Price and Range
The Volkswagen ID.4 has come a long way since its initial release. At a price of $66,000, it may seem a bit steep. However, there is a rebate available that brings the price down to $59,190. That’s not a bad deal considering the features and technology this electric vehicle offers. When it comes to range, the ID.4 can go up to 219 miles on a single charge. That’s quite impressive and should be sufficient for most drivers in New Zealand.
Driving Experience
Now, let’s take the ID.4 for a spin and see how it performs on the road. As someone who is not particularly familiar with Volkswagen vehicles, I must say, I was pleasantly surprised. The issues that plagued the earlier models have been addressed and fixed. This means that now we have a true competitor for Tesla in the electric vehicle market. The drive is smooth, and the handling is precise. Volkswagen seems to have hit the mark with the ID.4.
Technology
When it comes to technology, Volkswagen has incorporated some interesting features in the ID.4. One notable feature is the “Twist and Go” system. This allows you to easily switch between drive modes by simply twisting a knob. You can select neutral, reverse, drive, or B mode for maximum regenerative braking. While it doesn’t offer full one-pedal driving, it comes pretty close. It’s a convenient feature that adds to the overall driving experience.
The ID.4 is also equipped with a 10-inch central touchscreen display. This serves as the control center for the vehicle, allowing you to access various functions and settings with ease. The touchscreen is responsive and user-friendly, making it a breeze to navigate through different menus and options. Volkswagen has done a great job in incorporating technology seamlessly into the ID.4.
Braking Performance
As we put the ID.4 to the test, we cannot forget about the braking performance. The brakes on this electric vehicle work well, providing a smooth and responsive braking experience. Whether you’re coming to a complete stop or just slowing down, the brakes perform admirably. It’s reassuring to know that Volkswagen has paid attention to this important aspect of the driving experience.
In conclusion, the Volkswagen ID.4 is a viable option for those looking for an electric vehicle in New Zealand. With its competitive price, impressive range, and improved performance, it has certainly earned its place in the market. The incorporation of innovative technology adds to the overall appeal of the ID.4. Volkswagen has done well in addressing the initial issues and delivering a reliable and enjoyable electric vehicle.
Display and Connectivity
The display of the Volkswagen ID.4 offers Android and Apple connectivity, although it is wired rather than wireless. While the location of the wireless phone charger in the center console may not be ideal, it is still a useful addition. In terms of extra gadgets, the ID.3 features a heated steering wheel and a range of voice commands.
360 Birds Eye Camera System
The Volkswagen ID.4 is equipped with a 360 Birds Eye camera system, providing a comprehensive view of the surroundings. However, unlike some other models, the camera is fixed, limiting the ability to rotate the view. Nevertheless, the pre-selected options offer sufficient visibility for most situations.
Comfortable Seats
The ID.4’s seats are a standout feature, particularly in the pro model. They are soft and velvety, with vinyl on the sides. The fabric seats, made of microfleece fiber, provide a luxurious feel. Additionally, the higher seat height of the ID.4 makes it easy to get in and out of the car, even for those with mobility constraints.
Customizable Interior Lighting
For those who appreciate personalization, the ID.4 offers over 30 different colors to choose from for the interior cabin lighting. This feature adds a playful touch to the overall driving experience. Additionally, when the car is prompted with a question, a light bar under the windscreen illuminates, providing a visually pleasing response.
Ride Quality
The ride quality of the Volkswagen ID.4 is exceptional, offering a smooth and comfortable experience for passengers. Even when encountering speed bumps, the ID.4’s suspension absorbs the impact effectively. In comparison to other electric vehicles like the Tesla Model Y, the ID.4’s ride is significantly more comfortable.
Adjustable Armrests
The ID.4 accommodates for comfort with adjustable armrests. While it may lack a high raise center console, the inclusion of adjustable armrests ensures that drivers and passengers can find a comfortable position during their journey.
Boot Space
One of the standout features of the Volkswagen ID.4 in New Zealand is its impressive boot space. With a capacity of 543 liters, it offers ample room for all your belongings. Whether you’re a self-loathing, pasty potato enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates the convenience of extra space, this car has you covered. And if that’s not enough, you can always fold down the back seats and enjoy over 1500 liters of storage. The distance to the back seats is so generous that you could even take a comfortable nap during long road trips. It’s safe to say that the ID.4 is the ultimate camping and family car when it comes to space.
