Volkswagen (VW) is undergoing significant changes. Not only is the brand preparing to launch a series of new electric vehicles (EVs) like the ID. Cross and the all-electric Polo, but it is also reevaluating its design philosophy to broaden its appeal. This means returning to features more familiar to buyers, including something as simple as traditional door handles instead of the flush handles currently favored by many EV manufacturers.

At the IAA Mobility show in Munich, Thomas Schafer spoke with Deutsche Welle (DW) and touched upon several topics, including the slowdown in EV sales in major markets like Europe and the US. When asked whether VW was doing enough to make its EVs more accessible, Schafer quickly emphasized the value of familiarity.

The ID. Cross concept EV with traditional door handles. Photo: Volkswagen

The ID. Cross concept EV with traditional door handles. Photo: Volkswagen

"People expect a certain familiarity with the car, with the brand they are buying," Schafer said. "People buy brands, so from that point of view, the functions have to be easy to use. Take door handles, for example. Flush door handles look good, but they are terrible to operate, so we made sure to have proper door handles on the cars, and customers are very happy. That’s the feedback we’re getting."

Schafer is not alone in this view. Recently, regulators in China have also taken notice of flush door handles, considering a ban following safety concerns and accident investigations. Given the size and influence of the Chinese auto market, this move could have repercussions beyond its borders, prompting other automakers to reconsider their approach to a design once considered trendy.

While the ID. Every1 concept car unveiled earlier this year featured flush door handles, both the ID. Cross and ID. Polo showcased in Munich utilize more traditional handles. This design may sacrifice some aerodynamic efficiency, but it offers greater ease of use in everyday life.

In the same interview, Schafer also discussed VW’s broader transition to EVs. He argued that EVs are the superior choice for buyers, but questioned whether demand and infrastructure were growing fast enough for VW to discontinue its internal combustion engine (ICE) models in the EU by 2035.

"The question is: can we get this done fast enough for 2035? Will the adoption and the build-up of infrastructure for charging happen fast enough for 2035 to be a feasible target?" he said. "Even if it's a few years later, it needs to be revisited."

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