VW's Electric T-Roc Will Be Distinct From the ICE Model | Carscoops

      The zero-emission variant of the SUV will be based on the new SSP architecture, which will also support the upcoming next-gen Golf.

      VW has announced that the next-generation Golf and T-Roc EVs will be manufactured at the Wolfsburg facility. Both vehicles will utilize the SSP platform and are expected to be launched by the end of the decade.

      The electric version of the T-Roc differs from the internal combustion engine (ICE) variant, which is set to undergo a new generation in 2025.

      Volkswagen is preparing to launch the new generation of the T-Roc, but the ICE model won't be the only option available. The automaker has confirmed that a fully electric version is under development, although it will be constructed on a completely different platform.

      This information was subtly included in VW's recent teaser for the ID.One, an upcoming entry-level EV priced at €20,000 and scheduled for 2027. With much of the focus on this affordable model, the electric T-Roc has largely gone unnoticed. However, this is the first official acknowledgment from VW regarding its development.

      In a statement about the Wolfsburg plant's future, VW CEO Thomas Schafer stated, "Our aim is to produce the next-generation electric Golf on the new SSP platform there, along with the high-volume electric T-Roc. This will position Wolfsburg as the center for our new all-electric compact class."

      This confirms that the electric T-Roc will be the second model utilizing the Scalable Systems Platform (SSP), following the next-generation Golf. Given that the Golf EV is not expected until 2028, it's reasonable to assume the electric T-Roc will be unveiled before the decade concludes, positioned just below the successor to the ID.4.

      The SSP platform is intended to replace VW’s current MEB architecture across the brand’s electric vehicle lineup, though its introduction has faced delays due to software issues. Once operational, SSP is anticipated to offer ultra-fast charging, Level 4 autonomous driving capabilities, and a new, more efficient production process.

      The electric T-Roc will be entirely distinct from the upcoming compact SUV scheduled for release in the coming months. That model will utilize the established MQB Evo platform, including gasoline, mild-hybrid, and potentially plug-in hybrid powertrain options.

      Leaked images from a few weeks ago indicate that the redesigned T-Roc has slightly increased in size, adopting a more streamlined design and featuring enhanced technology. However, significant design elements are not expected to carry over to the EV version, as by the time it launches in 2028 or later, the gasoline model will be close to a mid-cycle refresh, making a unique design for the electric version likely.

      Despite enhancements over its predecessor, VW is expected to introduce a completely different design for the fully electric T-Roc, aiming to capitalize on its unique platform. The EV is not projected to debut until at least 2028, by which point the gas-powered version will be on the cusp of its mid-cycle update.

      High-Volume EVs

      Daniela Cavallo, Chairwoman of the General and Group Works Council of Volkswagen AG, confirmed that the SSP platform will be implemented across the VW Group, and noted that technical development will take place in Wolfsburg. She stated that these EV-specific foundations will be "just as critical" to VW's future success as the platform strategy for its current internal combustion models.

      Cavallo also highlighted the importance of the Golf and T-Roc in terms of production volume: "At our main plant, we will be engaging not only in development but also significant production activities over the next few years. The future electric flagship models – the Golf and T-Roc produced in Wolfsburg – currently represent a volume exceeding 500,000 units annually."

      Importantly, VW has announced plans to relocate Golf production to Mexico in 2027, along with a reduction of 35,000 jobs throughout Germany and a cut in domestic production capacity. It remains to be seen whether the new electric vehicle lineup will be sufficient to keep the Wolfsburg workforce engaged for the coming years.