Interior Comfort
When it comes to comfort, the ID.4 doesn’t disappoint. The lack of a front compartment, which some may find strange, is compensated by the abundance of space in the back. The legroom and headroom are remarkable, thanks to the absence of a sloping roofline. Even at 5’10”, I found the backseat to be spacious enough to accommodate even the tallest of toddlers. Added features such as ISO fix points make it ideal for families with young children.
Performance on Motorways
Now, let’s talk about how this family vehicle handles motorway speeds. With 150 kW of power and 310 Nm of torque, the ID.4 may not be the fastest car on the block, but it certainly holds its own. It provides a spirited and enjoyable driving experience, even at higher speeds. While it may not break any acceleration records with its Z to 100 time, it offers enough power to confidently navigate motorways, making it a reliable choice for both city and highway driving.
In conclusion, the Volkswagen ID.4 in New Zealand offers impressive boot space, interior comfort, and reliable performance on motorways. Whether you’re a family in need of ample room or an adventurer looking for a versatile car for your outdoor pursuits, the ID.4 is a winner. So, if you value space and practicality without compromising on style, this could be the perfect car for you.
Power and Range
The Volkswagen ID.4 stands out for its big battery, which is why it has a substantial mass. With a 77 KW battery (around 82 KW hours, but 77 KW usable), this electric SUV delivers an impressive range. However, the real question is whether it lives up to its range figure, and to find out, I took it for a drive.
Ride Quality
While the adaptive cruise works fine, the lane-keeping assist is a little erratic. But let’s shift our focus to the ride quality. As I settle into the micro-fleece seat with my armrest, I’m immediately impressed by the exceptional noise deadening in the car. Even while cruising at 80 kilometers per hour on Oaklands Motorway, I can speak to you in a whisper. It’s incredibly quiet inside, with no vibrations or jiggles. The suspension is on the softer side, giving it a slightly floaty feeling compared to a Tesla Model Y, but it’s all in the name of comfort. I can easily picture myself taking long-distance trips in this car.
Efficiency
Now let’s talk about efficiency. While the official figure is displayed on the screen, in reality, I’m getting around 13.9 to 14 kwatt hours per 100 kilometers. That’s actually quite good. I’ll come back to this later and provide more details.
Charging Speed
When it comes to charging speed, the Volkswagen ID.4 can handle a 7 KW charger AC or an 11 KW charger AC if you have three-phase power in your house. However, for DC charging, it caps out at 135 KW peak, which is not remarkable for a car of this caliber. I expected Volkswagen to offer much faster DC charging speed as a standard feature.
Note: The article is based on the provided content and the writing style may not reflect personal opinions or experiences.
Volkswagen ID.4 – New Zealand Review
Ecotricity: The Sustainable Power Provider
During the road trip with the Volkswagen ID.4, it’s important to consider the source of electricity that powers the car on the journey. In New Zealand, the chosen provider is Ecotricity. As the country’s only certified climate-positive electricity provider, Ecotricity plays a significant role in turning back the clock on climate change. Certified by Toyu, their commitment is genuine and provides an opportunity for individuals to actively contribute to the fight against climate change. By joining Ecotricity, one supports the use of super affordable electricity generated solely through wind, hydro, and solar power. Rather than relying on governments to take action, individuals can take charge and make a difference simply by subscribing to Ecotricity.
Understanding the Volkswagen ID.4
Before embarking on a road trip, it’s essential to acquaint oneself with the Volkswagen ID.4. Over the next couple of days, I had the opportunity to explore the features and capabilities of this electric vehicle. With this information in mind, our journey from Unity to New Plymouth could begin. The distance between these two locations is 164 km, and as we set off, the ID.4 displayed a range of 283 km. With just over half a charge, approximately 56%, the ID.4’s efficiency would now be put to the test.
An Average Efficiency
The official efficiency rating for the Volkswagen ID.4 is 16.9 kWh (kilowatt-hours) per 100 km. This figure is considered average and falls within the normal range for electric vehicles. It is worth noting that the efficiency of the ID.4 depends on various factors, such as driving conditions and individual driving habits.
As we embarked on our road trip, I kept a close eye on the efficiency of the ID.4. It was intriguing to observe how the car performed, given the mix of urban and open road driving. The ID.4’s efficiency, while not exceptional, was reliable and provided a comfortable driving experience.
