VW reaches 2 million EV sales milestone and bets on affordable prices for 2026

VW advances in the EV market with 2 million cars sold, dominates Europe, and launches the electric Polo for ~€25k to boost the next wave of electric vehicles.

Global Overview: VW Celebrates Historic EV Milestone

If you follow the headlines about the transition to electric cars, you know the story isn't simple. While some manufacturers stumble, VW has shown consistent progress and expressive numbers.

The brand announced this Friday that it has sold its 2 millionth EV, with the ID.3, reinforcing that the achievement belongs to VW and not the group as a whole, which includes Porsche and Audi.

Global Milestones

• Sale of the 2 millionth EV with the ID.3 (announced by VW)
• Globally: 628,000 ID.3 and 901,000 ID.4/ID.5 sold to date
• ID.7 accounts for 132,000 units since its launch in 2023

Performance in the US

In the US, the pace of electrification has not been as strong as in other regions. The ID.4 and ID. Buzz faced recalls, leaving sales unstable. The ID. Buzz will not have a 2026 model year in the American market, and the ID.7 has not yet arrived in the local market. Furthermore, regulations and the end of incentives contributed to a less favorable environment for EVs.

Dominance in Europe and Signs of Recovery

In Europe, VW is growing and has become the largest seller of EVs, eclipsing a Tesla in retreat. EV sales in the region rose about 50%, totaling 247,900 units.

On the global scale, VW sold 382,000 fully electric vehicles last year, maintaining a level close to the previous year.

Software, Rivian, and Global Competition

The automaker has sought to develop next-generation software, with a joint venture with Rivian that may help achieve this goal. Meanwhile, the American market remains challenging, leading VW to explore hybrid options. Competition comes mainly from Chinese manufacturers.

What's Coming in 2026

Despite delays and cancellations, VW maintains its plan to launch several new products this year. The ID. Polo will arrive as the most affordable EV, priced around €25,000. The manufacturer also plans to launch four compact electric models in 2026, seeking to bring EVs closer in price to their fossil fuel counterparts.

These new models make electromobility accessible to even more customers, stated Martin Sander, board member for Sales.

This strategy of expanding the portfolio with cheaper options is presented by VW as essential to bringing electric mobility to more people and advancing the group's transformation.

What is your opinion on the future of VW in this scenario? Do you think the manufacturer will be able to maintain the pace with more models and lower prices by 2026?