The boss of the Volkswagen Group of America, Pablo Di Si, is hopeful that the production version of the ID. GTI Concept unveiled last year could make it to U.S. shores. VW is currently working on a hot version of its entry-level ID2 with the GTI badge. It could serve as a compelling electric alternative to the pint-sized Polo GTI and Di Si believes that if the carmaker can get the pricing right, “it would make sense” to sell it in the U.S.
While speaking with members of the media
at the carmaker’s recent annual media conference in Berlin, Germany, Di Si said
he would like the vehicle to be priced between US$ 20,000 and US$ 25,000. As such, it
could serve as the most affordable EV sold in the U.S. Di So noted that nailing
this price point will be important to ensure the car sells in high volumes
rather than being a niche product.
VW has not revealed technical
specifications about the ID. GTI concept but has confirmed it features a single
electric motor at the front axle complemented by an LSD. The standard ID.2 will
hit the market with a respectable 228 hp so a figure north of 250 hp for the
GTI is entirely possible. The production model should look quite similar to the
concept and come complete with a host of retro design elements.
One particularly interesting feature of
the concept was the ‘GTI Experience Control’ setting that aims to mimic the
steering feel, sound, and engine characteristics of VW’s most iconic hot
hatches, including the 1976 Mk1 GTI. There’s no word yet on whether this piece
of tech will make it to the production model.