A Sustainable Drive
Throughout the road trip, the Volkswagen ID.4 maintained a steady performance, showcasing its ability to navigate New Zealand’s unique driving conditions. With Ecotricity’s sustainable electricity powering the vehicle, the ID.4 aligned with the values of environmentally conscious individuals who strive to minimize their carbon footprint.
The seamless integration of technology and sustainability in the ID.4 makes it an appealing choice for those seeking an electric vehicle that offers both comfort and eco-friendliness. By utilizing renewable energy sources, Volkswagen has created a car that not only reduces carbon emissions but also contributes to a cleaner and greener future.
In conclusion, the Volkswagen ID.4, coupled with the sustainable energy provided by Ecotricity, offers New Zealanders an opportunity to embrace electric mobility without compromising on performance. As the EV industry continues to grow, it is crucial to invest in sustainable energy solutions and drive towards a more sustainable transportation future.
Insulated Glass and Drum Brakes: Surprising Features of the Volkswagen ID.4
When it comes to the Volkswagen ID.4, it’s the simple things that make a difference. Take, for example, the insulated glass on the back rear window and the back rear side windows. This may seem like a small detail, but it plays a big role in reducing noise and maintaining a comfortable temperature inside the car.
But that’s not all. Here’s something you might find surprising – the ID.4 is equipped with drum brakes on the rear. Now, you might be thinking that drum brakes are outdated technology, but Volkswagen has done their research and found that they are actually slightly more efficient.
Why? Well, drum brakes grab less when freewheeling, resulting in smoother and more controlled deceleration. It’s a small detail that adds to the overall driving experience, and it’s pretty cool to see Volkswagen thinking outside the box.
Efficient Freewheeling and Missing Heat Pump
Speaking of freewheeling, the ID.4 has an interesting feature. If you reach a speed of 100 and shift into neutral, the car effortlessly coasts along, slowly decelerating. It’s a remarkable experience, highlighting the efficiency of the vehicle and its aerodynamic design. However, as we encounter an uphill climb, it’s clear that the car’s performance is not limitless.
While the ID.4 has its strengths, there are also some areas where Volkswagen could improve. One notable omission is the lack of a heat pump. In winter, this means that warming the air inside the car is not as efficient as it could be. Those familiar with heat pumps in their homes know the benefits they offer in terms of efficiency and comfort.
The Love-Hate Relationship: Lane Keeping and Menu Navigation
Now, let’s delve into what I love and hate about the ID.4 after spending a few days with it. Starting with the dislikes, the lane keeping software can be a bit overzealous. It constantly tries to guide you back into the center of the lane, even if you veer slightly off course. While safety is important, it can become quite annoying.
The next item on my list of complaints is the menu navigation. Unfortunately, it’s not the most logical and intuitive system. Navigating through the various settings and options can be a bit confusing and time-consuming. It’s an aspect that could benefit from some simplification and user-friendly improvements.
The Interior Color Lights
One of the cool features of the Volkswagen ID.4 is the ability to change the interior color lights. It adds a touch of customization and personalization to the driving experience. With multicolored lights, you can create a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere inside the car. However, there is a slight drawback. The option to change the interior color lights is hidden in a submenu, which can be a bit confusing and not very user-friendly. It takes a few menus to access it, making it less intuitive than one would expect.
Tactile Buttons and Adjustments
A common problem with cars like Tesla and BYD is the lack of tactile buttons for adjustments. The Volkswagen ID.4 also suffers from this issue. For example, if you want to adjust the temperature, you have to rely on the touchscreen interface. This means taking your eyes off the road to align your finger precisely with the controls. It can be frustrating, as sometimes your finger may miss the mark, leading to a slight delay in making the desired adjustments. It’s like trying to hit a bullseye with a big fleshy sausage.
Fingerprints and Scratches
Another drawback of the ID.4’s interior is its proneness to fingerprints and scratches. The black shiny surfaces in the car, despite being visually appealing, can easily show signs of wear and tear. Even with only 500 km on the odometer, the car already has little scratches on the shiny bits. It can be frustrating to see your brand-new car lose its flawless appearance so quickly. To maintain its pristine look, you’ll either have to keep a cloth handy to wipe it down regularly or be prepared for the eventual replacement of those affected parts.
Rear Window Switches
The arrangement of the rear window switches in the ID.4 takes a bit of getting used to. Unlike traditional cars that have separate switches for front and rear windows, the ID.4 combines them into one set of switches. To switch between controlling the front and rear windows, you have to push a button. This adds an extra step in the process and requires you to divert your attention from the road to figure it out. It may take some time to develop muscle memory and avoid the distraction.
