The Volkswagen Group is set to expand its presence in the European electric vehicle market with the introduction of a new family of small electric cars. This initiative, called the “Electric Urban Car Family,” includes two models from Volkswagen, one from CUPRA, and one from Škoda. The starting price for these vehicles will be around EUR 25,000, with sales expected to begin in 2026.
All four models are built on an updated version of the MEB+ electric platform and feature the Volkswagen Group’s new unified cell battery technology. According to the company, this approach will help reduce costs through economies of scale while providing ranges of up to 450 kilometers for these small cars. The group aims to achieve about a 20 percent share in Europe’s growing segment of electric small cars within a few years, which could mean several hundred thousand units sold annually.
Forecasts suggest that the market for electric small cars in Europe could quadruple over the next eight years. With this move, Volkswagen Group seeks to establish itself as a leading force in automotive technology within this expanding sector.
The new vehicles bring features typically found in higher-end segments into entry-level models. These include advanced assistance systems such as Travel Assist with lane change function and traffic light recognition, LED matrix lighting options, massage seats, pre-conditioning via app, and an updated navigation system with integrated charging planner. An app store provides access to more than 100 applications across various categories. All models come standard with DC fast-charging capability.
At IAA Mobility, all four all-electric small car models were presented together for the first time. Volkswagen introduced both a hatchback (ID. Polo) and an SUV (ID. CROSS Concept), each featuring its “Pure Positive” design language focused on stability and likability. The ID. Polo GTI marks Volkswagen’s first all-electric model bearing the GTI badge for sportier performance combined with everyday usability.
CUPRA’s contribution is the Raval hatchback model known for its sporty character and unconventional styling unique to the brand. Škoda offers the Epiq city SUV designed as a practical choice for families or lifestyle-oriented buyers; it incorporates Škoda’s latest “Modern Solid” design philosophy inside and out.
“With this vehicle family, we are pursuing the goal of achieving a market share of around 20 percent in the rapidly growing segment of electric small cars in our home market of Europe in the medium term,” said a spokesperson from Volkswagen Group.
