Volkswagen ID.R '19

aspiration

EV (Electric Vehicle)

Group

Gr.X

Displacement

- cc

DriveTrain

4WD

Height

1,200 mm

Length

5,200 mm

Weight

1,030 kg

Width

2,350 mm

Max Power

670 BHP / - rpm

Max Torque

- kgfm / - rpm

Performance Point

PP 855.36

Manufacturer

Volkswagen

The Revolutionary Volkswagen ID.R '19: Redefining Electric Racing

The Volkswagen ID.R '19 stands as a landmark in both electric vehicle (EV) technology and motorsport. Designed from the ground up as a high-performance, all-electric prototype, the ID.R was Volkswagen's bold statement in its transition toward electric mobility. Unveiled in 2018 and fielded in competitions throughout 2019, the ID.R was not created for mass-market sales but for breaking records and showcasing Volkswagen's engineering prowess.

Powered by two electric motors producing a combined 671 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of instant torque, the ID.R is a featherweight by racing standards, tipping the scales at just under 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs) including the driver. This potent combination enabled blistering acceleration, launching the car from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in a mere 2.25 seconds—outpacing even Formula 1 machines off the line. Advanced aerodynamics and an innovative battery system further enhanced its unprecedented performance.

The ID.R '19 quickly earned legendary status with a series of stunning accomplishments. Most notably, it shattered the overall record at Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in 2018, scaling the 12.42-mile course in just 7 minutes, 57.148 seconds—the first car to conquer the infamous climb in under eight minutes. In 2019, Volkswagen continued its onslaught by setting the fastest electric car lap at the Nürburgring Nordschleife (6:05.336), demolishing the previous record by over 40 seconds. The ID.R also set a new all-time record at the Goodwood Festival of Speed hillclimb, clocking an astonishing 39.90 seconds.

While not a production car meant for public sale, the Volkswagen ID.R '19 proved pivotal in cementing the viability and appeal of electric performance machinery. Its triumphs inspired the broader ID electric sub-brand and contributed to Volkswagen's move toward mainstream electric vehicles, including models like the ID.3 and ID.4. The ID.R’s record-breaking runs and technological innovations continue to influence the design and ambition of electric race cars and high-performance EVs worldwide.