Future electric vehicles like ID.2all and ID. Every1 to launch with conventional model names by 2027
In a significant shift to its electric vehicle (EV) strategy, Volkswagen has confirmed it will begin phasing out the “ID” branding from its future EV lineup. The German automaker plans to adopt conventional names for its upcoming electric models, beginning w
Volkswagen Confirms Strategic Shift in EV Branding
Martin Sander, Volkswagen Board Member for Sales, Marketing, and After Sales, revealed the development in an interview with German publication Auto und Wirtschaft. According to Sander, the production variants of the ID. 2all and ID. Every1 will not retain their concept names. Instead, the company will revive established nameplates or introduce entirely new ones, aligning its electric offerings more closely with traditional naming conventions.
This means the ID. Every1, which previews a premium hatchback, could be marketed under the iconic Polo name. Meanwhile, the ID. 2all may take on branding reminiscent of past Volkswagen small cars such as the Lupo, Fox, or Up!.
Why Volkswagen Is Moving Away from ‘ID’
Volkswagen’s move follows a broader trend in the auto industry, where electric-specific naming conventions have largely failed to resonate with consumers. German rivals like Mercedes-Benz and BMW have faced similar challenges with their EQ and “i” series, respectively. Audi also experimented with distinguishing EVs through numeric odd-even designations, a practice now being reconsidered.
For Volkswagen, the “ID” series started with high hopes, beginning with the ID. 3 hatchback, which was unveiled in concept form in 2017. Since then, the automaker has rolled out a full suite of EVs under the ID family, including the ID. 4 SUV, ID. 5 coupe-SUV, ID. Buzz electric van, and ID. 7 sedan. However, as the company aims for mass adoption, it’s returning to tried-and-tested branding strategies that evoke familiarity and consumer trust.
Existing ID Models to Be Renamed Starting 2026
Alongside launching new models with conventional names, Volkswagen is also planning to rebrand its existing ID lineup starting in 2026. This comprehensive rebranding effort is part of the company’s broader mission to make its EVs more approachable and less concept-driven. It also reflects a desire to eliminate potential confusion among consumers unfamiliar with abstract alphanumeric naming systems.
A Familiar Future for Volkswagen EVs
By shifting to traditional model names, Volkswagen is signaling its commitment to mainstreaming electric mobility. Names like Polo, Golf, or even Up! carry decades of brand equity and global recognition—advantages the “ID” nomenclature simply couldn’t match. The goal is clear: make EVs feel like the natural evolution of beloved models, not entirely new and unfamiliar territory.
As electric vehicles become the standard, Volkswagen’s decision to return to its roots in branding could help bridge the gap between legacy and innovation.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
