The first batch of VW ID.3 models has reached British shores at the Grimsby port in 1st Edition spec, in preparation for initial customer deliveries which are slated for later this month.

Each ID.3 1st Edition model comes with a pre-loaded We Charge card, providing customers with up to one year of free charging – equivalent to 2,000 kWh or £500 ($668). This card can be used at 150,000 charging stations across Europe, including the IONITY network and its rapid chargers.

In terms of equipment levels, the 1st Edition comes with heated front seats, Natural Voice Control with ID. Light, sat-nav, Adaptive Cruise Control, Keyless entry and start, IQ Light LED matrix headlights with Welcome Light, a two tone exterior and 19-inch wheels.

The fully-electric hatchback also boasts a central airbag (a VW first) and the Golf’s Car2X system, which communicates with other similarly-equipped vehicles in the vicinity, highlighting potential dangers.

The 1st Edition has a 58 kWh battery and a 204 PS (201 HP) electric motor driving the rear wheels, resulting in a range of 261 miles (420 km). