Blog

How the Volkswagen Group Makes EVs More Accessible to Drivers A paradigm shift is occurring in the automotive industry, and Volkswagen is one of the major players in the fold. Although the era of electric vehicles began some time ago, VW is intent on proving that they are not an absentee at the EV party, but rather, fashionably late. In 2020, Volkswagen released their very first electric vehicle in the U.S. – the VW ID.4. The Volkswagen electric SUV won the 2021 World Car of the Year Award and was recognized as one of Ward's 10 Best User Experiences. Further, the ID.4 appeared on several editor's choice lists in the SUV and electric vehicle categories. Naturally, VW has big plans to build upon the success of their freshman effort. A Volkswagen electric car and microbus are due out within the next two years. Additionally, the German automaker has made several moves as an organization to promote the expansion of electric vehicles and build out the charging network for consumers. The VW Commitment to Sustainable Driving Volkswagen has made a pledge to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, which aligns with the goals of the Paris Agreement. To achieve this, VW is investing heavily in their lineup of Volkswagen electric cars and SUVs. By committing to a future of electric mobility, the German automaker is leading the way towards a sustainable and electrified future. Volkswagen Electric Cars and SUVs - Shaping the Electric Revolution At the forefront of Volkswagen's electric vehicle lineup is the ID. family of VW vehicles. Using an innovative Modular Electric Drive Matrix (MEB) platform, each member of the ID. lineup features a future-forward design, advanced technology, and an impressive single-charge max driving range. The ID.7 – the first Volkswagen electric car – will likely go on sale sometime in 2024, according to Car and Driver. Currently, it is estimated the ID.7 will have a max single charge driving range of 435 miles. Also joining the ID. family is the 2025 Volkswagen ID.Buzz, which is a futuristic take on the old VW Microbus design from the 1960s. Projected to deliver up to 260 miles on a single charge, the Buzz is firmly poised to make a huge splash in the electric van segment. Of course, drivers can still count on the VW ID.4 to build upon its winning legacy. The 2023 iteration of this Volkswagen electric SUV recently hit the market. Pro models of the ID.4 deliver up to 275 miles on a single charge and are packed with the most technology and advanced features ever installed in a VW. Considering the variety and performance specs of these electric vehicles, the future looks quite bright for the ID. lineup. Expanding the Charging Infrastructure to Meet Consumer Demand To support the widespread adoption of electric vehicles, a robust and accessible charging infrastructure is crucial. Electrify America – Volkswagen's subsidiary – is spearheading the ambitious task of building a comprehensive charging network across the United States. According to TechCrunch, VW is committed to invest more than $2 billion in Electrify America over the next three years. Currently, there are more than 130,000 public charging stations across the U.S. The primary goal for VW is to deploy thousands more, making electric vehicle charging convenient and hassle-free for customers. Collaboration is crucial to achieving a seamless charging experience for electric vehicle owners. To this end, Volkswagen has engaged in partnerships with other industry leaders and charging networks that will provide consistent access to charging stations. Ideally, having a large and reliable charging network will alleviate the “range anxiety” that some drivers have about electric vehicles. By combining an advanced offering of Volkswagen electric cars, SUVs, and vans with an expanded charging network, the VW group is on track to address the major pain point that consumers have about EVs. It’s also worth noting that the 2023 VW ID.4 comes with three free years of unlimited 30-minute DC fast charging sessions at Electrify America charging stations. Where to Learn More About Eco-Friendly Volkswagen Electric Cars and SUVs Drivers who are interested in knowing more about what Volkswagen has in store for their electric vehicles and plans for improving sustainability should check out how they will produce vehicles using recycled materials. Additionally, drivers can check out the entire ID. lineup on the Volkswagen website. It’s a fantastic resource for learning about all the advantages of going electric and how electric vehicles and charging works. For additional questions about Volkswagen electric cars or VW vehicles that use a combustion engine, contact your local VW dealership.

VW to Produce Electric Cars That Use Recycled Materials To meet sustainable development goals set by the United Nations, a comprehensive plan has been put into place to hit net zero emissions by the year 2050. However, the goal is only attainable if the majority of companies in each major sector commits to the necessary changes that need to be implemented. For example, there is a tremendous push being made for energy companies that currently use coal-fired power units to switch over to energy-efficient electric power units. Further, buildings that run on gas must switch over to a more sustainable source of energy, such as electricity or solar. Another big step toward sustainability is advancing how recycled materials are used, and it appears Volkswagen is getting on board with their upcoming lineup of VW electric cars. Not only is the automaker committing to vehicles that run on rechargeable batteries, but it is also rolling out innovative ways to make use of recycled materials in its vehicles. How Electric Cars Address Carbon Dioxide Emissions According to recent data from the United States Environmental Protection Agency, the typical vehicle emits approximately 4.6 metric tons of carbon dioxide annually. Carbon dioxide is predominantly responsible for causing climate change, depleting the ozone, and warming up the atmosphere. Statistics estimate emissions caused by humans have caused a 50% increase in carbon dioxide in the atmosphere in the last two centuries. What does this mean? For one, it means that the time of preventing the problem has long passed. The United States and the rest of the planet are officially in damage control mode. One of the main ways this is being addressed is by steadily rolling out electric vehicles that are more affordable for consumers and sustainable in the long term. They provide the following benefits: A significant savings on gasoline for EV owners. Electric vehicles are significantly more energy efficient than vehicles with internal combustion engines. EVs typically have lower maintenance costs due to the lack of a combustion engine. Electric cars and SUVs do not emit pollutants, such as carbon dioxide and greenhouse gasses. New technology is emerging that will advance recycling car batteries. Future generations of electric vehicles will be able to power a home, similar to a backup generator. Electric vehicles built domestically qualify for a significant tax benefit, which is not offered on new traditional vehicles. How Future Volkswagen Electric Cars Will Take Sustainability Even Further In addition to all the previously mentioned benefits of owning an electric vehicle, VW has plans to push eco-friendliness and sustainability even further with their upcoming lineup of Volkswagen electric SUVs