Electric vehicle enthusiasts were buzzing with excitement about Volkswagen's promising new entry-level EV, the ID. Polo, promising to make electric mobility more accessible than ever before. But recent industry reports suggest the journey might not be as smooth as initially anticipated.

Volkswagen brand chief Thomas Schäfer had previously announced an ambitious plan to launch an electric vehicle starting at 25,000 euros, positioning the ID. Polo as a game-changing affordable option for European consumers. However, emerging details indicate the initial launch might look quite different from the original vision.

According to German newspaper Handelsblatt, the most budget-friendly ID. Polo model will likely be absent from the initial market rollout. Dealers suggest Volkswagen will first introduce higher-end trims, with prices potentially exceeding 30,000 euros. The primary challenge stems from a shortage of lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, forcing the company to delay its most affordable configuration.

The initial launch is expected to feature only the most powerful 155 kW (208 hp) version, equipped with a 52 kWh nickel-manganese-cobalt battery. This model promises an impressive WLTP range of 450 km (280 miles), maintaining Volkswagen's reputation for performance. The vehicle's dimensions remain consistent with its predecessor, measuring 4,053 mm long, 1,816 mm wide, and 1,530 mm tall, with a spacious 2,600 mm wheelbase.

Industry experts like Autocar's James Attwood remain cautiously optimistic, describing the ID. Polo as potentially the "best Volkswagen EV yet" and a "strong all-rounder" in the increasingly competitive small EV market. However, the delayed availability of the base model raises questions about Volkswagen's ability to compete with emerging Chinese and Korean electric vehicle manufacturers.

Volkswagen's original product roadmap included multiple power configurations: 85 kW (114 hp), 99 kW (133 hp), and the high-performance 155 kW variant. A GTI version delivering 166 kW (223 hp) is still planned for late 2026. Internal dealer estimates suggest the base model could be delayed an additional 6 to 9 months, potentially pushing its availability into 2027.

As the electric vehicle landscape continues evolving rapidly, Volkswagen's strategy will be closely watched by industry analysts and consumers alike. The ID. Polo represents more than just a new car—it symbolizes the automotive industry's ongoing transformation towards more sustainable, accessible electric mobility.