Volkswagen Throws Electric Strategy “In the Trash”

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The company’s revised strategy is expected to be rolled out in the coming months, and it will likely involve a gradual shift towards electrification

The German car manufacturer had initially said it would only be producing electric vehicles by 2033, but it now appears the company is adopting a more flexible approach.

It appears Volkswagen and Audi are no longer strictly sticking to the original timeline and are leaving the door open for combustion engine models.

Volkswagen’s Chief Development Officer, Kai Grünitz, recently wouldn’t rule out the Golf Mk. 8 continuing to be available with petrol and diesel engines for a long time, even though the company is getting ready to bring out the all-electric Golf Mk. 9 – a model being developed in partnership with the American electric vehicle startup Rivian.

In a further indication of a change in direction, Volkswagen had previously stated that the upcoming T-Roc would be its final model with a combustion engine, but recent reports suggest the company may be considering additional petrol and diesel models beyond that.

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Volkswagen’s revised approach to combustion engines comes in the wake of speculation about a possible policy shift within the European Union.

Last week, Der Spiegel reported that the EU Commission is exploring “possible flexibilities” regarding the planned 2035 ban on sales of new petrol and diesel cars.

If this regulation is relaxed, Volkswagen’s decision to continue making combustion engine cars might be a deliberate move to adjust to a shifting regulatory landscape.

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If confirmed, the move would mark a substantial change in approach, indicating that Volkswagen isn’t yet willing to completely give up on internal combustion engines.

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