and sedans. As originally introduced with the VW ID.Life concept SUV, Volkswagen will roll out more vehicles that use recycled materials to build out interior and exterior features and components. Here are the main details that are known thus far: Volkswagen has plans to reduce their carbon emissions by 40% by 2030. Various underbody and interior components and pieces will be made from plastic recovered from the ocean and polyethylene terephthalate bottles. Volkswagen has plans to replace chrome with liquid paint resembling chrome. Recycled polyester, ArtVelours Eco, and Seaquel yarn will be used for headliners and seating surfaces. The Volkswagen vehicles currently planned for eco-friendly upgrades include the ID.3, ID.4, ID.5, and the ID.7. Considering the pivot to sustainable materials, this has many folks wondering if the quality of Volkswagen electric SUVs and sedans will be impacted. The concern is that the recycled materials won't hold up as well as the parts and components of their current lineup. However, a spokesperson over at VW assuaged these concerns by addressing them directly. To paraphrase, the recycled materials and components that don't meet the metric of quality that drivers have come to expect will not make it into production models. How to Learn More About VW Electric Cars and SUVs There are a couple of great resources for those who want to learn more about the sustainability initiative from Volkswagen. One resource that visitors can check out is the Our Values and Actions section of the Volkswagen website. This gives a more detailed overview of the automaker’s commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly vehicles. Another great learning resource is the library of electric vehicle articles that Volkswagen hosts on its website. This page has everything from common misconceptions about electric vehicles to cost-saving benefits of owning an EV. It's a great place to visit if you want to be brought up to speed on all the main topics pertaining to VW electric cars. Finally, if you want to see an electric vehicle for yourself, you can pay a visit to your local Volkswagen dealership. There, a friendly team member can introduce you to the award-winning 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 and let you take it for a spin with a test drive. It’s the best way to get first-hand knowledge as to how a Volkswagen electric SUV handles.

How the Volkswagen Gen.Travel Will Serve as an Alternative to Short-Haul Flights Out of all the industries that pertain to travel, airlines statistically rack up some of the most complaints. The main problems pertain to high airfare, late flights, and flights that are outright canceled without an option to rebook. These problems only seem to compound around Thanksgiving and Christmas when there is an influx of travel. Last year during the holidays, some airlines demonstrated just how ill-prepared they were to deal with high volumes of travelers, which resulted in a record number of cancellations and stranded passengers at airports in 2022. This has been an ongoing problem, and yet travelers continue to risk it because airlines are the fastest way to get from point A to point B, especially for long distances. For short distances less than three hours in the air – referred to in the industry as short-haul flights – the option to drive may still be on the table for some folks. Southwest Airlines estimates a flight from Kansas City to St. Louis takes approximately one hour. However, when factoring early arrival for check-in, the boarding process, potential delays, and claiming luggage (if applicable), it will take significantly longer - so much longer, in fact, that perhaps driving takes the same amount of time. Keeping that in mind, the Volkswagen Gen.Travel concept aims to be the alternative to short-haul flights. The following are the top four things you should know about this vehicle and Volkswagen’s continual innovations. #1 – It’s One of the Most Advanced New Volkswagen Cars to Ever Be Assembled Originally unveiled at the Consumer Electronics Show in 2021, the Gen.Travel features a futuristic design that uses the modular electric drive matrix (MEB) platform. It’s the same platform used for the award-winning all-electric VW ID.4. It features two electric motors that yield 302 horsepower and a driving range up to 300 miles on a single charge (during ideal conditions), according to reporting from Autoweek. What really puts the Volkswagen Gen.Travel head and shoulders above other new Volkswagen cars is that it uses Level 5 autonomous driving technology, the most advanced self-driving technology of its kind. #2 – The Volkswagen Gen.Travel is Perfect for Rest or Work The Gen.Travel seats a maximum of four people and features tabletop surfaces that will hold everyone’s laptops with room to spare for snacks and beverages. Additionally, it’s whisper quiet, which means travelers won’t have to talk over an airplane engine or other nearby passengers. For those who want to catch some sleep while en route to their destination, the two front seats of the VW Gen.Travel lean all the way back, making for a comfy travel bed. It’s also worth noting the windows of the Gen.Travel can be dimmed down for a better sleeping environment. For those super long road trips where recharging is necessary, the Gen.Travel will find the nearest charging station and do it on its own. No human intervention is required. #3 – VW is Aiming for the Gen.Travel to Replace Short Haul Flights Circling back to the Kansas City to St. Louis trip, the Volkswagen Gen.Travel can accomplish that in less than four hours – the same as if a human being were behind the wheel. The difference is travelers will now be able to relax within the spacious interior of a hyper-quiet electric vehicle for the duration of the trip. The trip may take slightly longer than total flight and airport waiting times, but it will be less expensive, totally private, and within an environment passengers have control over. No crying babies. No turbulence or cabin pressure. No more trying to sleep while sitting upright. Comfort may very well win over speed for some travelers. That’s what VW is banking on. #4 – The Gen.Travel is Part of the Overall Sustainability Plan for All Volkswagen Vehicles The goal for Volkswagen is to become a carbon neutral company by 2050. In the United States, the first step toward this was the release of the all-electric VW ID.4, which was originally released in 2020. In addition to this electric SUV, VW has plans to release an electric microbus, an electric sedan, and another round of electric SUVs. However, the VW Gen.Travel concept is the only part of their eco-friendly plan to use self-driving cars. It's worth noting the Volkswagen Gen.Travel concept won’t be a reality for some time. Additional testing needs to be done before it’s ready for consumers. It is expected a production-ready model may debut at an auto show in the near future – perhaps as soon as this year or in 2024. Where to Learn More About Eco-Friendly Vehicles from Volkswagen Those who wish to learn more about the lineup of electric vehicles from VW are encouraged to check out the Volkswagen ID.4. Although there are more eco-friendly vehicles on the way, the VW ID.4 is the only one currently available in the United States. The 2023 model of the vehicle was recently released, so those who are interested in seeing it in person are encouraged to reach out to their local Volkswagen dealership.

