Volkswagen to use affordable CMP 21 base for its new EVs in India

Volkswagen is planning to use its affordable CMP 21 base to build new electric vehicles for the Indian market. This platform, originally designed in China, could allow VW to make EVs that compete with popular upcoming models ranging from the Hyundai Creta EV to Tata Harrier EV.

What is CMP 21?

The CMP 21 (China Main Platform) architecture can support four-wheelers with bodies that are between 4.3 and 4.8 meters in length. This means that the German car brand could use it to create electric versions of models like the Volkswagen Taigun and the Skoda Kushaq, both of which are already well-liked in India.

Volkswagen may also develop a 7-seater electric SUV on this platform, which would compete with bigger electric SUVs like the Tata Safari EV, Mahindra XUV.e9 and Mahindra XUV.e8. These SUVs are expected to hit the market next year. Additionally, this platform could be used to create an electric MPV, adding more variety to Volkswagen's lineup.

Affordable electric cars for India

One of the reasons Volkswagen is focusing on this platform is its lower cost. Compared to the company's other platforms, CMP 21 is about 30% cheaper. This is especially important for India, where buyers are price-sensitive. It is looking to make electric cars more affordable to attract Indian customers.

The company had earlier considered another EV project called PEAK EV but scrapped it due to high costs. Instead, Volkswagen has shifted its attention to the CMP 21 platform as it is more cost-effective.

The exact details of the CMP 21 platform are still unknown, but it will likely come with rear-wheel drive as standard and offer an all-wheel-drive option with two motors. The platform is flexible enough to support different battery sizes, from 40kWh to 80kWh. It is also expected to have a wheelbase similar to the ID.4's 2,771mm, providing plenty of cabin space.

Challenges and future plans

While the CMP 21 platform could help Volkswagen bring more EVs to India, there are still challenges. The company needs to invest a lot of money to develop these cars locally, with an estimated cost of around Rs 18,500 crore. Volkswagen is also in talks with Mahindra and Mahindra to share this cost, though the latter is yet to confirm the partnership because it’s focusing on its range of Born Electric SUVs.

However, Volkswagen remains committed to using the CMP 21 platform for its electric cars, even if Mahindra doesn’t join the project. With the upcoming CAFE III regulations, which aim to reduce emissions, launching EVs is crucial for Volkswagen to avoid fines.

The first CMP 21 electric SUV is expected to launch in India by mid-2027, and the company is hopeful that Indian customers will embrace this new range of affordable electric vehicles.

Also, read Tata SUVs BNCAP crash tests analysed

Source: Autocar