Volkswagen has finally unveiled the new ID.7 which will be the brand’s first global electric model for the upper mid-size class. The combination of ranges up to 700 kilometres (WLTP), superior powertrain, spacious interior and premium technologies makes the ID.7 a comfortable limousine for long distance travel and opens up a new segment for the ID. family. Almost five metres long, the model also has an enhanced customer-focused operating concept and a high-quality appearance. The ID.7 launch is planned for this year in Europe and China, and from 2024 in North America.
The ID.7 is the first MEB model with a completely new, highly efficient drive generation. With 210 kW (286 PS), it is the most powerful and highest-torque electric drive motor in a Volkswagen ID. model so far. This power variant is used in the ID.7 independently of the chosen battery size. The power unit with the internal designation APP550 was developed together with Volkswagen Group Components in Kassel (Germany) and is also produced there. The new electric drive has been optimised above all in terms of its energy consumption. Depending on the battery sizes, it is predicted that WLTP ranges of up to 700 kilometres and charging capacities of up to about 200 kW will be possible. The ID.7 therefore underlines its long-distance suitability for frequent drivers and fleet customers.
The ID.7 is almost five metres long and was designed based on aerodynamic principles. Its roof slopes elegantly to the rear in coupé style and contributes to achieving an excellent drag coefficient of about 0.23 depending on the vehicle equipment. The long wheelbase and short overhangs create plenty of space in the vehicle interior for all occupants. A new operating and display concept is introduced in the ID.7. With this, Volkswagen has reacted to feedback from its customers and improved the operating experience in relevant areas. This includes the following features as standard:
− a 38-centimetre (15-inch) infotainment system screen
− the augmented reality head-up display
− a new air conditioning operating concept integrated on the top level of the infotainment system as well as freely assignable favourites buttons
− a backlit touch slider
With the new massage seats and the electronically dimmable panoramic sunroof, the ID.7 offers equipment options that are otherwise present only in the higher classes of premium competitors. The new panoramic sunroof with smart glass can be switched between opaque and transparent settings by touch control. Like many other functions in the ID.7, the roof can also be operated by means of natural voice commands – this takes place using the new IDA voice assistant. The optional front seats are also a new development: for the first time in a Volkswagen, they optionally offer adaptive seat Climatronic – with cooling or heating as required and also a drying function. A massage function with a seal of approval from the German Campaign for Healthier Backs (AGR) is also available. The range of options is rounded off by a 700-watt sound system from Harman Kardon: 14 high-end loudspeakers, including centre speaker at the front and subwoofer in the luggage compartment, provide an impressive sound experience with the new Volkswagen limousine.
The Travel Assist with swarm data can take over lateral and longitudinal control of the ID.7 as needed. Volkswagen developed this feature together with CARIAD, the software company of the VW Group. If desired, the ID.7 can also use Travel Assist to support assisted lane changing on the multi-lane motorway at speeds above 90 km/h. The driver monitors this, but the strain of driving is significantly reduced. When it comes to parking, the electric Volkswagen can independently perform assisted manoeuvres in different ways. One of these is parking with memory function over a distance of up to 50 metres. For this, the driver either remains sitting in the ID.7 or monitors the parking procedure from outside the vehicle using the smartphone app.
The new ID.7 is one of ten new electric models that will be launched by Volkswagen by 2026. This year alone sees the introduction of the new ID.3, the ID. Buzz with long wheelbase and the ID.7. An electric compact SUV and the production version of the ID. 2 all at a price of less than 25,000 euros are planned for 2026. This will give the car manufacturer the widest range of electric vehicles compared with its competitors. The new ID.7 will be produced in the Volkswagen plant in Emden (Germany) for the European and North American markets. In China, the corresponding ID.7 models will be produced locally.
