Volkswagen has a new electric vehicle coming called the ID.4 that will land as a 2021 model. VW has announced that buyers of the vehicle will get free charging at the Electrified America DC fast charging station for three years after purchase. While electricity is cheaper than gasoline, the standard fee for charging at the network’s DC fast-charging stations is $0.43 per kilowatt-hour.
Currently, Electrified America has 443 charging stations in the United States. Electrified America is a subsidiary of Volkswagen Group and was created as part of the settlement from the diesel emissions cheating scandal VW is still trying to dig its way out of.
Electrify America: A Growing Network
Electrify America has been rapidly expanding its network of charging stations across the United States. The company aims to have over 800 charging stations with about 3,500 individual chargers by the end of 2025. This expansion is crucial for the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) as it addresses one of the main concerns potential EV buyers have: range anxiety. With more charging stations available, drivers can feel more confident about taking longer trips without worrying about running out of power.
The charging stations are strategically located along major highways and in metropolitan areas to maximize convenience for EV owners. Each station typically offers multiple chargers, including ultra-fast 150 kW and 350 kW chargers, which can significantly reduce charging times. For instance, a 350 kW charger can add about 20 miles of range per minute, making it possible to recharge a vehicle like the ID.4 to 80% in under 30 minutes.
Volkswagen ID.4: A New Era for VW
The ID.4 is the first of VW’s new electric vehicles to be sold in the US. Volkswagen does produce the ID.3 for Europe, but that car isn’t offered in the States. For now, the battery capacity and driving range for the ID.4 are a mystery. Volkswagen has said the car would drive as far as 310 miles per charge on the European WLTP cycle in the past. Driving ranges in the US are typically lower than the European estimates.
The ID.4 is built on Volkswagen’s MEB platform, which is designed specifically for electric vehicles. This platform allows for a spacious interior, as the electric drivetrain takes up less space than a traditional internal combustion engine. The ID.4 is expected to offer a variety of features, including advanced driver-assistance systems, a high-quality infotainment system, and a comfortable, modern interior.
Volkswagen has also emphasized the sustainability aspect of the ID.4. The vehicle is produced in a carbon-neutral factory, and VW aims to make the entire lifecycle of the car as environmentally friendly as possible. This includes using recycled materials in the interior and ensuring that the batteries can be recycled at the end of their life.
The ID.4 is expected to compete with other electric SUVs like the Tesla Model Y, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and the Chevrolet Bolt EUV. With its competitive pricing, advanced features, and the added benefit of free charging for three years, the ID.4 is poised to be a strong contender in the growing EV market.
The Volkswagen ID.4 represents a significant step forward for the company as it transitions to electric mobility. The partnership with Electrify America to offer free charging for three years is a compelling incentive for potential buyers. As the charging infrastructure continues to expand and improve, the adoption of electric vehicles like the ID.4 is likely to accelerate, paving the way for a more sustainable future.
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