VW aims ID7 electric sedan at fleet buyers, long-distance drivers

Volkswagen has given its new electric flagship, the ID7, an extremely aerodynamic shape and an updated electric drivetrain to increase its driving range to 700 km (435 miles) on Europe's WLTP cycle.

The long range makes the ID7 suitable for frequent drivers who cover long distances and fleet customers, VW said. The sedan's range is a key feature because the ID7 will be an all-electric alternative to the VW Passat, Europe's most popular fleet vehicle.

The ID7 will sit at the top of VW's ID range of MEB-based full-electric cars.

The sedan was revealed on Monday at the Shanghai auto show and online in Europe and New York. It will go on sale in China in the second half and in Europe by the end of the year. A version will be exported from Germany to U.S. dealerships in 2024. VW is targeting a range of 300 miles under the U.S. EPA test cycle.

Inside the cabin, the ID7 will come standard with what the brand calls an augmented reality heads-up display, projecting trip details including speed, road signs, and upcoming navigation help at eye level on the windscreen. The display adapts to what is in front of it, so that information such as current speed and speed limit appears in a virtual foreground, while navigation assistance and other features appear projected further away.

Above the center console, the ID7 has a 15-inch touchscreen that is new to MEB models. The customizable touchscreen display that operates most of the ID7's functions, including infotainment and cabin comfort. A pair of touch-sensitive sliding bars below the screen are used to adjust temperature and infotainment system volume, VW says.

The ID7's "smart glass" roof can transform electronically from clear to opaque, helping to keep interior temperatures comfortable while providing panoramic views.

The ID7's air vents are also digitally controlled and automated as part of what the brand calls an intelligent HVAC system, which can detect an approaching driver with their key and begin to precool or preheat the cabin. The vents adjust to heat and cool the cabin optimally as directed, aiming air straight at passengers or elsewhere, and respond to voice commands.

VW explained earlier that, if a driver says their hands are cold, the vehicle would not only heat the steering wheel, but also direct heated air at the driver's hands.

The ID7's coefficient of drag is an impressive 0.23, identical to the current generation Tesla Model 3. The design is augmented with LED lighting and distinctive lit trim strips across the fascia and rear.

Its 210 kW (282 hp/286 PS) drivetrain is the most powerful and highest-torque electric drive motor in a VW ID model to date.

The ID7's partial self-driving features include Travel Assist that can take over lateral and longitudinal control of the vehicle. The ID7 can also use Travel Assist to support assisted lane changing on the multi-lane highways at speeds above 90 kph. It will have parking assistance as standard.

The ID7 will be built in Emden, Germany, for the U.S. and European markets. In China, it will be produced by VW's joint venture with FAW.

The ID7's starting price in Germany will be well below 60,000 euros, company sources say.