Volkswagen Group is positioning itself as a global leader in automotive technology at IAA Mobility 2025, unveiling two world premieres and a trade-fair debut that span the spectrum from affordable electric mobility to high-end performance and cutting-edge innovation.
At the IAA Summit exhibition, the Group launched the ID. CROSS Concept, a near-production compact electric SUV aimed at offering accessible urban mobility without compromising on quality. Built on the MEB+ platform, the concept car features a front-wheel-drive system, a 155 kW electric motor, and a WLTP-estimated range of up to 420 km. Design highlights include an expressive “Pure Positive” styling, 21-inch Balboa alloy wheels, a boot capacity of 450 litres, and an additional 25 litre frunk.
Volkswagen’s CEO of the brand, Thomas Schäfer, described the ID. CROSS as “the best version of the Volkswagen brand of all time,” promising improved operability, refined materials, and a return to a more characterful design language. The concept marks the fourth in the Electric Urban Car Family and will lead a wave of more affordably priced electric models due from 2026, including the ID. Polo and ID. EVERY1.
In a bid to strengthen brand recognition in the EV era, Volkswagen announced a new naming strategy: familiar model names like Polo and GTI will be carried over to its electric lineup. The upcoming compact EV, formerly known as ID.2all, will enter production under the ID. Polo name, with a sporty ID. Polo GTI variant to follow. Both will debut—still camouflaged at the Munich show ahead of their 2026 launches.
Beyond new models, Volkswagen Group is showcasing its technological prowess across brands Porsche, Audi, Škoda, SEAT/CUPRA, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, and Scout—roll-out innovations in fields such as batteries, charging infrastructure, AI, autonomous driving, software architectures, and unified platforms. The strategic “Tech for the People” theme emphasizes accessible, sustainable, and connected mobility “Made in Europe.”
The Group’s presentation is framed as part of its broader transformation into the “Global Automotive Tech Driver.” With streaming sessions, keynote panels, and a multi-day schedule filled with technology showcases and policy discussions, Volkswagen is aiming to engage both industry leaders and the public in its vision for the future of mobility.