A Fun Complaint
Despite the critical remarks, I do have one complaint that can be considered more light-hearted. Although this may not affect the overall functionality of the car, it’s worth mentioning for those who enjoy a fun and quirky driving experience.
Comfort
The Volkswagen ID.4 is undeniably a comfortable car to drive. Whether you’re a seasoned driver or someone new to electric vehicles, this car offers a smooth and pleasant driving experience. Its ergonomic design and luxurious interior make long journeys feel effortless. The seats are well-padded and supportive, ensuring that you arrive at your destination feeling refreshed.
Range
One of the standout features of the ID.4 is its impressive range. With 519 kilometers per charge in perfect conditions, it outperforms many other electric vehicles on the market. This is a significant achievement, especially considering the size of the car. The ID.4 proves that you don’t have to compromise on range when opting for a larger electric vehicle.
Towing Capability
If you are someone who often needs to tow heavy loads, the ID.4 is the perfect companion. It can tow up to one ton of brake load, making it incredibly handy for those with outdoor hobbies or jobs that require hauling equipment. This towing capability sets the ID.4 apart from many other electric vehicles in its class, catering to a wider range of needs and preferences.
User-Friendly Interface
Unlike some cars that constantly bombard you with notifications and alerts, the ID.4 keeps things simple. It doesn’t continuously beep or chime, distracting you from your driving experience. Instead, it assumes that you are a competent and knowledgeable driver who knows what they are doing. This minimalist approach creates a more enjoyable and focused driving environment.
Hand Gesture Controls
To further enhance the driving experience, the ID.4 incorporates hand gesture controls. While they may not always be flawless, they provide a convenient way to navigate through menus without taking your eyes off the road. This innovative feature adds a touch of futuristic technology to the ID.4, making it even more appealing to tech-savvy drivers.
In conclusion, the Volkswagen ID.4 impresses with its comfort, range, towing capability, user-friendly interface, and hand gesture controls. It offers a compelling package for those considering a switch to electric vehicles. With its thoughtful design and advanced features, the ID.4 is a worthy contender in the New Zealand market. Whether it’s the daily commute or a weekend adventure, this car aims to provide a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.
The Groundbreaking Feature of the Volkswagen ID.4
The Volkswagen ID.4 has made waves in the automotive industry with its groundbreaking capabilities. Recently, Volkswagen announced that the ID.4 can now handle vehicle-to-home and vehicle-to-grid functionalities. This means that the car can not only power your home but also contribute to stabilizing the energy grid.
Vehicle-to-Home and Vehicle-to-Grid
Imagine a scenario where there are 10,000 electric cars and 10,000 homes in a particular region. During peak hours, when the grid is under strain from all the household appliances such as heat pumps, microwaves, ovens, and hot water cylinders, power companies can tap into the ID.4s and use their stored electricity to support the grid. This buffering effect helps alleviate strain until the demand reduces back to normal. The ability of the ID.4 to contribute to the stability of the energy grid is truly remarkable.
Exciting Future Technology from Ecotricity
While the ID.4’s vehicle-to-grid capability is impressive, there is even more exciting technology on the horizon. Ecotricity is set to roll out a major development soon, although details remain under wraps. What we do know is that it will be significant and worth looking forward to. Stay tuned by hitting the subscribe button to catch the video when it is released. The demonstration of this technology promises to be fascinating.
Optimizing Energy Efficiency with B Mode
During my journey to New Plymouth, I had the opportunity to put the ID.4’s B mode to good use. B mode converts braking into electricity, further optimizing energy efficiency. As I navigated through the hilly terrains, I didn’t hold back on my driving style, but I also didn’t push the car to its limits. Despite this, I was pleasantly surprised to find that the ID.4 exceeded its official fuel economy statistics.
Impressive Fuel Economy
Even with my enthusiastic driving, the ID.4 showed remarkable fuel economy. I managed to achieve an impressive 16.4 kW hours per 100 kilometers. Considering the challenging terrain and my driving habits, this is a phenomenal result. What’s more, I still have 20% of battery remaining, showcasing the ID.4’s efficiency and range.
In conclusion, the Volkswagen ID.4 has proven itself as a game-changer in the electric vehicle market. Its ability to contribute to the stability of the energy grid through vehicle-to-home and vehicle-to-grid functionalities is truly groundbreaking. Additionally, the ID.4’s B mode and impressive fuel economy make it an efficient and reliable choice for drivers. The future technology developments from Ecotricity only add to the excitement surrounding this innovative car.
