Latest news with #ID2R
Yahoo
22-06-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Volkswagen plotting ID 2 R with 400bhp and in-wheel motors
Volkswagen is exploring plans for a high-performance ID 2 R, which could be its first model to use in-wheel motors as part of a new four-wheel drive system. The hot hatchback is claimed to be part of a broader engineering initiative, led by the R performance brand, to explore the potency and torque-vectoring potential of hub motors. If given the green light, the ID 2 R would sit above the already announced ID 2 GTI – and potentially even be pitched against the mega-powered Renault 5 Turbo 3E. The drivetrain under consideration for the ID 2 R retains the front-mounted electric motor and power electronics of its GTI sibling but adds two independently controlled electric hub motors within the rear wheels. This would provide a significant boost in performance and four-wheel drive without compromising boot space. Volkswagen officials have confirmed the ID 2 will make its debut in 2026, with the heavily related ID 2 crossover arriving in 2027. Sources at the firm's Wolfsburg HQ in Germany suggest the potent R version is being developed with input from a technical partner based in the Balkans that is believed to specialise in lightweight, high-output in-wheel motor systems. Combined with predictive torque distribution, brake-based yaw control and dynamic drive modes, the system is claimed to offer genuine hyper-hatch performance and agility without the bulk and cost of a conventional dual-motor set-up. However, Autocar has also been told that it would not require expensive modifications to the ID 2's 'MEB Plus' platform to accommodate a second, rear-mounted motor, should VW opt to offer the same performance from a more conventional setup instead. The smallest MEB-based car currently available with dual motors is the Skoda Elroq vRS, which is 400mm longer than the ID 2 concept. With the front-wheel-drive ID 2 GTI set to deliver as much as 286bhp, it is expected that the ID 2 R will deliver in the region of 400bhp or more from its trio of electric motors. Volkswagen's R division is understood to be focusing on minimising the weight penalty, ensuring the ID 2 R remains relatively light and responsive by class standards while delivering the traction and acceleration expected of a four-wheel-drive model – hence the experimentation with lighter in-wheel motor technology. The target is to match or exceed the performance and handling of today's warmed-up GTX EVs, such as the ID 3 GTX, but with a smaller footprint and at a more affordable price. R division insiders hint that the ID 2 R could receive bespoke bodywork, chassis tuning and interior elements to distinguish it from the upcoming ID 2 GTI. Though not officially confirmed, it is seen as a spiritual successor to the 151mph Polo R WRC hot hatch of 2012 and a showcase for affordable electric performance technology. The implications for the rest of the MEB Plus line-up are equally significant. By packaging the rear drive components entirely within the back wheels, VW can extend four-wheel-drive capability to compact crossovers and SUVs without packaging compromises. That could pave the way for the ID 2 crossover to be offered as a baby off-roader, like the upcoming dual-motor Renault 4 and Fiat Grande Panda. This approach could also allow four-wheel-drive variants of future Volkswagen electric models, including the electric Golf – based on the next-gen SSP architecture – to retain the same boot volume, floor height and interior flexibility as the front-driven derivatives. It is also claimed to help streamline platformsharing, giving Volkswagen the ability to build front-, rear- and four-wheel-drive models on a single architecture with minimal hardware divergence. ]]>
Miami Herald
19-06-2025
- Automotive
- Miami Herald
Future VW Golf R EV Could Use Radical In-Wheel Motors
Volkswagen is said to be working on a hot version of the ID 2 small hatchback, likely to be known as the ID 2 R. While VW doesn't sell a hatchback smaller than the Golf in the United States, the ID 2 R could pave the way for the future all-electric Golf R, and VW seems to have come up with a clever way of integrating electric motors. These plans were revealed by Autocar, with its sources suggesting the ID 2 R will use electric hub motors situated in the rear wheels. As we'll see, this layout has multiple benefits. VW is already expected to debut the electric in 2026, but the new ID 2 R will be a lot more advanced. In addition to the front-mounted electric motor in the GTI, the R model will get independently controlled