Volkswagen is considering launching an electric compact MPV to succeed the classic family MPV Touran and provide family users with a more practical choice than an SUV.The new car is in the internal evaluation stage and will draw inspiration from early concept cars such as the 2016 Budd-e, which is based on the first version of the MEB platform on which Volkswagen's current pure electric vehicles are based.
With the emergence of SUVs in large numbers, Volkswagen has once again realized that family-oriented MPVs still have potential in the European and Chinese markets.
This new MPV will be positioned lower than the ID.Buzz, with a more compact size, lighter weight and more affordable price. It is described as a "modern version of Microbus (Type 2)".
Its design may borrow elements from the 2011 Bulli, the 2016 Budd-e concept car, as well as production cars such as the second-generation Touran and the 2014 Golf SV.
In terms of structural design, Volkswagen considered using a square outline, short body suspension, flat floor and high roof to maximize interior space and versatility to meet the needs of target users, including German taxi companies.
In addition, Volkswagen is also developing new sliding doors and seat layouts to enhance its competitiveness. Its main competitors include the newly released MIX, which is known for its flexible design and has won a lot of attention with its unique double sliding doors and changeable interior layout.
Since its launch in 2003, Touran has sold more than 2.6 million units in the European market, making it one of the best-selling MPVs in Europe. Although it has lost its limelight to SUVs in recent years, there are still a large number of old users looking forward to updates.
At the same time, Volkswagen is also facing pressure from China's electric MPV market.
At present, the new car project is still in its early stages. It is expected to be built based on the upgraded MEB+ platform or the newer SSP platform in the future. It is expected to provide 60-80kWh battery options, and the drive forms include front-wheel drive single motor and four-wheel drive dual motors.
If it is finally mass-produced, the car is expected to be launched in 2027 or 2028, and may reuse the name Yuan, which is in line with Volkswagen's strategy of using traditional car names for future electric vehicles and getting rid of ID series numbers.