Volkswagen has stopped production of the Polo in Europe after 40 yearsshifting focus to smaller, more affordable electric vehicles. The historic factory in Pamplona, Spain, which has produced more than 8.4 million Polos since 1984, is now preparing to produce two new compact electric SUVs starting in 2026.
This change marks an important turning point for Volkswagenwhich aims to strengthen its presence in the market for affordable electric vehicles. Although the Polo was the eighth best-selling car in Europe in the small car segment, with over 90,100 units sold up to August 2024, the German company is looking to the future of electrification.
The future of Volkswagen is coming with a bang, bringing radical changes to the company.
The new electric SUVs They will be based on a modified version of Volkswagen’s MEB platformalready used for the ID series. Among these, theID.2alla model that will be positioned below the ID.3 with a starting price of less than 25,000 euros.
The ID.2all promises to combine iconic design elements of the legendary Golf and Beetle with a modern touch for the electric age. Andreas Mindt, head of Volkswagen design, said: “The ID.2 looks even better than the concept shown last year” and “provides a preview of Volkswagen’s new design language.”
The The ID.2’s interior has been designed to maximise spaceoffering a load volume of up to 1,330 litres, exceptional for a small car. A distinctive feature is the new rotary knob that allows the selection of different driving modes, inspired by the Beetle and Golf eras.
While Polo production in Europe has endedthe model will continue to be sold in the region, with production moved to Kariega plant, South Africa. Volkswagen has confirmed that it will continue to produce the T-Cross and Taigo models in Spain.
The company is already testing its new affordable electric vehiclewith its official debut expected in the near future. Additionally, Mindt teased the arrival of a slightly larger ID.2all SUV, expected in 2026.
This transition towards smaller, more affordable electric vehicles represents a significant step in Volkswagen’s strategy for electrification, aiming to meet the growing demand for sustainable mobility at competitive prices.
Source: www.tomshw.it
