For the first time Volkswagen is offering a fully electric SUV – the ID.4. As the second model from the brand to be launched on the dedicated MEB platform, it will also offer four-wheel drive at a later date. Like the ID.3, the new model is being launched as a limited-run 1^ST Edition with a range of pre-configured trim levels to follow later in the year. The ID.4 1^ST Edition will cost £37,800 after the plug-in vehicle grant is applied, and is expected to arrive in dealerships during March.

Unveiled during a digital world premiere last September, the ID.4 is the second model in the ID. family and the first to be sold globally. From today customers in the UK will be able to place their orders for the ID.4 1^ST Edition. This is priced at £40,800 (before any Government grant is applied).

There are several features to mark the ID.4 1^ST Edition apart from future ID.4 models. These include internal and external ‘1^ST’ badging, and a striking interior with Florence Brown highlights. Four metallic exterior paint colours will be available for the 1^ST Edition: Glacier White, Blue Dusk, Manganese Grey and Honey Yellow.

The new limited-edition ID. model comes with plenty of standard kit. Externally this includes 20-inch ‘Drammen’ alloy wheels, LED headlights and taillights, tinted rear windows, and a reversing camera. Inside, drivers will find ArtVelours microfleece seats which – like the steering wheel – are heated, 30-colour ambient lighting, 10-inch infotainment display with Discover Pro navigation system and ID. Light, first seen on the ID.3 – a dynamic LED band the width of the windscreen, which changes its pattern and colour to supplement and support navigation signals, charging status, driver assist technologies or the natural voice control. The model also offers a range of safety features including Adaptive Cruise Control, Front Assist, and Lane Assist, with parking sensors front and rear.

The ID.4 1^ST Edition has a WLTP range of 310 miles from its 77 kWh (net) battery capacity. It also benefits from rapid charging compatibility of up to 125 kW, with the ability to add up to 199 miles of range in just 30 minutes. With 201 bhp of power and 229 lb ft of torque instantly available, the rear-wheel drive ID.4 1^ST completes the 0 to 62 mph sprint in 8.5 seconds before maximum speed is reached at 99 mph, where permitted. This electric SUV also comes with the Volkswagen brand’s high-voltage battery warranty of eight years or 100,000 miles.

Like the ID.3, the ID.4 is manufactured at the Zwickau facility in Germany, with production of the car being carbon-neutral. In time, five factories on three continents will be producing the new electric SUV. Aside from Zwickau, the Chinese plants of Anting and Foshan will commence production before the end of the year. The production launch in Chattanooga (USA) and at the German plant of Emden are planned for 2022.

ID. Family Product Manager at Volkswagen UK, Joe Laurence, said: “With the popularity of SUVs as high as ever, we are proud to be introducing our first all-electric contender in the form of the ID.4. Its external dimensions are similar to the Tiguan, but thanks to the MEB platform and the packaging benefits of an electric drivetrain it boasts even more interior space along with that all-important lofty driving position.

“The ID.4 is also our first electric vehicle that can be fitted with an optional tow bar, suitable for trailers weighing up to 1,000kg. This really is an incredibly practical car, and with the batteries mounted under the passenger compartment, it has a low centre of gravity which equips it with great driving dynamics and balanced handling. We know our customers are going to love it.”