The Volkswagen ID.7 EV was supposed to launch late last year, but recent reports suggest that the delay has now turned into a cancellation for the U.S. and Canada. VW, blaming changing market conditions, had previously said the car would be delayed for an undisclosed amount of time.
A spokesperson from the automaker told Automotive News that “electric vehicles continue to be a core part of Volkswagen’s long-term product strategy, and new electric models will continue to be introduced for this market.” The ID. Buzz van recently hit the market here, though its high price will likely turn off many prospective buyers. Price was apparently a significant concern with the ID.7, too, as dealers were skeptical that its expected $50,000 to $60,000 price tag would mean low sales volume.
Volkswagen said it had seen an enthusiastic reception of the ID. Buzz and saw strong ID.4 sales so far this month, but tariffs and a shifting political attitude toward EVs and incentives could put some significant speed bumps on its path forward. That said, VW is just one of several automakers making several moves.
Many have announced a walk-back of lofty electrification goals, including Ford and General Motors, which have delayed or canceled some EV models in favor of more affordable hybrids and plug-in hybrids. Even without tariffs, the new administration has promised to kill the federal EV tax credits, which many automakers relied on to drive sales. VW moved ID.4 production to its Chattanooga, TN facility to qualify it for tax credits, but it could face notable challenges if they are removed.
[Images: Volkswagen]
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