Volkswagen revealed Tuesday evening a new concept vehicle called the ID. Space Vizzion, and despite the crazy Frank Zappaesque name, this one might actually make it into production in Europe and North America.
The ID. Space Vizzion is the seventh concept that VW has introduced since 2016 that uses its MEB platform, a flexible modular system — really a matrix of common parts — for producing electric vehicles that VW says make it more efficient and cost-effective.
The first vehicles to use this MEB platform will be under the ID brand, although this platform can, and will, be used for electric vehicles under other VW Group brands such as Skoda and Seat. The ID. 3 is the first model in its new all-electric ID brand and the beginning of the automaker’s ambitious plan to sell 1 million EVs annually by 2025. A production version of the ID. 3 was unveiled in September.
The ID. Space Vizzion is equipped with a rear-mounted 275-horsepower motor and a 82 kilowatt-hour battery pack with a range of up to 300 miles under the EU’s WLTP cycle. A second motor can be added to give it all-wheel drive capability and a total output of 355 horsepower.
Inside the concept is four seats. Volkswagen said a production vehicle with three rear seats is also possible. Between the seats, there is a large fold-out center console with storage areas, drink holders and USB-C ports. The infotainment system is in the center, somewhat reminiscent of the Tesla Model 3, and has touch-activated surfaces for functions such as media or phone.
This concept will likely be described in a number of ways — and during the event at the Petersen Museum in Los Angeles it was — but this is a wagon through and through.
What the ID. Space Vizzion will ultimately look like is unclear, although much of the shape and overall stance shown Tuesday evening will likely remain the same. Scott Keogh, CEO of Volkswagen of America, did say in his closing remarks that something like the concept shown tonight will come to the U.S.
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