Tag: Volkswagen

Volkswagen has finally decided to revert to its "all-touchscreen" interior design, which has been criticized by car enthusiasts for years. Ahead of its official launch, Volkswagen released interior photos of its new all-electric hatchback, the ID. Polo. This affordable electric car, considered the production version of the ID. 2all concept car, boasts not its horsepower or range, but rather the return of physical buttons. From the steering wheel to the center console, familiar physical switches, levers, and even volume control knobs will return, signifying that the German automaker is attempting to correct its overly aggressive digital transformation of the past few years. Saying goodbye to touchscreen hell, the chief designer says: "Buttons are like friends." Volkswagen's chief designer, Andreas Mindt, emotionally stated in a press release: "We've created an interior that feels like a friend from the first touch." He emphasized that clear physical buttons provide "stability and trust" for driving, while warm materials make the cabin more attractive. This wasn't a sudden idea. As early as last year, Andreas Mindt revealed to foreign media that Volkswagen's future new cars would reintroduce physical controls for important functions. The ID. Polo delivers on this promise: a row of physical buttons remains below the center console screen (presumably for air conditioning and hazard lights), and the easily accidentally touched capacitive touchpad on the steering wheel has been replaced with solid physical buttons. There's even a physical knob between the driver and passenger seats for adjusting volume or switching tracks/radios. While emphasizing tactile feedback, the ID. Polo's technological features are still impressive. A 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster (Digital Cockpit) is positioned in front of the driver's seat, while the center console features a nearly 13-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system. To pay homage to the classic design, Volkswagen has also included a delightful surprise: owners can switch the digital instrument cluster interface to the classic 1980s Golf I analog style via steering wheel buttons or the center console menu. The "Volkswagen Wink," which combines digital display technology with retro charm, is expected to resonate with many veteran car enthusiasts. Launching in Europe this year, but not in the US, the ID. Polo is expected to be the first of four new electric vehicles from Volkswagen targeting the small and compact car market, with a planned official launch in Europe later in 2026. However, there may be bad news for American consumers: Volkswagen currently has no plans to introduce this compact electric vehicle to the US market. Analysis: This is true "human-centered" technology. The interior transformation of the Volkswagen ID. Polo symbolizes a correction and return to normalcy in the automotive industry after several years of the misconception that "the bigger the screen, the better; the fewer the buttons, the better." In recent years, in pursuit of a technological feel (and cost savings), many automakers have integrated air conditioning, volume, and even windshield wiper controls into touchscreens or touch bars. This has resulted in drivers having to look at the screen while driving, seriously affecting driving safety, not to mention the poor tactile feedback. Fox's willingness to "go back" and embrace physical buttons and knobs is actually a sign of progress. It proves that truly good UI/UX design shouldn't force users to change their habits to adapt to machines, but rather allow machines to serve humanity in the most intuitive and safest way.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles celebrates its 75th anniversary with the official launch of the all-new generation The All-New Caravelle in Taiwan today (October 2nd). Positioned as a "classic German luxury commercial vehicle," this flagship model not only won the 2025 Red Dot Design Award but is also the only vehicle in its class to offer a 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system. Inheriting 75 years of classic heritage, redefining the luxury commercial vehicle: Since the debut of the first-generation T-series Transporter in 1950, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has gradually established itself as a "new benchmark for luxury commercial vehicles" thanks to its German craftsmanship and multi-functional features. The Caravelle series has been available in Taiwan for over 20 years, enjoying popularity among professional rental companies, five-star hotels, and high-end buyers. It is also widely used for business receptions, tourism, logistics transportation, and even family travel. This update, after a five-year hiatus, completes Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Taiwan's product lineup, encompassing the Multivan, ID. Buzz, and Caravelle lines. The all-new Caravelle, a next-generation design winner of the Red Dot Design Award, continues the T-model family styling, combining "practical aesthetics" with intelligent technology through streamlined proportions and the classic Bulli Line. The front adopts the latest family design language, paired with full LED lighting components, ensuring both high visibility and driving safety. Since its debut at the 2024 IAA Motor Show in Germany, this year's Red Dot Design Award solidifies its status as a representative work of the Transporter/Caravelle series, embodying both aesthetics and functionality. Jason Statham serves as the brand ambassador, and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, the designated vehicle for the Golden Bell Awards, has invited international film star Jason Statham to serve as its global brand ambassador, echoing his professional and reliable image in the "The Transporter" film series, adding a distinctive touch to the Caravelle. Simultaneously, the All-New Caravelle will also be the designated vehicle for the 60th Golden Bell Awards in Taiwan, providing attendees with a comfortable and symbolically meaningful mobility experience. The All-New Caravelle features a comprehensive upgrade in power and space. All models are equipped with a 2.0-liter TDI turbocharged diesel engine, offering 150 PS and 170 PS outputs, both paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. It also introduces the class-exclusive 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system for the first time, enhancing driving safety and terrain adaptability. The long-wheelbase version boasts a length exceeding 5.45 meters, with a corresponding increase in wheelbase and cabin length, resulting in over 3 meters of spacious interior. The interior features a 3-3-3 nine-seat layout, with the second row featuring three individual seats...

