The VW Golf 8 is expected to be the last version of the car to feature an internal combustion engine, with the brand moving to produce more electric models. The Golf name will continue to be seen on roads with the brand planning an electric version, although this is not expected until later this decade.
After its introduction in 1974, the Golf became an instant success, with the model replacing the VW Beetle as the brand’s marquee.
It is Volkswagen’s best-selling model and has sold more than 35 million models in its nearly 50-year history.
Speaking about the decision to end the development of the Golf, Thomas Schaefer, COO of Volkswagen, said: “With that, the car is set until the end of the decade. Then we have to see how this segment develops.
“If the world develops completely differently than expected by 2026 or 2027, we could develop a totally new vehicle – but I don’t think it will. So far that is not expected,” he told Automobilwoche.
Volkswagen is planning to have 50 percent of its total sales in 2030 be electric. This includes an 80 percent target in Europe and 55 percent in North America.
In the UK, the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles will be outlawed from 2030, with hybrids seeing a similar ban from 2035.
In the European Union, the sale of new ICE vehicles will be prohibited in 2035, with carmakers scrambling to ensure they can meet such goals.
Sam Sheehan, motoring expert at cinch, said this is the latest manufacturer to modernise their fleet with an electric future around the corner.
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He said: “Manufacturers are well aware of the regulations on petrol and diesel cars coming down the track, but as they modernise their range, brands are wanting to retain the affinity that drivers have with these iconic cars.
“So, this doesn’t mean the death of iconic models – VW are planning to keep the Golf name for a future electric model. It’s a reinvention.”
Last October, Ford announced it would be ending production of the iconic Fiesta model in 2023, after almost 50 years of it being on the production line.
It is Britain’s most-owned car, one of the most desirable models for all drivers and is often seen as a suitable option for new motorists.
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The company said the move was being taken so it could focus on electric vehicles, as well as meeting the strong demand for its range of SUVs.
Its consistency, as well as cost efficiency, compact size and smooth driving, led to it being one of the most beloved cars around the world.
In the weeks after the announcement was made, cinch saw a 37 percent increase in searches for “Ford Fiesta”.
Mr Sheehan anticipates that the website will see a further spike in demand for the Volkswagen Golf in the coming days and weeks.
He added: “We’ve seen it is not all about retaining existing models, there is also an interesting move towards ‘rebirthing’ of other cars.
“Ford have reinvented the ICE Mustang into the electric Mustang Mach-E, and are also rumoured to be looking at bringing back the iconic Ford Capri as an electric car.
“While the future will bring brand new models fit for the electric era, there will also be some hints to the past that drivers have so much affection for.”
Last year, Volkswagen sold 330,000 electric vehicles, up almost a quarter compared to 2021, with plans for more EVs to be introduced in the coming years.
By 2025, the company plans to sell up to three million EVs every year, based on current market trends.
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