What to Consider Before Shopping for a VW Electric Car for Sale in the Kansas City Area Last year the country learned a very hard lesson – gas prices can soar without warning. For those who were allowed to work from home during that time, the high gas prices didn’t hit too hard. However, there was a large percentage of Americans who weren’t afforded that luxury, and their daily commute suddenly became more expensive than ever before. In fact, some news stations reported that certain truck and SUV drivers were paying more than $100 per tank. While some drivers took a “grin and bear it” attitude, other vehicle owners started investigating their options. Electric vehicles got a lot of searches from disgruntled drivers who were tired of getting gouged on gasoline. Of course, when making the switch from a traditional to an electric vehicle, drivers are still at the mercy of a finite resource – the battery. For instance, the VW ID.4 Pro model – the all-electric Volkswagen EV – gets up to 275 miles on a single charge. However, the words “up to” indicate that 275 miles is the max range, and not necessarily the standard. To provide some clarity on what to expect when switching over to an EV, the following are the top factors that affect maximum driving range. #1 – Battery Age EV batteries are similar to cell phone batteries in that the older the battery is, the less efficiently you can expect it to work. As EV batteries age, their maximum charge capacity decreases. Experts report that EV batteries lose as much as two percent max charge capacity per year. #2 – Charge Status Another main determinant of range is how much charge is left on the battery. Your charge percentage directly correlates with how much mileage you’ll get out of the vehicle. Keep in mind, some EV batteries are specifically designed to not go above a certain charge percentage for the sake of sustainability. #3 – Road Conditions and Topography EV batteries are designed to recover when rolling downhill and braking. In fact, it’s possible to arrive at the bottom of a long downhill slope with more battery percentage than what you started with. Conversely, a steep uphill drive in challenging conditions, like snow, mud, or ice, will quickly drain your battery. #4 – Cargo Weight Adding cargo weight such as luggage and passengers means that your EV must work harder to carry the extra load. If you’re carrying hundreds of extra pounds in your Volkswagen EV, be prepared for lower battery efficiency. #5 – Wind Driving straight into a strong headwind means that your EV will have to work a little harder to push through it. Comparatively, a tailwind will help your Volkswagen EV conserve battery life. #6 – Tires Having all four tires at the correct PSI is critical when it comes to battery. Make sure that your tires aren’t low on air or else you might not get optimal driving range. #7 – Driving Style If you’re flooring it and pushing your Volkswagen EV to its absolute limit, you’re going to see your battery deplete at a faster rate. You can conserve your battery by sticking to the speed limit and being mindful of how you accelerate during merges or at green lights. #8 - Weather Nothing affects the efficiency of a battery quite like cold weather. Your battery won’t be able to hold a charge as well, which can make cross-country winter road trips a bit of a chore. It’s also worth noting that using the heat to keep the cabin warm further draws battery power. Looking for a Volkswagen EV Near You? Visit Your Local Volkswagen Dealership in Kansas City! Now that you know the main factors of what affects the mileage of an EV, you will be better prepared when planning long trips and your weekly commutes. Although there are several factors that affect an EV’s battery efficiency, what’s important to keep in mind is that most of the items on the list also affect vehicles with combustion engines. Kelley Blue Book estimates that the average person driving 1,058 miles per month spends approximately $56 every four weeks to charge their vehicle at home. Compare that to a driver who needs to fill their tank two or three times to get the same mileage, and you can get an idea of the savings. Finding a new electric vehicle in Lee’s Summit could very well be your path to lower cost of ownership, especially if gas prices significantly increase again. The best way to see if making the switch to a Volkswagen EV is the right move for you is by taking a test drive of the VW ID.4. This future-forward electric vehicle was the winner of the 2021 World Car of the Year Award and was named one of Wards 10 Best User Experiences. To arrange a test drive of the brand-new 2023 edition, simply reach out to the team at VW Lee’s Summit and we’ll set one aside for you. If you decide the ID.4 is the one for you, the VW finance team will be happy to help you secure an auto loan. You can also get a $7,500 credit on the ID.4 if you go with a lease option. Visit VW Lee’s Summit today at 2225 NE Independence Ave to inquire about a Volkswagen EV or traditional vehicle. You can also reach out to us with questions or to set an appointment by calling (816) 841-7253 or via email using our contact form.

