Introduction
Volkswagen is making a significant shift towards electric vehicles, with plans to release the next-generation fully electric Golf closer to the end of the decade. However, this does not necessarily mean the end for today’s combustion engine-powered Golf. Kai Grünitz, the head of the company’s technical development division, believes that the current Mk8 Golf could remain in production until as late as 2035. In this article, we will explore the potential longevity of the current Golf model amidst the shift towards electric vehicles and changing regulations in the European Union.
Older Underpinnings
The current Golf Mk8, despite being released in late 2019, is built on the MQB platform that dates back to the Mk7 launched in 2012. This is not a new phenomenon for the Golf, as past generations have seen similar extended life cycles. The Mk6, for example, was essentially a facelift of the previous generation and remained in production until 2016. Grünitz believes that the current Golf represents “MQB perfection” and sees no need to develop a new platform. Despite initial software issues, which have since been resolved, the future of the Mk8 Golf looks promising.
Potential Retirement
While Grünitz suggests that the Mk8 Golf could be in production until 2035, there are potential factors that may lead to its retirement before then. For example, VW Group brand Porsche recently discontinued certain models in the EU due to cybersecurity legislation that would have required costly modifications. If future regulations prove to be prohibitively expensive for the Golf, VW may decide to retire the model earlier than anticipated. However, even with a potential 15-year life cycle, the Mk8 Golf would not be the longest-running model in the Golf lineup.
Historical Context
The original Volkswagen Golf, launched in 1974, had a successor in the Mk2 in the 1980s. However, VW continued to produce an Mk1-based Citi Golf from 1984 until 2009, giving it a remarkable 25-year run. When considering the original Golf model as well, this extends to 35 years of production. This historical context demonstrates the potential longevity of the Golf models and the adaptability of Volkswagen in evolving automotive landscapes.
Future Possibilities
As the automotive industry shifts towards electric vehicles and new regulations, the future of the Golf lineup remains uncertain. Volkswagen’s commitment to electrification raises questions about the continued production of combustion engine vehicles. However, the potential for extended life cycles and adaptability to changing regulations suggest that the Golf may continue to thrive in the evolving market. Keeping an eye on future developments and regulatory changes will be crucial in determining the fate of the iconic Golf model.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the current Volkswagen Golf Mk8 faces a potential lifespan extending until 2035, according to the company’s technical development division head, Kai Grünitz. Despite the shift towards electric vehicles and changing regulations, the Golf has a history of longevity and adaptability. Whether it will continue to thrive in the evolving automotive landscape remains to be seen, but the potential for an extended life cycle suggests that the iconic model may have a future beyond current predictions. As the industry continues to evolve, Volkswagen’s approach to addressing new regulations and technologies will be crucial in determining the future of the Golf lineup.