Volkswagen introduces the ID. Polo, an electric vehicle priced under $30,000 that combines affordability with retro appeal.

      The legendary Polo is going electric, offering a 454 km range and an unexpectedly affordable starting price.

      Volkswagen has officially unveiled the ID. Polo, marking a significant moment. With over 20 million units sold, the Polo has long been one of VW’s most cherished and iconic models, and it is now transitioning to full electric. Developed in Wolfsburg, the ID. Polo has a starting price of 24,995 euros in Germany, which is a sensible entry cost for an electric vehicle.

      In terms of core specifications, it comes with three power options: 85 kW, 99 kW, and 155 kW. The first two variants feature a 37 kWh battery, providing a range of up to 329 km. The higher-end 155 kW variant increases the battery size to 52 kWh, allowing for a range of up to 454 km on a single charge.

      All three versions support DC fast charging, enabling the battery to go from 10% to 80% in approximately 23 to 24 minutes.

      Is the design of the ID. Polo a new beginning or simply an evolution of the classic model?

      The new ID. Polo incorporates Volkswagen's “Pure Positive design language,” showcasing sleek proportions, a C-pillar reminiscent of the original Golf, and a rear section that exudes premium quality. It is immediately identifiable as a Polo, albeit a more sophisticated and contemporary iteration.

      The car measures 4,053 mm in length and efficiently maximizes usable space beyond what one might anticipate. The trunk capacity has increased by 25%, from 351 liters to 441 liters, and expands to 1,240 liters with the rear seats folded down.

      Inside, there is a 10-inch digital display positioned in front of the driver along with a 13-inch central touchscreen infotainment system. An optional retro display mode emulating the original Golf's instrumentation is a delightful feature.

      What additional features are available?

      All trims come equipped with LED headlights, lane assist, and DC fast charging as standard. The mid-range Life trim introduces adaptive cruise control, a rearview camera, CarPlay, Android Auto, and wireless phone charging.

      The top-tier Style trim includes LED matrix headlights, heated seats, seat massage functionality, a dual-zone automatic air conditioning system, and more. Additionally, a vehicle-to-load feature allows users to utilize the ID. Polo as a power source for devices like e-bikes using a 230 V socket located inside the cabin.

      Pre-sales in Germany commence today, starting at 33,795 euros for the 155 kW version, while the 24,995 euro base variant is expected to launch in the summer.

      Rachit is an experienced tech journalist with more than seven years of expertise in the consumer technology field.

      Gemini is transforming the in-car experience — here’s how

      There’s a unique kind of annoyance associated with conversing with your car. You articulate something completely ordinary, yet it responds as if it's hearing you for the first time. “I didn’t get that.” “Please try again.” Or worse, it confidently retrieves unrelated information. For years, in-car voice assistants have existed in that frustrating space — just useful enough to keep you attempting to engage with them.

      This might finally be changing. Google is introducing Gemini to vehicles equipped with Google built-in, gradually phasing out Google Assistant for a system designed to comprehend natural, everyday language. If the distinction between the two was noticeable on your phone, it feels even more significant in a car — where functionality is essential.

      Recently, Musk confirmed that Tesla's third-generation vehicles cannot achieve Full Self-Driving (FSD) through software alone. Shortly afterward, approximately 3,000 Hardware 3 (HW3) owners across 29 European countries initiated a collective legal action regarding about €6.5 million already spent for FSD purchases.

      In response, Tesla (via a post on X) pledged to provide FSD V14 Lite to HW3 vehicles in international markets. However, the software won’t be available until after the U.S. rollout is complete, and there are many uncertainties that may not sit well with buyers.

      GM’s cars have just become significantly smarter with the Google Gemini upgrade.

      Google Gemini is being introduced to GM vehicles and it offers much more than just navigation assistance.

      GM is updating millions of vehicles with Google Gemini, which is more significant than it might appear. The rollout is for 2022 and newer models of Cadillac, Chevrolet, Buick, and GMC equipped with Google built-in, impacting around 4 million vehicles in the U.S.

      This operation stands among the largest Gemini deployments in automotive history. If you own one of these vehicles, be on the lookout for a notification on your infotainment display when the update is available.