Find the Volkswagen ID.4 in Lee’s Summit and Take It for a Test Drive A lot of longtime holdouts are finally coming around when it comes to electric vehicles. No surprise there. In addition to offering generous feature packages and high-quality feel and handling, electric vehicles now offer reasonable cost of ownership and exceptional max driving ranges. It wasn’t that long ago when Volkswagen decided to throw their hat into the EV ring with their all-electric vehicle – the award-winning VW ID.4. To say it was a breakout hit is a massive understatement. In addition to winning the 2021 World Car of the Year Award, the VW ID.4 was also named one of Wards 10 Best User Experiences. So, what can drivers expect from the 2023 edition of this Volkswagen electric SUV for sale? Let’s break down some of the main reasons why the VW ID.4 is poised to continue its winning tradition. 2023 VW ID.4 – Main Specs and Performance One of the main concerns that drivers have when considering making the switch to a VW electric SUV is that it won’t pack the performance of an SUV running on a combustion engine. Let’s put those concerns to rest right now. The 2023 VW ID.4 provides drivers with up to 295 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the highest performing SUVs Volkswagen offers – electric or otherwise. It’s also not afraid of a little hard work. With a towing capacity of up to 2,700 lbs, the VW ID.4 is perfectly capable of hauling light trailers or a personal watercraft. Of course, one of the best parts of owning a VW electric SUV is never having to pay for gas again. In ideal conditions, the VW ID.4 Pro provides drivers with up to 275 miles on a single charge. It’s also worth noting that owners of the new ID.4 will get three years of unlimited 30-minute DC fast-charging sessions at Electrify America charging stations. And, of course, what would an SUV be without adequate storage? The VW ID.4 doesn’t skimp in that department, either. Drivers will get 30.3 cubic feet; however, by folding the back seats down, you can expand your storage capacity to 64.2 cubic feet. 2023 VW ID.4 – Features and Warranty One thing that makes the VW ID.4 distinct is that it’s offered in a whopping eight different trim levels. This allows drivers to get the exact type of EV SUV that they’re looking for that’s within their budget. The higher trim level you select, the more features and performance you’ll get out of your VW ID.4. To help illustrate the difference, here are just some of the features and performance perks included on the ID.4 AWD Pro S Plus model that are not included on the entry level VW ID.4. All-wheel drive Upgraded horsepower Upgraded torque Hands-free easy open/easy close remote power rear liftgate Heated windshield Illuminated VW logos, front light line, and door handle recesses Panoramic fixed-glass roof Power folding, heated, power adjustable side mirrors Trailer hitch Climatronic® Touch three-zone automatic climate control Heated front seats with 12-way power (including 4-way lumbar support) and massage function with position memory V-Tex leatherette seating surfaces Multi-function heated steering wheel No matter which ID.4 trim level you go with, you can count on getting a full suite of safety and intelligent driver assistance features, too. The comprehensive safety package of the VW ID.4 is one of the reasons it was named a 2022 Top Safety Pick+ by the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS). Finally, no VW electric SUV purchase would be complete without America’s leading warranty – Carefree Coverage. It consists of a suite of coverages and services intended to keep your VW ID.4 in stellar condition. It includes: Scheduled Carefree Maintenance - good for 2 years or 20,000 miles Roadside Assistance - good for 3 years or 36,000 miles New Vehicle Limited Warranty - good for 4 years or 50,000 miles myVW Remote Access - good for 5 years The next time you need VW service near Kansas City, Carefree Coverage will come up in your records, which makes the process simple and easy. Looking for a Volkswagen ID.4 in Lee’s Summit? Visit Your Local Dealership! If you’re searching for a VW electric SUV in the Kansas City area, the good news is that VW Lee’s Summit has them in stock and ready to test drive. Simply contact our dealership and let one of our team members know you want to take the VW ID.4 for a spin. With a starting MSRP of just $38,995, there’s never been a better time to consider making the switch to electric. Those that wish to lease may currently qualify for a $7,500 lease credit ( please inquire for details). Visit VW Lee’s Summit today at 2225 NE Independence Ave to test drive the 2023 VW ID.4. You can also reach out to us with questions or to set an appointment by calling (816) 841-7253 or via email using our contact form.

The Hotly Anticipated New Electric Vehicle from Volkswagen Volkswagen impressed the world at the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show with the reveal of the ID.AERO, a fully electric sedan with high performance and even better efficiency. A few years have rolled by, and we’re now about to see the ID.AERO flying off the production lines and making its way to a Volkswagen dealership near you - like Volkswagen Lee’s Summit. In fact, the ID.AERO is one of the most anticipated new electric vehicles from Volkswagen because it has a sleek aerodynamic design that maximizes its efficiency, range, and performance. Who doesn’t want a car capable of all of that? What Kind of Performance Can You Expect from the ID.AERO? Gone are the days when electric vehicles were sluggish and uninteresting to drive. The ID.AERO receives power to all wheels being sent via two electric motors. The ID.AERO is, therefore, all-wheel drive, making for excellent handling and traction. Because it doesn’t include a naturally-aspirated engine, the car can be incredibly light while offering an outstanding driving experience. The ID.AERO also has a battery with a huge capacity with a net energy content of 99 kilowatt hours. This allows the car to run for a long distance between charges. It travels up to 373 miles between plug-ins, which is more than enough for almost any driver. Such a long-lasting battery puts to bed all concerns about running out of juice somewhere along the way. How Is the Styling on the VW ID.AERO? The stylish exterior of the ID.AERO is certainly going to be one of the top reasons people ultimately choose among many VW electric cars for sale. It follows the same design philosophy as the rest of the ID family, and this works really well in a sedan form. The long wheelbase and relatively wide stance give the ID.AERO an aggressive, yet refined look, and it, of course, helps with handling and stability. The design choices, like the touch panel doors, were chosen to minimize drag. In fact, the ID.AERO has a drag coefficient of just 0.23, which helps its efficiency and handling. The 22-inch wheels are cool, too, with a unique turbine design that’s fully integrated into