Similar to Volvo's previous collaborations with CarRental and LINE GO to expand its diversified mobility service market under the "VOLVO GO" brand, Volkswagen today (July 2nd) announced the integration of resources from partners such as CarRental, LINE GO, and Sealand Automotive to launch a new mobility service platform, "Volkswagen MOVE," designed to provide a flexible and convenient car-hailing experience for the Taiwan market. Compared to previous single rental or sharing service models, "Volkswagen MOVE" offers more comprehensive and flexible options, symbolizing a new evolution for Volkswagen in smart mobility services. Steffen Knapp, President of Volkswagen Taiwan, stated, "Volkswagen is not just a brand that manufactures vehicles; we aspire to be a mobility partner in our users' lives. We've launched this new service hoping to allow more people, whether or not they are car owners, to easily experience the driving pleasure and quality of Volkswagen vehicles." The biggest highlight of "Volkswagen MOVE" is its integrated platform, allowing users to search for vehicles, schedule appointments, and make online payments without installing any additional applications. The platform also provides personalized recommendations and usage suggestions, as well as push notifications of the latest brand activities and promotions, enhancing user engagement. Volkswagen has also integrated many of its popular models, such as The Golf, The T-Cross, and The Tiguan, into the service platform, providing comprehensive support from hatchbacks to SUVs, expanding the flexibility of mobility choices and making it easy for different user groups to get started. To attract more users to its platform and enhance its services, Foxconn is offering limited-time exclusive deals and monthly discount coupon push notifications. Users can enjoy the following benefits by claiming coupons through the App or LINE: • Up to NT$150 off a single LINE GO ride (maximum 7% off) • Up to NT$300 off a single car rental ride on GeShang...

Volkswagen showcased its upcoming entry-level electric vehicle, the ID.EVERY1, at an event in Wolfsburg, Germany. Designed for the mass market, it offers a smart and flexible user experience while emphasizing a reasonable price. The model presented was still a concept design, with technology potentially derived from Volkswagen's collaboration with Rivian. Volkswagen plans to officially launch the production version in 2027, with an expected price of €20,000 (approximately NT$708,623.75). In addition to the ID.EVERY1, Volkswagen plans to launch at least four more front-wheel-drive, affordable entry-level electric vehicles (including the ID.EVERY1) by 2027, aiming to promote electric vehicles more widely. Similar strategies are being adopted by companies like Tesla and Foxconn's MIH, which also plan to launch affordable electric vehicles to compete with Chinese brands in the price segment. The ID.EVERY1 is equipped with a 70kW (approximately 94 horsepower) electric motor, capable of accelerating to over 80 mph (approximately 130 km/h) and boasting a maximum electric range of over 155 miles (approximately 250 km). Its compact design accommodates four passengers (including the driver) and provides a cargo volume of approximately 10.8 cubic feet (approximately 0.31 cubic meters). However, Volkswagen currently only plans to offer the ID.EVERY1 in the European market and has no plans to offer it in other markets such as the United States at this stage.

Following its recent joint venture with Volkswagen AG to share key technological resources, Rivian, the American electric vehicle startup, announced it has secured a conditional loan commitment of up to $66 billion from the U.S. Department of Energy's Advanced Technology Vehicle Manufacturing (ATVM) program. This commitment will accelerate Rivian's progress in electric vehicle design, development, and manufacturing within the United States. Rivian will use the loan to build its Stanton Springs North plant near Social Circle, Georgia, thereby increasing its domestic electric vehicle production capacity and supporting export demand in both the U.S. and international markets. Rivian anticipates driving long-term growth and key profitability through its mid-size SUV R2 and mid-size crossovers R3 and R3X, while also expecting the factory expansion to create local jobs and generate more investment opportunities. Rivian plans to build its Stanton Springs North plant in two phases, with each phase estimated to have an annual capacity of 20 vehicles, for a total annual capacity of 40 vehicles. The first phase is expected to begin construction in 2028, creating 2000 full-time construction jobs and boosting the local consumer economy. Regarding its recent joint venture with Volkswagen, Rivian will provide the electric platform architecture to help Volkswagen develop future Golf-style electric vehicles. Rivian also plans to incorporate software-defined design into its Audi and Porsche models and assist in driving Volkswagen's flagship electric vehicle development plan, "Project Trinity," launched in 2021. In previous statements, Volkswagen indicated that the flagship electric vehicle built on "Project Trinity" will feature faster charging speeds, longer battery range, Level 2+ intelligent driving assistance capabilities, and the potential to upgrade to Level 4. However, the flagship electric vehicle built under "Project Trinity" was originally scheduled to be launched in 2026, but it has been repeatedly delayed due to various factors. Currently, Volkswagen Group plans to launch the Golf-style electric vehicle in 2029 first, while the flagship electric vehicle built under "Project Trinity" will be launched later, possibly around 2032.

