Summary
- VW drove the ID.7 for 585 miles on one charge at 18 mph at the Nardo circuit
- The range exceeded the WLTP range claim by 32.7%
- The ID.7 is one of the longest-range EVs in Europe
- The ID.7 lacks battery capacity compared to the Lucid Air
- The ID.7 is the most aerodynamically efficient electric VW built on the MEB platform and available in Europe since 2023
Article
Volkswagen ID.7 Exceeds Claimed WLTP Range at Low Speeds
The Volkswagen ID.7 is one of the longest-range EVs to come out of Europe, with a claimed WLTP range of up to 440 miles (709 kilometers). However, VW recently took an ID.7 Pro S to the Nardo circuit in Italy to prove that you can get even more out of one full charge. While driving at an average speed of 18 mph (29 km/h), the ID.7 exceeded its WLTP range by 32.7%, reaching an impressive 585 miles (941 km). This showcases the range potential of the ID.7 in urban traffic conditions.
Efficiency Comparison with Lucid Air
Despite its impressive range, the Volkswagen ID.7 still lacks the battery capacity to challenge the efficiency and range of the Lucid Air. The Lucid Air’s big-battery version can travel more than 500 miles on a single charge at a steady 70 mph, outperforming the ID.7 in terms of efficiency and range. The ID.7 is pitched as a rival to cars like the BMW i4 and Mercedes-Benz EQE, but it falls short compared to the Lucid Air in terms of overall efficiency.
Aerodynamic Design and Available Trims
The Volkswagen ID.7 is the largest and most luxurious car built on the MEB platform, with a drag coefficient of 0.23 making it the most aerodynamically efficient electric VW. Available as either a fastback or as the ID.7 Tourer wagon, it offers a combination of luxury and performance. The ID.7 has been available in Europe since 2023, with a starting price of €57,990 ($59,500). The top GTX 4Motion Business trim costs €71,890 ($73,800), providing customers with various options to choose from.
Delay in Arrival to North America
While Volkswagen initially planned to bring the ID.7 to America, the launch has been delayed with no clear timeframe for its debut. In May 2024, the company announced the delay, leaving potential customers in North America eagerly waiting for its arrival. Despite the delay, there is still a possibility that the ID.7 will reach North American shores later this year. However, whether it will find an audience among SUV-loving Americans remains to be seen.
Urban Traffic Efficiency Test
VW’s extensive test at the Nardo circuit demonstrated the ID.7’s efficiency in urban traffic conditions, where lower speeds can significantly increase its range. The average electricity consumption of 6.75 miles/kWh (9.2 kWh/100 km) in the test was exceptionally low, showcasing the ID.7’s efficiency potential. This test highlighted the ID.7’s capabilities in navigating city traffic and maximizing its range on a single charge, making it an attractive option for urban commuters.
Potential Market Impact
With its impressive range capabilities and luxurious features, the Volkswagen ID.7 has the potential to make a significant impact in the EV market once it arrives in North America. Despite competing with established rivals like the BMW i4 and Mercedes-Benz EQE, the ID.7 offers a unique combination of efficiency, range, and luxury. As EV adoption continues to grow globally, the delayed arrival of the ID.7 in North America presents an opportunity for Volkswagen to capture a share of the SUV-loving American market with its long-range electric SUV model.
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