Volkswagen launches the cheaper ID. Polo EV after securing 25,000 orders in weeks
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- Volkswagen opened pre-orders for the ID. Polo with a 37 kWh battery in Europe, starting at 24,995 euros (~$29,000) — undercutting the 52 kWh version that launched in late April at 33,795 euros (~$40,000).
- The ID. Polo drew 25,000 orders within weeks of the larger-battery version going on sale, which Volkswagen cited as justification for accelerating the cheaper variant's end-of-summer launch.
- The 37 kWh ID. Polo Trend delivers a WLTP range of 207 miles (334 km), DC fast charging up to 90 kW (10–80% in roughly 23 minutes), and standard vehicle-to-load capability supplying up to 3.6 kW to external devices.
- Volkswagen is positioning the ID. Polo as a direct counter to Chinese brands like BYD and Chery, which the source says are rapidly stealing market share in Europe — Volkswagen's home market.
- The ID. Polo lineup spans three power outputs (85 kW, 99 kW, and 155 kW) with a 166 kW GTI hot hatch due this fall; the two lower trims pair the 37 kWh LFP battery, while the 155 kW uses a 52 kWh NMC pack.
- In the UK, the ID. Polo Launch Edition goes on sale July 30 starting at £25,555 (~$34,000), with the standard Life model launching September 10 at £23,945 (~$32,000); 52 kWh models qualify for the £1,500 UK Electric Car Grant.
Why it matters: By undercutting its 52 kWh ID. Polo by roughly $11,000, Volkswagen is making its first serious price play against Chinese brands like BYD and Chery stealing European market share. The LFP battery choice signals VW is willing to trade range for cost to win budget-conscious buyers; 25,000 orders already booked for the pricier variant suggest demand is real.
![Volkswagen reveals the first electric GTI, a 222 hp EV hot hatch for $45,000 [Images]](https://electrek.co/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2026/05/Volkswagen-first-electric-GTI-ID-Polo.jpeg?quality=82&strip=all&w=1400)
![Volkswagen ID. Polo GTI leaks as a spicy new EV hot hatch [Images]](https://electrek.co/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2026/05/Volkswagen-ID-Polo-GTI-leaks.jpeg?quality=82&strip=all&w=1400)
