Volkswagen, new names for electric models that release historic badges like Polo

Volkswagen has announced that it will present the new ID.2 at the IAA in Munich (9-14 September), but it will not be called that. At its market launch, scheduled for 2026, it will be offered as the VW ID. 2 Polo. The aim is to bridge the gap between today's classic car world and tomorrow's electric car world. Until now, VW's electric cars have been abbreviated ID. followed by a number: from the compact ID.3 to the larger ID.7. Volkswagen will also present the high-performance version of the ID.2 in Munich, still disguised but with new names, on both small cars. While the ID.2 will be launched as the VW ID. Polo, the sporty version will be offered as the VW ID. Polo GTI.

Volkswagen is therefore transferring the GTI tradition to the electric world as well. In addition to the new electric variants, existing models with internal combustion engines will also continue to be produced. For potential buyers, this will mean that in the future, each vehicle family will offer both an electric and a conventionally powered variant.

Since many of the current model names are still firmly rooted in people's minds, Volkswagen says, the impact of future new designations will ensure that electric vehicles will have the same values ​​in terms of quality, design, and technology within everyone's reach.

The Polo is one of the Wolfsburg brand's most successful models. Over 20 million units have been produced since 1975, including more than 470,000 units in 2024. To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the model series, the transition to an electric future is now planned. Volkswagen has also confirmed that the new strategy will not be limited to just one model.