Volkswagen ID.7 EV debuts with a digital camouflage

KUALA LUMPUR: At the Consumers Electronics Show currently underway in Las Vegas, Volkswagen has put on display the newest member of its electric ID family, the ID.7. The new mid-size EV sedan is the production version of the Volkswagen ID.Aero concept, which was previewed last year.

In its first public appearance, the ID.7 EV comes wrapped in a smart digital camouflage that produces electroluminescent light effects. The digital cover comprises more than 40 layers of paint that light up the EV’s exterior interactively. It can light up to 22 different areas of the vehicle along with rhythmic and dazzling displays when connected to a sound system. The EV’s hood and sides also feature QR codes acting as an interface to bridge the physical and digital worlds.

“With the new ID.7, we are extending our electric model range into the upper segments. The sedan will offer top-class technology and quality. The ID.7 is one of ten new electric models that we are planning to launch by 2026. Our goal? To deliver suitable products for our customers in every single segment,” says Thomas Schäfer, CEO of Volkswagen Passenger Cars.

The upcoming Volkswagen ID.7 underpins the MEB platform, the same flexible modular system that we can find under the other ID electric vehicles. The EV measures 4940 mm in length, which makes it a little longer than the concept vehicle. The wheelbase is measured at 2970 mm.

Among the interior key highlights of the Volkswagen ID.7 are - 

• An augmented reality head-up display
• 15-inch touchscreen
• Intuitive voice assistant that gets activated by saying “Hello Volkswagen.” If you want to start the heating function of the steering wheel, you just need to say “Hello Volkswagen, my hands are cold”
• Digitally controlled air vents
• Illuminated touch sliders
• An intuitive system that can pre-heat and cool the interior according to weather conditions

While no information is yet available on the ID.7 powertrain, the reports suggest that the EV will be powered either by a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup or a single rear-mounted electric motor. According to the European WLTP cycle, the EV is likely to deliver 700 kilometres (435 miles) of zero-emission driving on a single charge.

More details on the Volkswagen ID.7 are likely to roll out closer to the full debut. Initially, the automaker plans to sell the EV in China, Europe, and North America. We hope ASEAN markets will also get this top-notch electric sedan at a later date.

Also read: Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace Life is now RM 13k cheaper than before!