VW Unveils Electric Concept Version of Classic GTI Hot Hatch
Volkswagen (VW) has revealed an all-electric concept version of its iconic GTI hot hatch. Dubbed the ID. GTI, the electric model is expected to go into production in the future. The concept was unveiled ahead of the IAA auto show in Munich, Germany.
The original Golf GTI, which was introduced in 1976, was the first VW model to feature direct fuel injection. The GTI designation has since been used for other performance-oriented models. The Golf GTI has become a popular choice among consumers looking for an affordable yet quick hot hatch.
With the ID. GTI concept, VW aims to carry on the heritage of the GTI name in the electric vehicle (EV) segment. The company has chosen to replace “injection” with “intelligence,” signifying the use of intelligent technologies in the sports-car world.
The ID. GTI concept is based on the ID. 2all, a small and affordable electric hatchback. While VW hasn’t disclosed the pricing details for the ID. GTI, the use of an inexpensive platform suggests that the electric hot hatch could be priced competitively.
In terms of specifications, the ID. GTI concept is slightly taller and wider than the Golf GTI, but shorter in length. It has similar cargo space as the Golf GTI with the seats folded down. VW has not provided any powertrain details yet, but it did mention that the production version of the ID. GTI will be front-wheel drive, similar to the ID. 2all.
VW plans to introduce a new system called “GTI Experience Control” in the ID. GTI. This system will allow drivers to adjust various aspects of vehicle dynamics, including adding simulated shift points and sounds to create a traditional gas-engine experience.
The exterior of the ID. GTI concept features sporty touches like a spoiler, rear diffuser, and front tow hooks. On the other hand, the interior is expected to incorporate an extensive augmented-reality heads-up display, although specific details and visuals have not been released.
Although a production date has not been announced, VW has confirmed that the ID. GTI concept will eventually go into production. The exterior design of the concept appears to be well-developed, while the interior and powertrain details are still being worked on.
This announcement has excited enthusiasts, particularly because many automakers are focusing on larger electric vehicles. The ID. GTI offers a refreshing alternative in the form of a sporty and practical hot hatch. However, some enthusiasts have expressed a desire for rear- or all-wheel drive options, as electric motors can be placed in various locations without the need for a driveshaft.
Overall, the ID. GTI concept showcases VW’s commitment to expanding its electric vehicle lineup while maintaining the performance and characteristics that define the GTI brand. EV enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting further details and the eventual release of the ID. GTI.
What are your thoughts on the ID. GTI concept? Let us know in the comments.