Skip to main content

3 cool things that are coming with the VW ID.4 software update

Volkswagen of America is going to start an update program in the US for ID.4 software on 2021 models and certain 2022 models.

Volkswagen-EV-deliveries-September-2
Volkswagen ID.4 Source: VW

VW. ID.4 software update

This first update is a prerequisite for future features, and those ID.4 owners who will be getting the update will be contacted by VW once they’re available.

Owners of 2021 ID.4s will be asked to book in-person appointments with their local dealer for the software update and replacement of the car’s 12-volt battery. Some owners of 2022 ID.4s will also be notified about software updates.

The latest ID.4 software update will make it easier for drivers to find Electrify America EV charging stations while they’re on the move. This will be a welcome feature, as VW customers who buy ID.4s get three years of free DC fast charging on the Electrify America network.

The software upgrade adds a charge routing feature to the ID.4’s navigation system, and that will allow drivers to search specifically for Electrify America stations, as well as for specific charging speed levels at any station.

Another new feature that the software update will bring is called Auto Hold. Once drivers bring the ID.4 to a complete stop, they can release the brake pedal and Auto Hold stops the car from rolling until they press the accelerator pedal. If the driver doesn’t like this feature, they can deactivate it.

The ID.Cockpit digital display is also going to be able to show more information after the software upgrade. A state of charge percentage will join the existing battery icon and range on in the display.

The current drive mode will also be shown on AWD models, indicating whether the car is set to Eco, Comfort, Sport, Custom, or Traction.

The ID.Cockpit display will also show a trip computer adding current driving data and ambient temperature after the upgrade.

Electrek’s Take

I now drive a US-made 2023 VW ID.4, so my car already has these features, and they’re great. I’m glad to see VW roll out these upgrades to older ID.4 models, as I now know that this will happen for my car in a couple years.

It’s a shame that the big automakers haven’t yet figured out how to do remote software updates like Tesla does. Remote updates are one of the best things about driving a Tesla, and other automakers would be more competitive if they did the same. 

Top comment by Timothy Williamson

Liked by 6 people

Wait, VW still hasn't figured out over-the-air updates?? (I assumed they had at this point). I'm actually pretty shocked (no sarcasm).

View all comments

Also, there’s no sign yet of Plug & Charge. VW CEO Herbert Diess said in February in an AMA session on Reddit that Plug & Charge would surface by summer.

Read more: I’m driving my 2023 VW ID.4 Pro S in the snow – Here’s how it’s going

Photo: VW


UnderstandSolar is a free service that links you to top-rated solar installers in your region for personalized solar estimates. Tesla now offers price matching, so it’s important to shop for the best quotes. Click here to learn more and get your quotes. — *ad

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

Stay up to date with the latest content by subscribing to Electrek on Google News. You’re reading Electrek— experts who break news about Tesla, electric vehicles, and green energy, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow Electrek on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Don’t know where to start? Check out our YouTube channel for the latest reviews.

Comments

Author

Avatar for Michelle Lewis Michelle Lewis

Michelle Lewis is a writer and editor on Electrek and an editor on DroneDJ, 9to5Mac, and 9to5Google. She lives in White River Junction, Vermont. She has previously worked for Fast Company, the Guardian, News Deeply, Time, and others. Message Michelle on Twitter or at michelle@9to5mac.com. Check out her personal blog.