The MEB platform, developed for the 100% electric vehicles of the Volkswagen group, has been offering a propulsion architecture since its inception. With future urban models derived from ID concepts. Life (future ID.1 and ID.2) and Cupra UrbanRebel, it turns into traction. Explanations.
From 2025, the Volkswagen group will have a single platform (SSP, Scalable Systems Platform) for all of its electric models, whether SUVs, compacts, limousines or sports cars. It will take the advantages of the MEB and PPE technical bases. In the meantime, we have to do with what is available in the group’s current organ bank. Thereby, launched with the Volkswagen ID.3, the MEB platform is evolving.
SEM with an electric motor at the front
Two concept cars presented at the Munich Motor Show announce the technical modifications of this modular architecture: the VW IDs. Life and Cupra UrbanRebel, two evocations of future urban models such as the ID.1 and ID.2. To adapt to this segment, the SEM had to be shortened: it thus becomes MEB Small (previously called MEB Entry). But this is not the only evolution. It now adopts a single electromotor placed on the front axle and becomes a traction offer, while the ID.3 and others are propulsions.
A technical choice similar to that of the electric Renault 5
This technical choice was imposed in order to gain space for the passenger compartment and the boot, but above all for reasons of development costs. On the concepts presented in Munich the power displayed seems far from the needs of a city car (172 kW for the ID. Life, 250 kW for the Cupra), but it should start at more decent levels on production models (notably the VW offer): from 75 kW (102 hp). As for the battery, the group is developing a less expensive technology integrating iron phosphate-based cathodes (LFP), while the future Renault 5 will remain on NMC (Nickel-Manganese-Cobalt) chemistry. Three capacity levels will be offered: 27, 34 and 57 kWh. The strongest will be able to deliver a range of 400 km.
A call price of € 20,000
Like Renault, Volkswagen is targeting an attack price of around € 20,000 (excluding bonus) for its model, when the sports brand Cupra plans to position its offer from € 25,000. In addition to the technology used mentioned above, the VW Group has entrusted the development of the project to Skoda to reduce production costs. The Czech manufacturer will also draw its own urban vehicle from 2024, the Elroq. The assembly of these models will be done in Spain at Seat. Real teamwork!
