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.