Volkswagen is exploring plans for a high-performance version of the ID 2, and this could be the first from the manufacturer to use in-wheel motors as part of its all-wheel-drive system, according to Autocar.
The ID 2 R is to be positioned above the ID 2 GTI, first shown as a concept in 2023, and is said to retain the front-mounted drive motor and power electronics of the ID 2 GTI. The ID 2 R will then add two independently controlled hub motors within the rear wheels, offering significantly increased performance and all-wheel drive without compromising luggage compartment space, according to the publication.
Citing hints from sources within the Wolfsburg-based manufacturer, Autocar reported that the R version of the compact electric car is being developed “with input from a technical partner based in the Balkans” believed to specialise in lightweight, high-output in-wheel motor systems.
This will combine predictive torque distribution, brake-based yaw control and dynamic drive modes to offer “hyper-hatch performance and agility” without a bulk and cost of a conventional dual-motor configuration, according to the source.
That said, expensive modifications to the ID 2’s MEB Plus platform are not required should Volkswagen decide to go the more conventional route and house a second rear-axle motor instead, Autocar wrote. With around 290 PS expected from the ID2 GTI, the all-wheel drive ID 2 R could output upwards of 400 PS from its three-motor electric powertrain layout.
Using in-wheel motors means that the packaging of rear-drive components within the wheels will enable Volkswagen to bring all-wheel drive to compact models on the same platform without added compromises to their packaging, while enabling the carmaker to build FWD, RWD and AWD layouts on a single architecture with minimal difference in hardware, according to the publication.
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