VW mulls high performance EV

The ID Vizzion

VW's upcoming range of ID electric vehicles could receive a sport-oriented R model, Autocar reports, based on comments by R division head Jost Capito. The full range of models is currently just taking shape with a hatchback, a sedan and a crossover model due in 2020. More models are in the works in other body styles, including a retro-inspired electric Microbus due in 2021 or 2022.

But is there room in the range this early on for a performance model, given the already impressive torque of electric motors?

"If we do an R electric car, then it will be a proper R, or else it wouldn’t make sense," Capito told Autocar.

A decision has not been made on such a vehicle; the priority now is getting the first ID models into showrooms as 2020 model year vehicles. But Capito indicated to Autocar that the challenge with a hot version of an ID model would be finding the balance between battery life and the experience of a motorsport car.

"You need the space for motors and batteries and the battery technology. It’s more complex in the past than with performance engines," Capitol added, according to Autocar.