Volkswagen is accelerating its electric vehicle (EV) strategy with a significant collaboration with Rivian, marking a new chapter for one of its most iconic models, the Golf. This partnership, valued at $5.8 billion, aims to reshape the future of electric mobility. The two companies have confirmed that the next-generation Golf, expected to debut as the 9th generation in 2029, will be a fully electric model, shifting from its traditional internal combustion engine lineup.
Software-centric platform to debut in 9th generation Golf
Volkswagen CEO Thomas Schäfer announced that the company has decided first to apply the new software-centric vehicle platform to the Golf. This strategy is seen as using the Volkswagen brand’s symbolism to signal the beginning of technological innovation.
“We decided on how to do the software-defined vehicle. It will happen with Rivian, the joint venture, where we put the new electric electronics architecture together,” Schäfer said. And he added, “But we have also decided that we want to start this journey with a more iconic product. So we’ll start with the Golf.” Volkswagen plans to unveil the Golf Mk9 in 2029, signaling its ambition to introduce a mass-produced electric model.
The role of the next-generation Golf that will replace the ID.3
The Golf Mk9 will be built on Volkswagen’s new Scalable System Platform (SSP), significantly enhancing efficiency and flexibility. This model will likely be the successor to the ID.3, which is due for a second facelift in 2026 but will naturally take over when the Golf Mk9 hits the market.
Interestingly, the existing gasoline engine-equipped model, the Golf Mk8, is scheduled to continue production until 2035, and Volkswagen is seeking a gradual transition while maintaining a balance between electric vehicles and internal combustion engine vehicles. This is interpreted as Volkswagen’s strategy to flexibly respond to market conditions without completely giving up on demand for internal combustion engine models.
Project delays due to priority shifts challenge to meet market expectations
Despite the promise of the Golf Mk9, Volkswagen has faced some setbacks. Due to a shift in priorities, the development of its ambitious Trinity EV, initially scheduled for release in 2026, has been delayed until 2032. As a result, the company has decided to halt plans for a new plant and instead focus on modernizing its existing Zwickau facility. This decision, aimed at increasing long-term efficiency, reflects Volkswagen’s efforts to streamline operations amidst economic challenges.
In addition to project delays, Volkswagen is grappling with cost-cutting measures, including closing its Audi Brussels plant in early 2024, which could lead to wage cuts and layoffs. The company is also under pressure from labor unions, which have warned of potential strikes. Nonetheless, Volkswagen remains focused on its electric future, with the Golf Mk9 playing a pivotal role in its strategy to meet consumer expectations and reinforce its position in the EV market.
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