Design & Looks
Andreas Mindt moves from leading Volkswagen’s brand design to overseeing design for the whole VW Group on 1 March. He replaces Michael Mauer after eight years. Mindt has already refreshed VW’s look with the ID Cross concept and the fast‑track ID Polo design, both built around clean, modern lines that signal the brand’s electric future.
Volkswagen Promotes Andreas Mindt to Group Design Chief – All the Details
Image: Volkswagen Promotes Andreas Mindt to Group Design Chief – All the Details – Performance Comparison and Specifications
His past work at Bentley and Audi, especially on the Audi e‑tron SUV, shows he can blend luxury cues with futuristic EV styling. VW’s CEO Oliver Blume says Mindt’s track record makes the cars “clearly recognisable as genuine Volkswagen models again.”
Performance & Mileage
While Mindt’s role is not engineering, his design decisions directly affect how new EVs perform on the road. The ID Cross, for example, uses VW’s MEB platform to deliver up to 300 km (about 186 miles) of range on a single charge. The upcoming ID Polo, sketched in just six weeks, will share the same efficient powertrain, promising a quick 0‑60 km/h sprint in under 9 seconds.
By giving each model a distinct visual identity, Mindt helps buyers instantly recognise the performance class they’re after – sport‑oriented, family‑friendly, or urban‑compact.
Price & Rivals
VW’s refreshed design language also aims to keep prices competitive. The ID Cross is expected to start around €35,000, undercutting rivals like the Tesla Model Y and the Kia EV6 in the same segment. The ID Polo, positioned as an entry‑level EV, could hit the market at roughly €28,000, making it a strong challenger to the Nissan Leaf and Peugeot e‑208.
With Mindt coordinating design across Skoda, Cupra, Audi and the rest of the Group, we can expect a more unified look that still respects each brand’s DNA, helping VW stay ahead in the crowded EV market.
| Vehicle | Engine | Mileage | Price | Top Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ID Cross | Electric | ~300 km (WLTP) | ≈ €35,000 | Bold SUV silhouette, digital cockpit, fast‑charging |
| ID Polo | Electric | ~280 km (WLTP) | ≈ €28,000 | Compact hatchback, six‑week concept, urban agility |
| e‑tron SUV | Electric | ~400 km (WLTP) | ≈ €55,000 | Premium interior, quattro‑style handling, spacious |
FAQ
- When does Andreas Mindt start his new Group role? He begins on 1 March, while keeping his VW brand design duties.
- Which VW EV models did Mindt help shape? The ID Cross, ID Polo concept, and he oversaw design for the Audi e‑tron SUV.
- Will VW’s design become more uniform across brands? Yes, Mindt’s job is to sharpen and coordinate design for all Group brands while preserving each brand’s DNA.
What do you think about Mindt’s promotion? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Source: Read Official News
