SEAT has announced it is postponing production of their ultra-affordable EV as the Spanish car manufacturer continues to focus on an iconic model about to turn 30 years old. The news comes after Volkswagen, who own a range of car companies including SEAT, unveil the ID.1 concept, which they hope to put into production for a starting price of around €20,000 (£16,500).
However, speaking to Auto Express, Werner Tietz, Vice President of Research and Development for SEAT, noted that the company is waiting for EV technology to come down in price. He explained: “We are planning on running the combustion cars on sale until the end of the decade and therefore the time for a decision about electric cars is in the future. Our ambition is to find the technical solution which makes it viable for SEAT to enter the electric market, because with the price point of the car the technology must see a step change in cost.”
Previously, SEAT announced that they were developing an ultra-affordable electric model based on Volkswagen Group’s entry-level MEB platform, which would also have a starting price of around £17,000.
However, the company has recently stated that they do not have the capacity to develop and build the model alongside their current range of petrol and hybrid-powered hatchbacks and SUVs.
As a result, the Spanish brand noted that they will continue to develop famous current models, such as the Ateca crossover and Ibiza supermini – both of which helped sales of SEATs increase by 14.6 percent in the UK during 2024.
Nevertheless, Wayne Griffiths, CEO of SEAT and Cupra, did not dismiss the idea of an electric model made by the brand in the future – calling on European Governments to offer more support for manufacturers.
He added: “At this pace the automotive industry in Europe is at risk, but we need to see it as an opportunity to drive growth.
“Electrification is inevitable, and we have been absolutely clear – it’s not a goal, it is the goal, and we need to see the same level of commitment from leaders across Europe. If we can seize the opportunity, there is no reason why they can’t do the same.”
Whilst new car buyers are unlikely to see a fully-electric SEAT in the showrooms any time soon, their premium sub-brand Cupra is set to launch a hot hatchback EV.
Called the Raval, Cupra’s entry-level model will offer particularly striking looks, including a sharp crease spanning from the front wheel arches to the C-pillar, and a range of up to 273 miles per charge.
Prices are set to start from around £25,000, with buyers happy to pay slightly more able to get behind the wheel of the sporty VS variant, which will sprint from 0-62mph in under seven seconds.