The German automaker officially delivered its 2 millionth electric vehicle and announced plans to enter the budget segment with four new models starting in 2026, led by the ID Polo.
Volkswagen recently marked a significant milestone by delivering its 2 millionth all-electric vehicle (EV), solidifying its position in the volatile global electric vehicle market. To further strengthen its position, the German brand plans to launch four compact electric vehicle models by 2026, targeting the high-volume, affordable segment.
The driving force behind the ID line and its dominance in Europe.
Of the total 2 million electric vehicles delivered, the ID. series played a key role. Specifically, the ID.3 model – also the 2 millionth vehicle to roll off the production line – achieved sales of approximately 628,000 units. The ID.4 and ID.5 SUV models led the way with 901,000 units. Notably, the ID.7 sedan and wagon, despite only launching in 2023, quickly became the company's best-selling EV model with 132,000 units sold.
| Car model | Cumulative sales (units) |
|---|---|
| Volkswagen ID.4/ID.5 | 901,000 |
| Volkswagen ID.3 | 628,000 |
| Volkswagen ID.7 | 132,000 |
In the European market, Volkswagen is showing strong growth, surpassing Tesla to become the region's largest electric vehicle manufacturer. The brand's electric vehicle sales in the domestic market have increased by approximately 50%, reaching 247,900 vehicles.
Challenges in the US and the affordable car strategy for 2026
In contrast to its success at home, Volkswagen is facing numerous challenges in the US. Its two flagship electric models, the ID.4 and ID. Buzz, have been repeatedly recalled, while the ID.7 has yet to be distributed. Changes in regulations and the termination of electric vehicle incentives have also made the business environment in the US less favorable compared to other regions.
To address software development challenges and enhance competitiveness, Volkswagen established a joint venture with Rivian. However, the focus of the company's strategy lies in 2026, when the brand plans to launch four new small electric car models. Most notably, the ID Polo, with a target price of around 25,000 euros (approximately 675 million VND).
According to Martin Sanders, Volkswagen's board member in charge of sales, the company's goal is to bring attractive and affordable electric vehicles to high-volume segments. Instead of retreating or delaying, Volkswagen is choosing to expand its product portfolio and lower prices to reach a mass market, reshaping the electric vehicle race in the near future.