the wheel housing. One of the most striking features is the lighting, which starts with LED matrix headlights that wrap around the body into the wings and side panels. The lighting design gives this electric sedan a bold, dominant look unlike any other car on the road. Volkswagen Keeps Up with Technology and Safety The ID.AERO includes some interesting tech, too, like an augmented reality head-up display. You get advanced driver-assist features like lane assist and adaptive cruise control, and there’s a neat, fully digital instrument cluster. Why Are Electric Vehicles The Future of Driving? Electric vehicles produce zero emissions, which means they do not contribute to air pollution or greenhouse gas emissions. This is especially important as we try to address the challenges of climate change. They’re more energy efficient than gasoline-powered vehicles because they convert more of the energy stored in their batteries into propulsion. This means they can go further on a single charge and may require fewer trips to the gas station. They can also be very quick and responsive, thanks to their instant torque and the ability to always deliver maximum power. And with the price of gas as seemingly unpredictable as it is, reducing your reliance on it could save you quite a bit of money. In short, electric vehicles will soon be America’s preferred option, and you could be an early adopter. As an added bonus, you’ll get to start enjoying all the high-tech features that come with a modern vehicle. Find a VW Electric Car for Sale in Lee’s Summit If you’re excited to see new cars for sale in Kansas City, such as the ID.AERO, alongside our used car range at 2225 NE Independence Avenue, and you’re ready to shop for a new ride, be sure to consider our German-engineered electric vehicles. The ID.AERO is coming soon, and Volkswagen Lee’s Summit will be one of the Volkswagen dealer locations where you can test drive this new modern marvel, so get in touch with us if you plan to reserve a VW electric car for sale. The electric revolution is here, and it’s smart to embrace it as early as possible. Will you?

Checking Out New Volkswagen Cars? Here are the Most Notable Upgrades on the New Models If you’ve been checking out vehicles at new car dealerships near you, then you have probably already seen some of the new 2023 models online and on the showroom floor. Here at VW Lee’s Summit, you can get a new VW for sale in either the 2022 or 2023 model year. When a new model year comes out, that typically means that the previous model year is priced slightly lower. This is usually due to the fact that new model years will come with more features, improved cosmetic features, or even a full redesign. This is something to keep in mind when shopping for new cars for sale in Kansas City. If you happen to be shopping for Volkswagen cars and SUVs, knowing the difference between a 2022 and 2023 model can make all the difference in your purchasing decision. The following will break down the core differences between these two model years. Changes to the Volkswagen ID.4 and its Production The all-electric VW ID.4 was originally released in September of 2020. Since then, it has gone on to be one of the best-selling SUVs from VW along with becoming the winner of the 2021 World Car of the Year Award. The reasons for the success of this new VW for sale is attributed to its future-forward design, comprehensive infotainment and safety feature package, and generous single-charge driving range (up to 275 miles with Pro model). For the forthcoming 2023 release, early reports are suggesting that the VW ID.4 will come out in a new, more affordable base trim level. The new base trim level is reported to cost approximately $35,000, which is about $2,500 less expensive than the current standard edition of the VW ID.4. There’s also some news on the tax credit front. The production of the new model year of the VW ID.4 will be shifted over to Chattanooga, TN. Since the car will be made domestically, this means it qualifies for the $7,500 tax credit per the Inflation Reduction Act. What’s New on Other 2023 Models of Volkswagen Cars? There won’t be much of a price difference between the 2022 and 2023 models of VW vehicles. There also won’t be any major revamps or redesigns of current cars. Keeping that in mind, the following changes are being made to the 2023 models. Perhaps the biggest development on the 2023 slate of Volkswagen cars is with the VW Golf GTI. Next year, it will be available in four distinct trims, including a special 40th anniversary edition to celebrate the hot hatchback’s history and excellence in the automobile world. Notable upgrades include LED headlights and fog lights along with active cornering lights. Meanwhile, the VW Golf R (the speedier iteration of the GTI) will be adding minor cosmetic upgrades along with a 20th anniversary edition release. For the remainder of the 2023 models of Volkswagen cars, the upgrades are mainly feature-related or focused on cosmetic aspects of the vehicle. For instance, the 2023 iteration of the VW Arteon will be released in three different trim levels and will expand its feature offering on the standard trim level. Those features will include LED headlights, fog lights, and heated steering wheel. The VW Jetta and VW Tiguan both recently went through major redesigns, so drivers shouldn’t expect any huge changes. The 2023 model of the Jetta will add remote start to its SE trim and the SE R-Line model of the Tiguan will add 19-inch black alloy wheels. The VW Taos only recently made its debut, so a big redesign won’t be coming anytime soon. However, it will be adding some new features on the 2023 model. They include blind spot monitoring, rear traffic alert, and front assist. Finally, the VW Atlas and VW Atlas Cross Sport remain two of the most popular new cars for sale in Kansas City. For 2023, they will both be adding Digital Cockpit Pro to the Technology models, which is a huge upgrade that drivers will benefit from. Looking for a Volkswagen Car Near You? Visit VW Lee’s Summit! If you’re looking for new cars for sale in Kansas City, the good news is that VW Lee’s Summit carries a wide variety of 2022 and 2023 model year vehicles for you to check out and test drive. The best way to check out a new VW for sale is to swing by our dealership, which is conveniently located at 2225 NE Independence Ave in Lee’s Summit. If you’re not yet in the market for a new Volkswagen car – no problem! We carry a large stock and selection of used cars and certified pre-owned vehicles that have undergone a 100+ point inspection. Additionally, we’re always running great deals on VW products and services in our specials section. For questions or to set up an appointment, feel free to contact us at (816) 841-7253 or you can reach out to us via email using our contact form. For those that are current VW owners in need of routine maintenance or service, please contact the Volkswagen service center to make your appointment.

