The new era of urban mobility: Volkswagen ID. Polo and Cupra Raval enter production
The Volkswagen Group is stepping up the gas pedal in the affordable electric car segment. The SEAT plant in Martorell, Spain, has officially started production for two of the German concern's most important models: the Volkswagen ID. Polo and the Cupra Raval. Developed on a common technical platform, the two subcompacts promise to democratize zero-emission propulsion in Europe, offering top technologies at a starting price of around 25,000 euros.
One platform, two distinct personalities
The industrial project, directly coordinated by the SEAT & CUPRA division on behalf of the consortium, represents a massive investment of over 3 billion euros in the modernization of facilities in the Iberian Peninsula. Both models are based on the new modular architecture MEB+ (or MEB Entry), designed specifically for compact front-wheel drive electric vehicles. This strategic synergy has allowed the reduction of complexity and production costs, while ensuring a clear delineation of the character of each brand.
While the Volkswagen ID. Polo relies on clean, calm aesthetics and ergonomics focused on everyday practicality (intended as a perfect spiritual successor for traditional Polo or Golf customers who are taking the step towards sustainability), the Cupra Raval assumes the role of an electric “hot-hatch”. With an aggressive exterior design, futuristic interior details made using 3D knitting technology and a dynamic stance, the Raval addresses a younger audience, eager for performance and aesthetic exclusivity.
Technical specifications: From urban efficiency to pure dynamics
The German group offers a wide range of options on the front axle, optimizing both the energy storage capacity and the resources of the electric motors:
Battery and autonomy options:
- 37 kWh battery (LFP technology): Configuration optimized for daily urban commuting, providing a range of approximately 300 - 320 km in the WLTP cycle.
- 52 kWh battery (NMC technology): The extended variant, capable of delivering a range of over 445 - 450 kilometers on a single charge.
Engine levels:
- The 115 / 116 HP and 135 HP engines emphasize maximum efficiency in the city.
- The higher variants of 211 HP (Endurance) and 226 HP (top of the range Cupra VZ) transform small city cars into true urban rockets, the VZ version reaching 100 km/h in just 6.8 seconds.
Both cars benefit from a direct current (DC) fast charging system with powers of up to 105 kW, considerably shortening the time spent at charging stations during longer journeys.
Availability and prices in Romania
Both electric models are confirmed for the Romanian market. The Cupra Raval is already opening local order lists with a clear equipment structure, while Volkswagen will introduce the basic version of the ID. Polo to the official dealer network in the second half of this year.
| Model / Version | Power (hp) | Battery (kWh) | WLTP Range | Starting Price (incl. VAT) |
| Volkswagen ID. Polo (Base)* | 116 hp | 37 kWh | ~300 km | 25,300 € |
| Cupra Raval (Standard) | 115 hp | 37 kWh | 311 km | 25,985 € |
| Cupra Raval Plus | 135 hp | 37 kWh | 323 km | 29,167 € |
| Cupra Raval Endurance | 211 hp | 52 kWh | 445 km | 35,252 € |
| Cupra Raval VZ | 226 hp | 52 kWh | 386 km | 37,038 € |
The entry-level version of the Volkswagen ID. Polo will be available for active configuration in Romania towards the end of this year, reinforcing the brand's promise for an extremely competitive price.
Beyond the attractive price, the factory-included equipment for the basic levels is surprisingly comprehensive. Even in the standard configuration of under 26,000 euros, the Cupra Raval offers 17-inch wheels, full LED ECO headlights, a massive 12.9-inch central screen for the multimedia system and a generous arsenal of active safety (adaptive cruise control, Front Assist with automatic braking function, Front Cross Traffic and fatigue detector).
With this new duo assembled in Martorell, the German concern offers a solid response to market rivals (such as the Renault 5 E-Tech or Alpine A290), demonstrating that the European transition to electrification can be achieved without sacrificing performance, cutting-edge technology or financial accessibility.