Volkswagen has been using South Africa to test its forthcoming ID electric car range. The all-new Volkswagen ID is scheduled to be fully revealed by the end of 2019, with a launch in 2020.

From what we know so far, the Volkswagen ID will be a similar size to that of a Volkswagen Golf. Under the skin, there's an all-new platform too. Called MEB (Modular Electric Matrix), it will also spawn various other electric vehicles in Volkswagen's portfolio. Think of it as MQB, but purely for electric vehicles.

While final numbers are not yet confirmed, speculation is rife that this platform is conducive to potential ranges between 330 km to 550 km, which should allay fears of range anxiety. From what we understand, the Volkswagen ID will feature a rear-mounted electric motor which will power the rear wheels, meaning it should be entertaining topilot.

With car industry upstart Tesla claiming even more market expansion in 2019/2020, the big established car makers have started to respond. We should see the Volkswagen ID being fully revealed before the end of 2019, with a market launch in 2020. Volkswagen is claiming it will be priced competitively and should cost around the same price as a diesel Golf.

These photos show the Volkswagen ID undergoing prototype drives in the Gordon's Bay area, in the Western Cape.

Volkswagen ID Video

What it's like to drive?