, including the implementation of both automated and manual production tasks, with plans to fully robotize processes and employ around 500 workers.
With an investment of €300 million, the Martorell plant will have the capacity to produce up to 300,000 batteries annually, with series production expected to begin in 2026. The ID.2 will be the first Volkswagen EV to be based on the new MEB+ platform and feature a low-cost LFP battery system, promising a range of up to 450 km (280 miles) on a single charge.
The ID.2 is positioned as a spacious and affordable electric car, starting at under €25,000 ($27,000) when it hits the market later this year or in early 2026. Volkswagen is committed to delivering “huge improvements” with the ID.2, drawing inspiration from iconic cars of the past like the Golf.
One unique feature of the ID.2 is the ability to switch between “Classic” and “Vintage” drive modes, giving drivers the nostalgic feel of older Volkswagen models. The ID.2 will be followed by the ID.2 SUV and the smaller, more affordable ID.1, which will be Volkswagen’s first software-defined vehicle (SDV) developed in collaboration with Rivian.
Overall, Volkswagen is set to launch ten new EVs by 2026, with a focus on delivering quality, affordable electric vehicles to the market. The ID.2 and its upcoming counterparts represent a new era for Volkswagen as it continues to innovate in the electric vehicle space.