The Reasons Electric Vehicles are Gaining Market Share and Will Continue to Grow Believe it or not, we’re in the burgeoning age of electric vehicles. Although they don’t dominate the automobile landscape just yet, they have made some significant headway in the overall vehicle market share. It’s also noteworthy that in the first eight months of 2022 alone, 5.7 million electric vehicles were sold. Electric vehicles are no longer an experiment and they’ve been successful for too long in too many different vehicle categories to be considered a fad. Clearly, EVs have an audience and are here to stay. But what exactly is driving this growth? Which audience is buying electric vehicles and to what benefit? Let’s break this down with the top five perks of electric vehicles. Once we go through the list, we will detail where to find a VW electric car for sale and how to test drive it. #1 – Electric Vehicles Have Way Better Range Now When electric vehicles first came out in the 1990s, the mileage range wasn’t too great. In fact, the need to charge the car was a huge inconvenience because many of the EVs back then couldn’t get more than 100 miles on a full battery. That meant that drivers had to be incredibly conscious about their battery level and being around chargers. However, that’s no longer the case today with new electric cars. In fact, the VW ID.4 (Pro model) gets up to 275 miles on a single charge, which is more than enough to get a family through all their commuting, school pick-ups/drop-offs, and normal errands for the week. The expanded mileage has been a huge incentive for drivers finally ready to make the switch over to a VW electric car for sale. #2 – Electric Vehicles Save on Gas Money Over the summer, we saw gas prices rise to record highs. In fact, some drivers were reporting that a full tank of gas cost them more than $100. However, EV drivers made it through that challenging period without being bled dry at the pump. Although charging an electric vehicle isn’t free, it costs a lot less when compared to a tank of gas. When doing the math on total cost of ownership, EVs cost far less to keep running. #3 – Electric Vehicles Cost Less to Maintain There are a lot of basic services you’ll still have to do with an electric vehicle, such as tire rotations and brake pad changes. However, there’s a lot of car parts and components EVs don’t have because they don’t use a combustion engine. This means no oil changes and barely any maintenance to the motor. Electric vehicles are pretty easy to take care of, which is part of their appeal for drivers who aren’t keen to visit maintenance and repair shops. #4 – New EVs Come with a Nice Tax Credit One of the huge perks of Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act bill is the tax credit that EV drivers get on the new purchase of an electric vehicle. For new electric cars and SUVs that are assembled in America, buyers are eligible for up to a $7,500 tax credit. For those wondering how that will apply in terms of VW electric cars for sale, the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 is shifting its production to a plant in Chattanooga, TN. This means it will qualify for the tax credit. #5 – Electric Vehicles Help the Planet One huge benefit of electric vehicles is they can help solve our carbon emissions problem. Considering that toxic pollution driven by fossil fuels is one of our biggest non-communicable diseases, this is welcome news. Electric cars will become a huge part of our net-zero carbon emissions efforts. Looking for a VW Electric Car for Sale? Visit VW Lee’s Summit! If you’re in the market for new electric cars, the good news is that you can order the award-winning VW ID.4 right through our website. This allows you to pick the exact trim level you want along with any optional features you might want to add. If you’re not currently in the market for an electric vehicle, VW Lee’s Summit carries a wide variety of new cars for sale in Kansas City along with used cars and certified pre-owned vehicles. Additionally, you can find more great deals on VW products and services in our specials section. VW Lee’s Summit is conveniently located at 2225 NE Independence Ave in Lee’s Summit. For questions or to set up an appointment, feel free to contact us at (816) 841-7253 or you can reach out to us via email using our contact form.

A Breakdown of Intelligent VW Safety Features That Have Your Back During Dicey Conditions According to the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration, 24 percent of weather-related vehicle crashes occur during winter weather, such as snow, slush, or ice. Per their statistics, this results in more than 116,000 people being injured in winter-related incidents with an additional 1,300 more resulting in fatalities. Winter weather is not to be taken lightly, especially for drivers out on the road here in the Kansas City area. Longtime residents know that Midwestern winters can be extremely intense, resulting in unsafe road conditions, power outages, and several car crashes along 435 and I-35. The dangers of winter weather are definitely scary, but we plan on delivering more than a cautionary tale. We’re here to offer solutions on how you can safely navigate winter weather here in Lee’s Summit, and how a Volkswagen electric vehicle can help you do it. Here are our top six tips for driving your Volkswagen ID.4 – our award-winning all-electric SUV. #1 – Switch Over to Snow/Winter Tires The same way you wouldn’t wear football cleats on the basketball court, you don't want to drive in a snowstorm on summer tires. Winter tires are specially designed to provide grip on surfaces that are covered in snow and ice. They also use a different type of rubber that holds up better under the duress of cold conditions. #2 – Allow for Plenty of Time to Thaw Out One of the huge challenges when driving in winter weather is the lack of visibility. Sleet and snow make it especially difficult for drivers to see the cars around them, which can be a huge liability if one of them suddenly decides to stop or maneuver into your lane. Do yourself a favor and allow for your windshield and windows to completely thaw out before hitting the road. The goal is that you want to give yourself as much visibility as humanly possible. New electric cars from Volkswagen come with a remote start feature that allows you to start your car from the comfort of your own home. #3 – Switch Your Electric Vehicle Over to Snow Mode One of the big advantages of electric vehicles from VW is that they feature snow mode, which is something that VW engineers designed so that drivers can easily tackle winter weather. While engaged in snow mode, your VW will signal the transmission to upshift earlier in the power cycle. This gives your Volkswagen vehicle much better traction in winter conditions like snow, slush, and ice. In the event that any slippage is detected, your Traction Control System (TCS) will kick in and reduce power to the affected tire and redistribute it to the other tires so that you can retain traction. TCS comes in handy during tricky curves and on inclines. #4 – IQ.DRIVE Comes Standard on All Volkswagen Electric Vehicles Even the best of drivers need