While many automakers are still hooked on offering electric versions of their existing combustion cars, Volkswagen thinks that stand-alone EV models are the best option for the future. Volkswagen design chief Klauf Bischoff says that the brand's upcoming line of ID models is a better solution than to simply roll out electric variants of models like the Golf, Passat, and Tiguan. He argues that electric car can't reach their full potential "in the traditional space" offered by a vehicle designed for internal combustion engines.

Speaking to Autocar about Volkswagen's dedicated electric architecture, the MEB, Bischoff said that it enables more freedom when it comes to packaging, as well as a different design approach that could make EVs more appealing to new customers.

"There is more freedom because the car's architecture volume and proportions are different. With the internal combustion engine out of the game, you can really move the proportions and body styles, and you have a lot more flexibility, particularly in terms of interior design," Bischoff added, arguing that "to keep in the traditional space would have been the wrong decision."

Volkswagen learned the first lessons in designing a bespoke electric model with the ID.3,, which replaces the e-Golf.} Unlike the model it replaces, the ID.3 is available with three different battery packs, which translates into three performance and range options. The base model offers up to 205 miles per charge; the mid-range version comes with up to 260 miles, while the range-topping version promises up to 340 miles per charge.

The ID.3 will be followed by the ID.4 crossover,, but Volkswagen will eventually launch an electric alternative for almost every vehicle in its lineup. } All will be built on the dedicated MEB platform, which will also be used by its sibling brands under the Volkswagen Group umbrella, Audi, Seat, and Skoda.

But while these brands opted for a dedicated EV architecture, automakers like PSA and Volvo continue to offer electric versions of their existing combustion models, like the Peugeot 208 and Volvo XC40, respectively.