motors within the rear wheels, dramatically increasing performance and enabling all-wheel drive, which has traditionally been associated with the Golf R. By not going the more conventional dual-motor route, VW will be able to save weight and reduce the impact on trunk space, both important considerations in a compact car. Whereas the ID 2 GTI will make around 286 horsepower, a more likely output in the three-motor ID 2 R will be about 400 hp. This, together with the torque vectoring made possible by the hub motors, should make for a shockingly quick and agile hot hatch. Even more performance could be extracted from the larger Golf R EV with the same setup. While hub motors have many advantages, they can also increase unsprung mass - the weight of the components not supported by the suspension - which can negatively impact handling and grip. On the upside, the ID 2 R's tech has the potential to filter through to other small VWs with all-wheel drive. It would also allow cars with FWD, RWD, and AWD to be more easily built on the same platform, reducing costs and complexity. For now, the Golf R will soldier on as a potent ICE hatchback with its 328-hp turbo engine, snappy dual-clutch transmission, and dependable AWD system. But the potential of an electric successor looks bright - don't expect it to arrive much earlier than 2029 or 2030, though, especially with multiple brands backtracking on their EV plans. Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Auto Blog
19-06-2025
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Volkswagen's 400-HP EV With In-Wheel Motors Could Preview Future Golf R
It Would Rewrite The Hot Hatch Performance Rulebook Volkswagen is said to be working on a hot version of the ID 2 small hatchback, likely to be known as the ID 2 R. While VW doesn't sell a hatchback smaller than the Golf in the United States, the ID 2 R could pave the way for the future all-electric Golf R, and VW seems to have come up with a clever way of integrating electric motors. These plans were revealed by Autocar, with its sources suggesting the ID 2 R will use electric hub motors situated in the rear wheels. As we'll see, this layout has multiple benefits. 0:06 / 0:09 Nissan's revolutionary self-driving tech hits Japan's streets Watch More A Cut Above The Source: Volkswagen VW is already expected to debut the electric in 2026, but the new ID 2 R will be a lot more advanced. In addition to the front-mounted electric motor in the GTI, the R model will get independently controlled motors within the rear wheels, dramatically increasing performance and enabling all-wheel drive, which has traditionally been associated with the Golf R. By not going the more conventional dual-motor route, VW will be able to save weight and reduce the impact on trunk space, both important considerations in a compact car. Whereas the ID 2 GTI will make around 286 horsepower, a more likely output in the three-motor ID 2 R will be about 400 hp. This, together with the torque vectoring made possible by the hub motors, should make for a shockingly quick and agile hot hatch. Even more performance could be extracted from the larger Golf R EV with the same setup. Pros And Cons To Hub Motors Source: Volkswagen While hub motors have many advantages, they can also increase unsprung mass – the weight of the components not supported by the suspension – which can negatively impact handling and grip. On the upside, the ID 2 R's tech has the potential to filter through to other small VWs with all-wheel drive. It would also allow cars with FWD, RWD, and AWD to be more easily built on the same platform, reducing costs and complexity. Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. For now, the Golf R will soldier on as a potent ICE hatchback with its 328-hp turbo engine, snappy dual-clutch transmission, and dependable AWD system. But the potential of an electric successor looks bright – don't expect it to arrive much earlier than 2029 or 2030, though, especially with multiple brands backtracking on their EV plans. About the Author Karl Furlong View Profile
Scottish Sun
19-06-2025
- Automotive
- Scottish Sun
Britain's most popular car brand is launching groundbreaking hot hatch with 4-wheel drive & blistering 400bhp engine
