Volkswagen ID.7: a long-range electric vehicle at CES 2023

For CES 2023, the Volkswagen ID.7 appears in its final form, but the electric sedan still wears a quite unusual camouflage.

Volkswagen is preparing its counter to the Tesla Model 3. How? With an electric sedan that the manufacturer previewed last year with a concept car ID Aero. It was already noticeable that the lines closely resembled a production car, which has now finally arrived under the official name Volkswagen ID.7.

A Volkswagen ID.7 that sets the tone

It wasn’t unveiled at a traditional auto show or during an online presentation dedicated to it. Volkswagen chose the United States and the CES in Las Vegas, an event focused on new technologies.

But instead of a formal reveal, the German brand prefers a new teaser. For this, Volkswagen dresses the car in pixel-motif camouflage, with an original approach. While camouflaged prototypes typically feature black and white patterns, the sedan displays colors, varying across different parts of the bodywork. In the photos, the Volkswagen ID.7 appears in blue, red, or yellow depending on the angle.

Can the German rival slow down the Tesla Model 3?

Since the appearance of the Tesla Model 3, few competitors have emerged, and even fewer have posed a real threat. The Volkswagen ID.7 responds — five years late — with a very conservative style, probably targeting an older clientele or ride-hailing drivers. There is also a restrained look inside. Despite the understated treatment, with a large central touchscreen for functions and air vents integrated into the dashboard, the cabin feels very dark, even austere. It’s a pity, as the exterior colors hint at more fun.

The goal of this Volkswagen ID.7 is to boost sales of the “ID” family. The manufacturer claims to have already sold over 500,000 electric cars, including the compact ID.3, the SUV ID.4 and its coupé avatar ID.5, as well as the large SUV ID.6 available in China. The ID Buzz has also recently joined the lineup, with its retro-inspired design, available in a commercial “Cargo” version.

700 km of range for the Volkswagen ID.7

The ID.7 will use the same MEB platform as its counterparts, with a 2.97-meter wheelbase. To power its length exceeding 4.80 meters, Volkswagen will at least equip it with a 150 kW (204 hp) motor at the rear, possibly up to a 300-horsepower version with an additional front motor.

Range will likely depend on the 77 kWh battery, at least in the high-end version, with a promise of 700 kilometers. The launch of this Volkswagen ID.7 is scheduled for sometime in 2023, at a starting price around €50,000.

Also read: Test Mercedes EQS 450+: the uncompromising electric highway