We’ve been talking about the Volkswagen ID family
for what feels like an eternity, but we’re finally getting a glimpse at an
upcoming production model. Previewed by the original ID concept, this prototype is a hatchback
that is expected to be called the ID Neo. The model was snapped in South Africa
by Twitter user Theo Calitz (@Theolitz) and first noticed by The Drive.
While the prototype is heavy camouflaged, we can see
it will follow in the footsteps of the concept. Despite this, the hatchback has
a rounder front bumper and a more traditional lower air intake. The headlights
are also more conventional, but they retain the concept’s distinctive LED
daytime running light ring.
The profile and greenhouse appear to be nearly
identical to the concept, but the production model appears to have a slightly
thicker rear pillar. We can also see familiar bodywork, but designers installed
traditional side mirrors and door handles.
The ID Neo will go
into production late next year and be launched in 2020. It will become the
first model to ride on Volkswagen’s new MEB architecture that will eventually
underpin an assortment of other models including the production versions of the
ID CROZZ, ID BUZZ and ID VIZZION concepts.
While many entry-level electric vehicles are
front-wheel drive, Volkswagen has already confirmed most of the ID family will
be rear- or all-wheel drive. The automaker has also revealed the ID family will
use a modular battery pack that allows for ranges between 321 km and 547 km according to the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles
Test Procedure.
Volkswagen has been coy on performance
specifications, but the original ID concept had a 168 hp electric motor which enabled the car to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in less than eight seconds. Volkswagen has previously said the production model
could have more or less power.