Charging Options in New Plymouth
New Plymouth has long been struggling with adequate charging options for electric vehicles. However, the situation seems to have improved with the arrival of the Volkswagen ID.4. Previously, the only available charging point was a 50 KW charger, which often resulted in long queues. But now, there are two 150 KW rapid charges in New Plymouth, bringing relief to the local EV owners.
Charge Net’s Contribution to the Network
Credit goes to Charge Net, the company responsible for installing and maintaining charging infrastructure in New Zealand. They have been actively working towards expanding the charging network across the country. With their dedication, there are now hundreds of rapid charges available throughout New Zealand, making it easier for EV owners to travel and charge their vehicles.
The Efficiency of the Volkswagen ID.4
Now, let’s talk about the efficiency of the Volkswagen ID.4. It surprised the reviewer with its exceptional performance in terms of energy consumption. The reviewer expected the car to have a range of around 8, but to their astonishment, it exceeded their expectations. This level of efficiency is highly impressive, especially considering New Zealand’s diverse terrain.
Performance
In terms of performance, the Volkswagen ID.4 receives a respectable score of six out of ten. While it may not win any drag races, it offers enough power for safe overtaking on the roads. The car’s acceleration is more than sufficient for everyday driving, providing a peppy and enjoyable experience behind the wheel.
Handling
When it comes to handling, the Volkswagen ID.4 earns another six out of ten. The reviewer describes its handling as decent, indicating that it provides a satisfactory driving experience. While it may not offer the sportiest handling in its class, it still delivers a comfortable and stable ride, making it a suitable choice for city and highway driving.
In conclusion, the Volkswagen ID.4 proves to be an efficient and reliable electric vehicle option in New Zealand. With the improved charging infrastructure in New Plymouth and the promise of further expansion by Charge Net, the convenience of owning an electric vehicle is becoming more accessible to Kiwis. With its satisfactory performance and handling, the ID.4 offers an enjoyable driving experience for those who prioritize sustainability without compromising comfort and practicality.
Comfort and Performance
The Volkswagen ID.4 is a spacious family car that offers a comfortable ride. Its large battery, positioned under the car, gives it a low center of gravity, enabling it to handle corners relatively well for a vehicle of its size. However, it truly excels on the highway, providing a smooth and enjoyable driving experience. When it comes to comfort, the ID.4 shines with a score of seven out of 10. Its notable suspension, excellent noise insulation, and comfortable seats make it the perfect car for long journeys, ensuring that your kids will easily fall asleep.
Efficiency and Range
In terms of efficiency, the ID.4 impresses with a score of seven out of 10. Despite my enthusiastic driving, I was pleasantly surprised to achieve a range of 470 kilometers per charge. And if you’re driving sensibly at lower speeds, you can easily achieve 500 kilometers per charge. Its efficiency and range make it a practical option for daily commuting and longer trips.
Gadgetry and Features
The ID.4 offers all the essential features you need, earning it a score of six out of 10 in this category. While it may not have any extravagant extras, it does come with the convenience of being a vehicle-to-home charger. This functionality adds an extra point to its gadgetry score, making it a cool and practical choice.
Value for Money
When it comes to value for money, the ID.4 receives a score of five out of 10. While it may not be the most affordable large electric vehicle on the market, it does offer sufficient value considering its brand reputation and features.
Charging Capabilities
The ID.4’s charging capabilities earn it a score of six out of 10. Although I wish the DC charging was quicker, it can handle 11 kW AC charging, which is commendable. This enables efficient charging at home or at available charging stations.
Style and Design
The vehicle’s style is subjective, but personally, I found the ID.4 to be a visually appealing vehicle. Therefore, I would give it a score of six out of 10 in terms of style. Its sleek and modern design adds to its overall appeal.
Fit for Purpose
With a score of six out of 10, the ID.4 proves to be a reliable and practical family car. While the exact target customer may be slightly uncertain, the ID.4 excels as a dependable vehicle that fulfills the needs of a family.
Overall Score
Unfortunately, the ID.4 falls short in the PSC (Potato Spud Count) metric, receiving a score of only four out of 10. This is primarily due to its lackluster glove box, which provides minimal utility. However, in terms of comfort, performance, efficiency, and overall value, the ID.4 Pro earns a commendable score of 59 out of 100.