Volkswagen AG recently announced a joint venture with Rivian to strengthen their investment partnership. The $58 billion deal, up from Volkswagen's initial $50 billion commitment, will allow the two companies to share key technological resources and provide more funding for the currently unprofitable Rivian. Rivian plans to launch its smaller, lower-priced SUV, the R2, next year, while Volkswagen, through the joint venture, expects to launch vehicles equipped with Rivian technology by 2027. In this joint venture, Volkswagen and Rivian developers and software engineers will collaborate in California, and plans to establish three additional R&D sites in North America and Europe. The goal is to develop vehicles using the new technologies at a lower cost. In addition to its partnership with Volkswagen, Rivian has previously received a significant investment from Amazon and will supply 10 electric vans to Amazon, while also competing with Tesla in the North American electric vehicle market.

Last year, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles showcased the all-electric ID. Buzz in Taiwan and announced the upcoming introduction of a long-wheelbase version. Today (September 13th), Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles announced that it will open eight dedicated showrooms across Taiwan to display the ID. Buzz Pro S long-wheelbase 7-seater version, and pre-orders will begin immediately. Simultaneously, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles also announced that the single-color version of the ID. Buzz Pro S long-wheelbase 7-seater will be priced at NT$2,398,000, while the limited-edition two-tone version will be priced at NT$2,486,000. The two-tone paint option is priced at NT$158,000, and will be available as an early bird at NT$88,000 during the initial launch period. Currently, the ID. Buzz Pro S is the only German-made, all-electric 7-seater SUV in its class. It features a 91kWh high-efficiency lithium-ion battery module, delivering a maximum output of 286 horsepower and 57 kg/m of torque. WLTP specifications indicate a maximum range of 454 to 487 kilometers, and it supports fast charging up to 200kW. The exterior design is based on the classic Volkswagen T1 van, maintaining a short front end and low-drag aerodynamic design. It utilizes Volkswagen's latest MEB electric vehicle chassis, measuring 4962 x 1985 x 1927 mm, with a long wheelbase of 3239 mm and an interior height of 1330 mm, providing a more spacious interior. The long-wheelbase 7-seater version features sliding doors that are 192mm wider than the short-wheelbase version, making it easier for passengers to enter and exit the cabin. The interior boasts a three-row, seven-seat configuration that can be folded flat for greater flexibility. Other features include the IQ.LIGHT intelligent lighting system, comprised of LED Matrix headlights and LED sequential dynamic taillights, as well as power sliding windows, hands-free sliding doors, and a tailgate. It also includes the IQ.DRIVE driver assistance system, supporting Level 2 semi-autonomous driving capabilities.

Following previous teasers, Volkswagen Taiwan announced today (July 16th) the launch of its flagship showroom in Zhonghe, in collaboration with Yuan San Motors, and also announced the official launch of the European-made, fully-equipped Grand California campervan in Taiwan. ▲Based on the Volkswagen Crafter van, the Grand California campervan has already been sold in European markets such as Germany. While the current California model features a pop-up roof, dual gas stoves, a fresh water tank, and a refrigerator, the Grand California emphasizes a more spacious interior, allowing users to stand comfortably inside, a separate bathroom, and a larger interior space, making it easier for them to enjoy outdoor camping. The vehicle measures 6836 x 2040 x 2839mm and includes a sliding door with an electric retractable staircase, a central multi-function touch panel, ambient lighting throughout the cabin, and storage space through overhead cabinets at the front and sides, as well as storage cabinets in the side kitchen. ▲Features multiple outward-opening windows▲The spacious interior living area features a rotatable driver's seat that, together with the middle seating area and hanging table, forms a "living room" space. A "kitchen" and "bathroom" area are also located in the middle, while a "bedroom" area is situated at the rear. The interior height reaches 1970mm, allowing for comfortable standing and movement within the vehicle. ▲The driver's seat can also rotate backward. When not in use, the spring bed in the "bedroom" area can be lifted to create space in the central aisle below. This space can be used to store large items, bicycles, or motorcycles. The space underneath can also be used to store more luggage, as well as gas cylinders for the kitchen stove. The vehicle itself is powered by a 1968cc four-cylinder TDI turbocharged diesel engine, producing a maximum output of 177 horsepower (130kW) and 41.8 kg-m of torque. It is paired with an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. Driver assistance features include Front Assist (AEB), Crosswind Assist, MCB (Multi-Collision Braking System), ESC (Electronic Stability Control), and ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) to ensure driving safety. ▲Also equipped with advanced driver assistance systems▲The driver's seat offers ample space. It also features PDC (Parking Control) with audible warnings, dual front seatbelt warnings, and dual front SRS (Side Airbags/Side Curtain Airbags) for added peace of mind while driving. Grand California is now accepting limited pre-orders at eight exclusive showrooms across Taiwan, starting today. The pre-order price is NT$408 million, and it offers two metallic paint options: Brilliant Silver and Mirror Gray, as well as a solid Vanilla White. Two-tone paint options are also available, including Vanilla White Cherry Red, Vanilla White Desert Brown, Vanilla White Ocean Blue, and Brilliant Silver Mirror Gray.

