Recently, the Volkswagen ID.3 has been selling well in China due to significant official discounts, making its pricing comparable to that of the gasoline-powered Golf. Previously, the ID.3 replaced the electric version of the Golf as Volkswagen's main electric vehicle. However, in a recent interview with overseas media, a senior executive from Volkswagen hinted that the ID.3 might not have a next-generation model, and the electric version of the Golf would make a comeback with an all-new generation.
The ninth-generation Golf has been confirmed as an all-electric model. In a recent interview with Volkswagen's technical development director, the executive was asked about the future fate of the ID.3 after the launch of the ninth-generation Golf. The director stated, "There isn't enough space to offer 2-3 different models to the same customer. We have started developing the all-new electric Golf, and we have specific ideas about its appearance, but we will see how the market develops."
Certainly, even if the ID.3 does not have a next generation, it does not necessarily mean that it will be discontinued when the electric Golf is launched. Volkswagen has mentioned that both models might be sold simultaneously.
The recently refreshed Golf, which has just completed its mid-term facelift, will be the last gasoline-powered Golf, celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2024. The electric version of the Golf will continue to use the Golf name, as it is a core brand that has produced over 37 million units since its birth in 1974, making the Golf the best-selling car in European history.
Not only will the name Golf continue into the era of electric vehicles, but other classic names from Volkswagen will also persist. Volkswagen has confirmed that names like GTI and R will be retained even after the end of the era of gasoline-powered cars. Volkswagen plans to cease the production of gasoline cars in Europe starting from 2033.
However, the ID. series from Volkswagen is not coming to an end. There are plans for the launch of ID.2 and ID.1 in the future. Additionally, later this year, the ID.3 GTX is set to be released.
