Internally, the SUV’s boxy shape is called the “Ruggdzz.”
Since late December 2018, reports of a Volkswagen SUV boxed have been floating around the Internet. A uto Bilder was first to report on plans for an electric T-Rug. The rumor mill suggests that the model is still in the plans as part of the “ID” family of EVs. Fast forward to February 2020. Autocar states that the electric vehicle is called the “Ruggdzz” within VW. This is a derivative of “rugged” and is scheduled for release in 2023.
The British magazine states that the angular electric SUV was still in the preliminary development phase. This means that a lot can change between now, and the confirmed market launch. According to the report, VW has two versions of Ruggdzz. One version is 4.6 meters (181.1 inches) long and includes five seats. The stretched version would have room for a third. This version would be marketed to China, as well as North America.
Autocar has said that those who had early access to the vehicle’s design describe it as having a “distinctly boxesy profile with a full width grille including rectangular headlights, upright windscreen and sheer sides.” It also mentions that it will have a special Cpillar with a transparent glass panel. This would allow the vehicle’s greenhouse to stand out among other ID-badged SUVs and crossovers.
The new Ruggdzz will be riding on the MEB platform, which was first introduced last year with the ID.3electric hatch. It is expected that the all-wheel-drive experience will be offered by the dual electric motors for each axle. The electric SUV could come in a variety of variants, including an “extreme” model with roof-mounted lights and a large ground clearance.
SEAT and Skoda might offer their own versions of the Ruggdzz. The Jetta brand has recently been established in China. It might also offer a localized version.