Despite its rising popularity in Australia, the Volkswagen Amarok’s electrification journey remains shrouded in uncertainty, with the brand yet to confirm any plans for plug-in hybrid or battery-electric versions. While Volkswagen’s commercial vehicle partner Ford has committed to launching a Ranger Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) in Australia by 2025, there’s been no similar announcement regarding the Amarok, despite previous speculations.
Nathan Johnson, head of marketing and product for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Australia, remained tight-lipped on the subject, stating, “We don’t have anything to say on that particular topic.”
Similarly, Paul Pottinger, general manager for VW Group Australia communications, emphasized that Volkswagen’s emissions performance under the upcoming New Vehicle Emissions Standards (NVES) might be bolstered by its broader portfolio, thus minimizing the urgency for immediate electrification of the Amarok.
Volkswagen’s electrification efforts are primarily focused on its ID.4 and ID.5 electric SUVs, along with the ID. Buzz range of electric people movers and commercial vans. These models are expected to significantly contribute to reducing the brand’s fleet CO2 average once the NVES regulations take effect. While the concept of an electrified Amarok has been previously discussed, no concrete plans have been confirmed.
Speculation suggests that Volkswagen has been looking into the feasibility of an electric off-roader based on the Ford Ranger and Amarok’s T6 platform, which supports both plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and electric (EV) powertrains.
However, challenges remain, particularly concerning the battery size required to maintain towing capability and range for an electric off-roader. Volkswagen has reportedly been advised that such a model would need at least a 110kWh battery.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding electrification, Volkswagen is expected to transition to cleaner Euro 6-certified drivetrains for the Amarok in the future. Mr. Johnson mentioned that Euro 6 engines would eventually become available, citing their adoption in European markets due to stringent emissions standards.
Currently, the Amarok stands as Volkswagen’s top-selling vehicle in Australia, with significant year-on-year growth. However, it still lags behind its Ford Ranger counterpart, especially in the 4×4 segment. Supply constraints persist for in-demand variants like the Aventura and Panamericana, while the Style trim remains the most popular choice among buyers.
