- Volkswagen reportedly has major software issues with its next-gen EVs
- Software issues could see Volkswagen fall behind in race to electric future
- Volkswagen invested $5 billion in Rivian to access the startup’s electric architecture
The Volkswagen Group may not be completely out of the woods when it comes to software development, according to reports out of Germany.
The Audi Q6 E-Tron and the redesigned Porsche Macan were both delayed due to software issues related to its EV platform dedicated to PPE. Now Informative reportciting anonymous sources, reported on July 11 that several Volkswagen-branded vehicles will be delayed due to software issues related to a new SSP platform.
The specific models mentioned include a successor to the current ID.4which is supposedly due for release in 2029 at the earliest, or 15 months later than originally planned. An SUV codenamed T-Sport was also mentioned, which is supposedly not due to arrive before 2031.
Manager Magazine reported on July 12 that one reason for such a substantial delay is to help spread out the launch of delayed SSP-based vehicles so that the vehicles don’t get too close to other vehicles that are still on schedule.
Volkswagen ID.2all Concept
Another reason is reportedly to extend the lifespan of the current MEB platform, which the SSP platform is set to replace. Volume production of vehicles based on the MEB platform only began in 2020. VW Group has since launched an updated version known as the MEB+ and is working on a more affordable version known as the MEB Entry. The more affordable version is expected to debut in 2025 in a production version of VW ID.2all Concept.
It is unclear whether there are delays for vehicles from other VW Group brands, although most of the automaker’s brands are expected to use the SSP Platform. First announced in 2021, the platform is being developed to accept battery cells and software systems that will be common across most VW Group models. Porsche is known to be developing a unique version known as SSP Sport Platform. This version will be reserved for high-end brands of the VW Group.
To get around some of its software development issues, VW Group is turning to other automakers for technology, including entire platforms. In China, VW has teamed up with EV startup Xpeng, while Audi is working with SAIC, which markets EVs globally through MG. VW Group also announced in June that it will tap US electric vehicle startup Rivian to jointly develop hardware and software for vehicles, with launch scheduled for the second half of the decade.