Volkswagen has introduced its first electric vehicle (EV) in India, the Volkswagen ID.4, slated for launch in the final quarter of the calendar year (CY) 2024. The Volkswagen ID.4 will be introduced in India as a fully assembled model and will initially be offered in a single configuration.
Volkswagen, founded in 1937, is a renowned German automaker headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Known for its iconic Beetle and innovative engineering, Volkswagen has evolved into one of the world’s leading automobile manufacturers. With a strong focus on sustainability and electric mobility, Volkswagen is committed to shaping the future of mobility. The company offers a diverse range of vehicles, including compact cars, sedans, SUVs, and electric vehicles, catering to a global customer base.
The global variant of the Volkswagen ID.4 is available with various powertrain options, including single-motor rear-wheel drive and dual-motor all-wheel drive. This EV boasts a claimed range of up to 480km on a single charge. Volkswagen anticipates a 5-7% growth in the Indian passenger vehicle market this year, aiming for a 10-15% increase for itself. Michael Mayer, Executive Director of Sales for Volkswagen Passenger Cars International Operations, stated, “Our journey toward electrification in India commences with the ID.4…,” during the Volkswagen annual brand conference.
He mentioned that the ID.4 is being introduced as part of the company’s global push towards mass electrification. Currently, Volkswagen offers Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) models like the Virtus mid-size sedan, Taigun mid-size SUV, and the Tiguan premium SUV in India. Globally, VW is at the forefront of the electrification movement, Mayer stated. He added that as part of the company’s commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement 2030, it is continuing efforts in various areas, including developing charging infrastructure crucial for EV acceptance, battery recycling, digitalization, and connectivity solutions.
Mayer noted that the company offers a range of products from ID.2 to ID. Buzz globally, targeting various customer segments. Globally, VW’s electric vehicle (EV) sales grew by 21%, reaching around 400,000 units in 2023. The ID.4, one of the brand’s most popular EVs globally, is available in multiple trims worldwide and is positioned below the ID.3 hatchback in the brand’s global lineup. This car will be Volkswagen’s first Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) offered for sale in India. The ID.4 GTX was previously showcased in India at their annual brand conference in 2023.
Mayer emphasized that this success story is far from over, with plans to expand into other markets. He mentioned that this expansion would be a phased approach, focusing on strengthening their current portfolio based on brand positioning for each market. Asserting India’s importance, he noted that India is currently a 4 million car market and is expected to grow by 5-7% this year. The Indian automotive industry has now climbed to the third position globally, even surpassing Japan, a development few would have anticipated a decade ago, Mayer remarked.
He reaffirmed VW’s commitment to the Indian market, stating that the company will continue introducing its premium products over the coming years. Ashish Gupta, Volkswagen Passenger Cars India brand director, stated that the company’s sales grew by 8% in 2023, selling around 44,000 units. He mentioned that their target for 2024 is to increase sales by 10-15%. The company aims to expand its sales and service network to leverage opportunities in Tier II and Tier III cities.
Gupta stated that the company plans to have a presence in 170 cities with 230 sales and pre-owned car touchpoints, along with 150 service centers in 2024. Last year, they established 45 sales and service touchpoints, bringing the current total to 193 sales and pre-owned car sales touchpoints and 145 service centers in 145 cities.
