The Future of the Volkswagen Amarok: Will We See an Electrified Version?
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The Volkswagen Amarok has been a hit in Australia, but what about an electrified version? Find out the latest updates on the potential for a plug-in hybrid or battery electric Amarok.
The Volkswagen Amarok has quickly become a top-selling vehicle in Australia, but the brand has not yet confirmed if an electrified version will be produced. Rumours circulated previously, but Volkswagen has remained tight-lipped on the topic. Nathan Johnson, head of marketing and product for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Australia, revealed that they are in talks with the factory about what’s next, but no concrete announcements have been made.
According to Paul Pottinger, general manager for VW Group Australia communications, Volkswagen’s emissions figures are judged as a single brand under the new vehicle emissions standards. This means that the Amarok could benefit from other low-emission models in the brand’s portfolio. Brands with less diversity may face greater challenges in meeting the new regulations.
In 2025, Volkswagen will introduce electric SUVs, including the ID.4 and ID.5, as well as electric people movers and commercial vans. These models are expected to significantly reduce the brand’s fleet CO2 average. On the other hand, rival brands with a high ratio of diesel sales and a low mix of zero- and low-emissions products may struggle with the new regulations.
While an electrified Amarok is still pending, the Ford Ranger platform, which the Amarok is based on, has the potential to support plug-in hybrid and electric powertrains. Volkswagen has been working with Ford on electrifying the platform, and an electric Amarok is expected to launch around 2026. In the meantime, Volkswagen is also considering a plug-in hybrid option using the drivetrain that Ford already has ready for production.
In addition to electrification, Volkswagen is looking to introduce Euro 6-certified drivetrains to the Amarok in the future. These engines are already being used in some European markets due to stricter emissions standards. While Euro 6 diesels with AdBlue injection are still rare in the Australian market, Volkswagen believes that other brands will also move in this direction.
The Amarok has become Volkswagen’s top-selling vehicle in Australia, with significant year-on-year growth. However, it still falls behind its platform mate, the Ford Ranger, in terms of sales. The Aventura and PanAmericana variants are in high demand but supply constrained, while the Style trim level remains the most popular.
So, will we see an Amarok plug-in hybrid or electric vehicle in the future? Only time will tell. However, Volkswagen’s commitment to reducing emissions and exploring electrification options suggests that an electrified Amarok could be on the horizon.
- Volkswagen has not confirmed an electrified version of the Amarok yet
- The brand is exploring future possibilities but has nothing concrete to announce
- Volkswagen’s fleet CO2 average will be greatly reduced with the introduction of electric SUVs
- Rival brands with less diversity in their product portfolios may struggle with new emissions regulations
- The Ford Ranger platform, which the Amarok is based on, can support plug-in hybrid and electric powertrains
While the Volkswagen Amarok’s electrification remains uncertain, the brand’s focus on reducing emissions and exploring electric options indicates a potential for an electrified version in the future. As the industry moves towards greater sustainability, the Amarok may join the ranks of plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles.
