Volkswagen has shared some details regarding its forthcoming ID4 electric vehicle, likely to be the first electric car from the brand to be sold in SA.

Volkswagen's details regarding this zero-emission SUV have been scarce until now and we can share a bit more infoabout what you can expect. There's a big focus on aerodynamics firstly, which will see the ID4's range stretch up to 500 km, depending on which drive package the customer has opted for.

When it launches, the Volkswagen ID4 will come with rear-wheel drive, while an all-wheel-drive model will come later. Built on Volkswagen's new MEB electric platform, the ID4 has interior space as a priority thanks to clever positioning of the battery in the underbody, which promotes a low centre of gravity, which in turn improves handling and balance.

As for the looks, we're glad to see there's some semblance of a normal production vehicle. Frequently, electric cars have resembled outrageous concepts with completely polarising designs. For electric cars to succeed, they need to look more generic and thus become more accepting by the mainstream public. The Volkswagen ID4 will be a global vehicle that's manufacturedand sold in European, Chineseand North American markets.

Volkswagen's goals are ambitious as it wants the brand to be entirely carbon-neutral by 2050 and it is currently investing 1 billion Euros to electrify its current portfolio. The Volkswagen ID4 will be fully revealed in 2020, with a potential SA introduction date towards the end of 2021.

Further Reading

VW's Electric Strategy Kicks off in SA

Electric Cars: Understanding the Terms

Why VW Should Build this Electric Bakkie

Volkswagen ID3 Goes Official

Volkswagen ID.4 set for mid-year debut

Volkswagen's EV plans for SA