VW ID 2 R: Small Size, Massive Electric Power
▼ Summary
– Volkswagen plans an even more radical ID 2 R model with three electric motors, adding two in-wheel motors to the front motor of the ID 2 GTI.
– The three-motor setup aims to provide all-wheel drive without compromising trunk space or floor height while boosting dynamic performance.
– The ID 2 R could exceed 400 horsepower, significantly more than the 286 hp of the front-wheel-drive GTI version.
– Volkswagen’s R division is collaborating with a Balkan-based technical partner to develop lightweight, high-efficiency in-wheel motors for optimal agility.
– The ID 2 R may pioneer a new generation of compact, high-performance EVs, potentially rivaling models like the Renault 5 Turbo 3E or Fiat Grande Panda.
Volkswagen is pushing the boundaries of electric performance with its upcoming ID 2 R, a compact EV that could redefine sporty dynamics. The German automaker isn’t stopping at the already anticipated ID 2 GTI, instead, it’s exploring an even more extreme variant powered by three electric motors. This radical approach involves adding two in-wheel motors at the rear, complementing the front-mounted unit planned for the GTI version.
The three-motor setup promises all-wheel drive capabilities without compromising cargo space or raising the floor height. More importantly, it unlocks precision torque vectoring, enhancing agility and acceleration. Early reports suggest the ID 2 R could deliver over 400 horsepower, a significant leap from the GTI’s estimated 286 hp. That’s supercar-level performance in a city-friendly package.
Volkswagen’s R division is spearheading the project, collaborating with a Balkan-based tech partner specializing in high-efficiency, lightweight in-wheel motors. The focus is on maximizing traction while minimizing weight gain, a critical balance for maintaining the car’s nimble character.
Built on the adaptable MEB Plus platform, the ID 2 R wouldn’t require major structural changes to accommodate this innovative drivetrain. Volkswagen is also evaluating a conventional dual-motor layout, similar to the Skoda Elroq vRS, but the in-wheel solution offers a unique advantage: it could bring AWD to compact EVs without intruding on interior space.
If greenlit, the ID 2 R could challenge rivals like the Renault 5 Turbo 3E and Fiat’s upcoming AWD Grande Panda. It might even inspire a rugged ID 2-based SUV. Though unconfirmed, insiders hint at aggressive styling, a tuned chassis, and a driver-focused cabin, positioning it as the spiritual successor to the legendary Polo R WRC.
The standard ID 2 lineup arrives in 2026, with a crossover variant following in 2027. Should the R model materialize, it could set a new benchmark for high-performance electric compacts, blending cutting-edge tech with Volkswagen’s motorsport heritage.
(Source: JDG)
