Volkswagen reveals Software 3.0 update for electric ID. models

Volkswagen’s all-electric range of ID. models have been given a new software update, intended to improve charging capabilities as well introducing new driver assistance technology. 

When VW launched the ID.3 in 2020, customers had to visit dealerships to receive new software updates. Over-the-air updates arrived last year, however, and now Volkswagen has used this capability to announce its biggest ID. software update yet: Software 3.0.

One of the key new features introduced with the 3.0 software is new “Travel Assist with Swarm Data” capability. This allows for assisted lane changing up to speeds of 56mph. There’s also a new Park Assist function which can identify parking spaces and take full control of the car for low-speed parking manoeuvres. 

There’s also an enhanced version of this technology available, called Park Assist Plus. This can memorise frequent parking spaces. Up to five common spaces can be saved, enabling faster autonomous parking in frequent spots. 

The optional ‘augmented reality head up display’ has been tweaked to include additional information, and new symbols such as roundabouts. On the driver’s screen, the state of charge is now displayed as a percentage next to a battery icon showing the charge level. 

Volkswagen ID. cars equipped with the 77kWh battery can now charge at a maximum rate of 135kw – up from the previous maximum of 125Kw. And there’s a new mode to prolong the life of the battery called ‘Battery Care Mode’ –  setting the charging limit to 80 per cent. 

Volkswagen says the update will be free of charge via an over-the-air update as of Q2, although it has not specified which of these new features will be available on certain ID. models. 

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