JAC Motors, a Chinese automaker funded by Volkswagen, will launch its first electric vehicle using sodium-ion batteries under its Yiwei brand. (The image shows the Yiwei 3 model announced this year.) Sodium-ion batteries have lower density than current lithium-ion batteries, resulting in lower production costs. They also function normally in cold weather, making them a popular choice for next-generation electric vehicles and accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles in the market. JAC Yiwei is expected to begin offering this all-sodium-ion battery electric vehicle in January 2024. This vehicle is clearly based on the Sehol E10X hatchback model launched this year. Previously, when announcing the Yiwei brand in May of this year, JAC Motors revealed that it would no longer use the Sehol brand name and planned to integrate the original Sehol brand vehicles under either the JAC Motors or Yiwei brand. Currently, Volkswagen holds approximately 75% of the shares and management control of JAC Motors, and also holds 50% of the shares of JAC Motors' parent company, Anhui Jianghuai Automobile Group, while the remaining 50% is held by the Chinese government. JAC Motors uses cylindrical sodium-ion batteries provided by Zhongke Haina Technology, assembled in a honeycomb structure and modular form, thereby achieving higher stability and battery discharge efficiency.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is holding its VanLife Carnival at Taipei 101 Water Dance Plaza starting today (November 10th). Besides showcasing past generations of its T-series vans, the event also features the ID. Buzz, a pure electric vehicle officially introduced by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. The company announced that reservations will be open immediately through the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles My eVanLife App, and also revealed that a long-wheelbase version will be introduced later. ▲Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles officially introduces the ID. Buzz pure electric vehicle. The VanLife Carnival in Taiwan showcases a range of vans including the T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, and T7. The ID. Buzz pure electric vehicle, previously imported by other retailers, has now been officially introduced by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Taiwan and will be available for reservation through the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles My eVanLife App. It is expected to be officially launched in Taiwan next year. The event will also feature a classic vehicle display area, a VanLife-exclusive display area, a German food area, a parent-child interactive experience area, a creative handicraft selection area, an ID. Buzz VR virtual reality experience area, and Taiwan's first mobile sticker bus built by T3, allowing visitors to experience these features. On the weekend, the event will also feature a special performance by the talented singer "?te坏特" on the evening of November 11th, followed by a performance by multi-talented artist Ma Nianxian on November 12th. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles stated that since hand-drawing its first dream van in 1947, it has officially begun developing the T-series van models, and now, with the ID. Buzz, it is starting a new chapter in the development of pure electric van models. With the rise of camping in Taiwan, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles expects its California campervan series, which embodies the VanLife lifestyle, including the T6.1 California series and the Caddy California model, to accumulate nearly 500 units in sales in the Taiwanese market this year. ▲Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Taiwan President Wu Shih-fen (left) and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Global Business and Marketing Vice President Lars Krause, at the upcoming milestone of the all-electric era, the ID. Buzz, stated that Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles blends classic design with modern technology. Inspired by the T1 van's exterior, it incorporates Volkswagen Group's latest MEB vehicle platform and offers diverse and practical space functionality, aiming to promote the VanLife lifestyle. A long-wheelbase version is also expected to be introduced in the future to meet market demand. ▲Vanlife lifestyle driven by Volkswagen vans ▲Volkswagen has currently launched the T-series vans ▲From right: the earliest T1, and its successor T2 ▲Left: T3 with rear-wheel drive engine ▲From right: T4, T5, T6, and T7 ▲Designing a van suitable for camping...