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) BRITAIN'S most popular car brand has announced plans to create a groundbreaking new hot hatch. The 4-wheel drive car has a ferocious 400bhp engine, injecting some power into your drive, while Volkswagen takes on some stiff competition in the market. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 4 Volkswagen has announced plans for a brand new motor Credit: Getty 4 The vehicle will be a four-wheel drive Credit: Volkswagen AG 4 The ID 2 R will have a blistering 400bhp engine Credit: Volkswagen AG Volkswagen have become known over the years for their dependable motors and relaxed driving experience. Vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf have seen overhauls over the years but have largely remained similar with each new model. That model has allowed Volkswagen to become the UK's favourite car brand, selling 166,000 models in Britian in 2024. However, the German manufacturer has announced plans to shake-up its slow-and-steady reputation. Executives are exploring giving a green light to producing the high-performance ID 2 R. The car would be the brand's first model to use in-wheel motors and would come fitted with a blistering 400bhp engine. Having two additional electric hub motors, alongside the standard ones within the rear vehicles, will boost the cars performance - without sacrificing boot space. According to Autocar, the German manufacturer is considering using a Balkan partner to develop the ID 2 R. It will also use dynamic drive modes, brake-based yaw control and predictive torque distribution. Volkswagen's R division hopes to ensure that the car remains light and responsive, despite the added weight. The hothatch would be going head-to-head with the turbo-charged Renault 5 Turbo 3E in the market for high-powered family cars. Inside the Volkswagen ID Renault's Turbo 3E can reach 60mph in just 3.5 seconds and can reach high speeds of 168mph. When announcing the high-end vehicle, a spokesperson for the brand said: "In 1980, Renault 5 Turbo was the 1st French production car with a turbocharged petrol engine, delivering 160 hp. "In 2025, Renault 5 Turbo 3E gives the legend a boost with a dual 540 hp¹ electric powertrain and far superior performance. "Precision engineering, responsive handling, and next-generation innovation: the turbo spirit is back. 1,980 cars produced globally, with extreme customisation options, right down to tailor-made solutions from our designers." It is also an EV, meaning it emits far fewer emissions than most vehicles. Volkswagen have been approached for comment by The Sun.
The Irish Sun
19-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Irish Sun
Britain's most popular car brand is launching groundbreaking hot hatch with 4-wheel drive & blistering 400bhp engine
BRITAIN'S most popular car brand has announced plans to create a groundbreaking new hot hatch. The 4-wheel drive car has a ferocious 400bhp engine, injecting some power into your drive, while 4 Volkswagen has announced plans for a brand new motor Credit: Getty 4 The vehicle will be a four-wheel drive Credit: Volkswagen AG 4 The ID 2 R will have a blistering 400bhp engine Credit: Volkswagen AG Volkswagen have become known over the years for their dependable motors and relaxed driving experience. Vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf have seen overhauls over the years but have largely remained similar with each new model. That model has allowed Volkswagen to become the UK's favourite car brand, selling 166,000 models in Britian in 2024. However, Read More on Car News Executives are exploring giving a green light to producing the high-performance ID 2 R. The car would be the brand's first model to use in-wheel motors and would come fitted with a blistering 400bhp engine. Having two additional electric hub motors, alongside the standard ones within the rear vehicles, will boost the cars performance - without sacrificing boot space. According to Most read in Motors It will also use dynamic drive modes, brake-based yaw control and predictive torque distribution. Volkswagen's R division hopes to ensure that the car remains light and responsive, despite the added weight. The hothatch would be going head-to-head with the Inside the Volkswagen ID When announcing the high-end vehicle, a spokesperson for the brand said: "In 1980, Renault 5 Turbo was the 1st French production car with a turbocharged petrol engine, delivering 160 hp. "In 2025, Renault 5 Turbo 3E gives the legend a boost with a dual 540 hp¹ electric powertrain and far superior performance. "Precision engineering, responsive handling, and next-generation innovation: the turbo spirit is back. 1,980 cars produced globally, with extreme customisation options, right down to tailor-made solutions from our designers." It is also an EV, meaning it emits far fewer emissions than most vehicles. Volkswagen have been approached for comment by The Sun. 4 Volkswagen is the UK's most popular car brand Credit: Getty
