Volkswagen Teases ID. 2 R With In-Wheel Motors - CleanTechnica

Volkswagen is developing a high-performance version of its upcoming ID. 2 GTI electric hatchback, called the ID. 2 R, which will feature a powerful 395-horsepower powertrain. While the standard ID. 2 GTI will have a 285 hp front-wheel-drive motor, the ID. 2 R will add two in-wheel electric motors—one on each rear wheel—sourced from a specialist in the Balkans. This setup not only boosts acceleration but also enables advanced torque vectoring for precise cornering control, enhancing driving dynamics significantly. The use of in-wheel motors presents notable engineering advantages, such as simplified packaging without compromising interior space, since the motors are integrated directly into the wheels. This approach could be applied to Volkswagen’s MEB Small platform and potentially extended to the MEB Plus and upcoming SSP platforms. However, challenges remain, particularly the increase in unsprung weight, which can negatively affect ride quality and handling by requiring stronger suspension components. Despite these