VW ID.6 Electric SUV Spotted in Patent Images

The largest electric VW model thus far has been spotted in patent images in China. The three-row, seven-seat ID.6 SUV was foreshadowed by the ID. Roomzz concept unveiled almost two years ago in Shanghai, with the production design landing fairly close to the concept minus the sliding rear doors. The ID.6 is due to go on sale in China later this year, adding to the two versions of the smaller ID.4 that will also be offered.

The specs of this model have not been officially confirmed yet, but it’s worth mentioning that in concept form the ID. Roomzz was powered by an 82-kWh battery, giving it a range of 280 miles in the WLTP cycle. It’s likely that the production version could feature a similar battery size and range as well as a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive setup with a 301-hp output. The ID.6 will, of course, shares its MEB platform with the ID.4 and other models. Overall, the design of the ID.6 shows some family resemblance to the ID.4, albeit with a floating roof, scowling “mouth,” and a pair of sunglass-shaped headlights.

But one item that the ID. Roomzz concept featured that we’re unlikely to see is a retractable steering wheel and advanced autonomous capability. It’s a little too early for such a system in production form as it suggests Level 4 autonomy, although Wolfsburg is certainly working on autonomous technology to deploy in production cars in the coming years.

Curiously enough, the ID.6 is slated to be produced and sold only in China for now, despite the U.S. market’s penchant for large, three-row sport utilities. This doesn’t rule out the U.S. receiving a different large electric Volkswagen in the near future, but for now it appears that this particular SUV will only be offered there for the time being.

The ID.6 won’t stay as the largest MEB platform model for long, as the production version of the ID.Buzz is due next year. Admittedly, it’s difficult to picture Volkswagen’s electric lineup in the U.S. without a large SUV in the long term, even if it’s not a luxury offering.

Does VW need a large electric SUV in its stateside lineup at the moment? Let us know in the comments below.

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