[ACCI-CAVIE] Volkswagen has made a significant shift in its production strategy, discontinuing the production of the Polo compact car in Europe after four decades.

To accommodate its transition to electric vehicles, the company’s Pamplona plant in Spain will focus on the production of upcoming electric compact SUVs. As a result, the Polo will now be sourced from its South African plant in Kariega.

While this marks a departure from traditional production methods, it aligns with Volkswagen’s broader strategy to electrify its lineup. The South African plant is already equipped to produce the Polo for markets outside of Europe.

In addition to the Polo, the Kariega plant will also produce the sixth-generation Polo five-door and the Virtus, a notchback variant of the Polo VI, for markets in Brazil and India.

The freed-up capacity in Pamplona will be utilized to produce two small electric SUVs: the SUV version of the VW ID.2 (likely to be called the ID.2 X) and a Skoda model known as the Epiq. Both models are expected to be based on an adapted version of the MEB electric platform and priced around €25,000.

While the shift towards electric vehicles is a major step for Volkswagen, it also signifies the end of an era for the iconic Polo. However, by adapting to changing market demands and investing in electric vehicle technology, the company aims to secure its future in the automotive industry.

The editorial staff (with electrive.com)