European brand hits back at BYD Dolphin, MG4, Hyundai Inster, Kia EV2 and GWM Ora: Cut-price Volkswagen ID.1 takes shape in new design sketches

Things could be looking Up for Volkswagen.

It’s been a long time coming, but VW is nearing the reveal of its new ID.1 concept, the car it says will be a $30,000 electric hatchback.

It's Volkswagen's future answer to cut-price electric cars such as the BYD Dolphin, MG4, GWM Ora, Hyundai Inster and Kia EV2.

While a shadowy teaser was released last week, showcasing the front-on silhouette of the little EV, there are now sketched images showing off more of what to expect from the spiritual successor to the likes of the VW Up!.

Volkswagen’s official global Instagram account along with Head of Design Andreas Mindt posted the sketches along with the caption: “Bold confidence meets timeless simplicity!”

“With its compact yet spacious design, our new entry-level electric car blends functionality and style effortlessly,” the Wolfsburg brand went on, “From the charismatic front to the smiling rear end, every detail creates a joyful connection.”

While it’s only the concept for now, it previews a production model set to arrive in Europe in 2027 according to reports, though a future in Australia is uncertain.

“An affordable, high-quality and profitable electric Volkswagen from Europe for Europe,” Volkswagen CEO Thomas Schäfer has called it, though too few details exist as of yet to determine if the car could be viable Down Under.

The brand’s local EV plans have finally started to take-off, with the ID.Buzz people mover and cargo van the first electric models to launch for VW here.

The ID.4 mid-size electric SUV is next, though its launch has been pushed back numerous times.