all the help they can get during extreme winter weather, which is exactly where IQ.DRIVE comes into play. This is a suite of driver assistance features made to help drivers navigate dicey conditions. It includes: Travel Assist Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Active Blind Spot Monitor Rear Traffic Alert Front Assist Emergency Assist Lane Assist #5 – 4Motion All-Wheel Drive is Included in the New VW Electric Car for Sale Having four-wheel drive is nice, but it doesn't hold a candle to 4Motion with Active Control all-wheel drive, which is featured on any VW ID.4 electric vehicle at your local Volkswagen dealer. This advanced feature measures the speed of each individual wheel multiple times per second. If a sensor anticipates slippage or loss of traction, the system will engage and send up to 50 percent of the engine’s power to the electric vehicle’s rear axle, which allows the vehicle to instantly regain traction. #6 – Use Best Practices for Winter Driving There are a lot of winter weather driving best practices you can employ, but about 90% of it is just going slower. Drive slower. Turn slower. Merge slower. Brake sooner and more deliberately. Take however you would normally drive and dial it back some. Even with brand new winter tires and all the bells and whistles a Volkswagen vehicle provides for winter driving, you still need to employ a cautionary driving style to avoid a cold weather calamity. Find Your Perfect Winter Volkswagen Vehicle at VW Clear Lake! Now that you know some of the top tips on safe winter driving along with how a Volkswagen vehicle can help you navigate snowy and icy weather, the next step is to get you behind the wheel of one for a test drive. As the leader of new electric cars for sale in Lee’s Summit, we have the perfect SUV that will enable you to handle even the most challenging of winter conditions. Not yet in the market for an electric vehicle? No problem! As the leading Volkswagen dealer in the KC area, VW Lee’s Summit carries a wide variety of new cars, used cars, and certified pre-owned vehicles that have undergone a 100+ plus point inspection. Additionally, we're always running great deals on VW products and services and our specials section, such as our deflation clearance sale (get $500 off any new vehicle). No matter what your driving style or budget is, our team can help you find the perfect VW for you. The best way to check out our new electric cars or other vehicles is by visiting our dealership here at VW Lee’s Summit, conveniently located at 2225 NE Independence Ave in Lee's Summit, MO. You can also give us a call at (816) 282-0022 or contact us via e-mail using the contact form on our website.

What We Know So Far About This Vehicle and Where to Find New Cars for Sale in Kansas City It's safe to say that by now you've at least heard the name Volkswagen ID.4. To give you a quick refresher, this is our game-changing all-electric SUV that was named the World Car of the Year in 2021. It was also recently awarded one of Wards Best User Experiences. Yielding up to 275 miles on a single charge (Pro model), the Volkswagen ID.4 has convinced many longtime holdouts to finally consider switching over to an electric vehicle. The fact that gas prices are much higher than they were a year ago is also helping things out on that front. The VW ID.4 also provides drivers with up to 295 horsepower and up to 339 lb-ft. of torque, disproving the rumor that electric vehicles lack performance. Considering those factors and how the VW ID.4 delivers future-forward design, an amazing suite of features, and a fun and nimble driving style, there's never been a better time to make the switch over to electric. We also can't forget to mention that this is one of the most affordable new cars for sale in Kansas City, especially in the EV category. With a starting MSRP of $41,230 ( as low as $33,730 after potential federal tax credit), there is finally an affordable way to graduate to an electric vehicle. With the Volkswagen ID.4 being such a big hit, it has many drivers and reviewers wanting to know what's next for the VW name in terms of electric vehicles. Well, it might actually be a vehicle you're already familiar with – the VW Tiguan. Is the VW Tiguan REALLY Going Electric? Or is That Just a Rumor? Reporting on rumored vehicles is interesting business because you never really know for sure if the vehicle will go into production. Throughout its history, VW has had several vehicles that made it to the concept phase only to be canceled later. That’s just part of the business. Some cars make it. Some don’t. Keeping that in mind, we are hearing news and seeing photographic proof regarding an electric version of the VW Tiguan that leads us to believe this vehicle may go into production. Spy photographers have captured images of a VW Tiguan with no tailpipes and a closed-off front grill that is being tested in multiple parts of the world. At the very least, this VW Tiguan may potentially be a hybrid, but is very likely a full-fledged electric. It's also worth noting that conceptualizing, designing, and engineering a brand-new all-electric vehicle is a much more expensive endeavor compared to taking a current vehicle from gas-powered to electric. Putting an all-electric version of the Tiguan into production would be smart from a cost perspective. So, could the VW Tiguan be one of the new cars for sale in Kansas City within the next few years? Considering the success of the last Volkswagen electric car for sale, it certainly seems like it. Upcoming EV concepts such as the VW ID. Buzz, the VW ID. AERO, and the VW ID. LIFE appear to be on their way to a rollout, but we won't know for sure until they are officially slated with a release day by the higher-ups over at the Volkswagen Group. The same can be said for the VW Tiguan concept we've been seeing around. Looking for a Volkswagen Electric Car for Sale? Visit VW Lee’s Summit! Although it may be some time before the EV version of the VW Tiguan hits dealerships, we do carry the game-changing VW ID.4. Drivers wanting to take a test drive of this award-winning SUV are encouraged to visit our dealership, conveniently located at 2225 NE Independence Ave in Lee's Summit, MO. You can also give us a call at (816) 282-0022 or contact us via e-mail using the contact form on our website. The Volkswagen ID.4 is such a popular vehicle that most dealerships are having a hard time keeping them on their lots. In fact, the best way to get one right now is by using our pre-ordering process. This allows drivers to pick the exact trim level they want along with any optional features that they want included. Looking for fuel-powered new cars for sale in Kansas City? We have those, too! VW Lee’s Summit carries a wide variety of SUVs, compacts, and sedans right here on our lot – ready to test drive. We also carry used cars and certified pre-owned vehicles that have undergone a 100+ point inspection. You can also find more great deals on VW products and services and our specials section. Are you a current VW owner in need of routine maintenance, repair, or service? Visit the Volkswagen service center section of our website to make your appointment today.

In the race for electrification, nearly every auto manufacturer has plans for offering fully electric vehicles (EV's) soon. Because of this competition, EV prices are dropping and finally, are starting to be a realistic option for most people as they consider their next car -- even against traditional internal combustion engines. However, when looking forward to the models available in this segment, there is one forthcoming model that is poised to rise above the electric and internal combustion competition: the Volkswagen ID.4 from Volkswagen Lee's Summit. The new EV from VW, the ID.4 is everything you could want in a vehicle, made even better by its electrification—a true EV for the masses. Here are five reasons why you should be excited. Aggressively priced In the compact SUV segment, $30,000 - $40,000 can get you a lot for your money. Heavy hitters like the Toyota Rav4, Honda CR-V, and Mazda CX-5, all fall within this range -- but none of them offer fully electric versions of those models or the amount of advanced standard features and space that the VW ID.4 does. If EV's are what you're cross-shopping, the closest competitors are the Tesla Model Y and the upcoming Ford Mustang Mach-E (it's not a traditional Mustang, but an EV SUV wearing a Mustang badge. Yes you read that right. Heresy!) However, their expensive starting prices, starting at over $49,990 and $42,895 respectively, are out of reach for many Americans. This is where the appeal of the VW ID.4 is strong. The ID.4 is everything those vehicles are and more, albeit at a lower starting price. The ID.4 will start at $39,995 for the Pro trim level, and $43,995 for the 1st Edition, which is already sold out. Both of the stated prices are before the federal tax credit of $7,500. Compared with the higher starting prices of Tesla and Ford, the VW makes a compelling case for "the whole package" and a competitive price—not unlike the original VW Beetle of yesteryear. Enhanced standard features The attractive pricing of the ID.4 is made all the more enticing considering the vast amount of standard features included that are usually only seen on vehicles costing much more than the ID.4. Futuristic interior aside, the ID.4 is replete with features like 82kWh of battery power, heated mirrors, park distance control, rain-sensing windshield wipers, customizable ambient lighting, wireless smartphone charging, a 10" color touchscreen with navigation, Forward Collision Warning, and Autonomous Emergency Braking (Front Assist), Pedestrian Monitoring (included in Front Assist), Blind Spot Monitor (Side Assist), Rear Traffic Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Travel Assist, Lane Assist, Emergency Assist, and much more. There simply are more standard technical, safety, and interior features on the ID.4 than any other vehicle even close to this price. If the latest tech and features are important to you, especially when wrapped in a fully electric package, look no further than the VW ID.4. Maximum interior space In the ID.4, the vehicle's battery is flat, almost like a skateboard that you then put the vehicle's body on. This platform, VW's new MEB platform, is all about keeping a low center of gravity while maximizing interior space. James Tate of The Drive describes the spacious interior as "...functional, and fun, the interior feels airy, particularly considering the CUV's small size. It's easy to get in and sit down, regardless of which door you've opened." While the ID.4 is considered a compact SUV, it feels anything but compact inside. With enough room for four friends, legroom in the rear is a generous 37.6 inches, with cargo space coming in at 64.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down, the ID.4 is capable of much more than its size would suggest. Driving experience So, sure, the ID.4 is affordable, spacious, and rich in standard features, but how does it drive? If reviews from reputable car review institutions like Car and Driver, and The Drive are any indication, the ID.4 is delightful. "In the solid win column, the ID.4 was clearly the best-handling machine in our trio," states Jonathon Ramsey of Car and Driver. "Steering is sharp...damping and body control are excellent...it hasn't sacrificed roominess or utility for looks. Dynamically, the little crossover already delivers, a chunky pup game to get friskier than almost any of its buyers will ever demand." With a range of 250 miles, fun driving dynamics, excellent standard features, and space to spare—not to mention never having to fill up with gas again—the ID.4 is a compelling choice for those looking for an EV that can do it all, at affordable price. Ease of ordering Curious about building one out for yourself? Meet the ID.4 here. You can go to VW Lee's Summit and start building your ID.4 so you get it just the way you want it. VW.com and see what it would look like to get an ID.4 just the way you want it. As mentioned, the 1st Editions are already sold out, but the Pro trim is still available for preorder. If you like what you see, it's best to reserve one ahead of time. It costs $100 and is refundable should you decide to wait. But, with all that the ID.4 offers, why would you? Have questions about the ID.4 or how to order? Contact Volkswagen Lee's Summit today.