ICE Powered R models will be put to rest by 2030 according to Volkswagen
Image: Volkswagen
Image: Volkswagen
Image: Volkswagen
New week, same headline but just with a different automaker or sub-brand. This time around, Volkswagen has confirmed ICE powered R models will be no more after the close of the decade.
Image: Volkswagen
In a recent interview Reinhold Ivenz, the R brand’s boss mentioned the sub-division of Volkswagen is already gravitating to fully electric vehicles meaning ICE Powered R models will be no more. In addition, there are “several electric R models in the planning stages,” but based on timelines for vehicle production, it could still be a considerable amount of time before these make it to the market.
Volkswagen has the intention to become a fully electric automaker by 2035, which includes the high-performance R division which will adopt the technology by the end of the decade. Working towards usability and practicality, the German automaker detailed that the models from the performance brand would feature “quick and convenient” charging while benefiting from the latest technology of concept cars and racing.
Image: Volkswagen
There are no concrete timelines nor models that have been mentioned but considering the size of the Volkswagen full-fat R range, most future EVs from the automaker would logically need to utilise the badge to continue bolstering sales. As with all companies gearing up for the chapter of electrification, this will likely be a gradual transition over the next few years.
Both the new Golf R and Tiguan R still employ the EA888 motor that has been used in high-performance applications for Volkswagen for over a decade. With electrification looming, this means that any completely novel future ICE powered R models are unrealistic. Volkswagen is yet to introduce an electric vehicle to the South African market while models like the ID.4 are achieving commendable sales success abroad.
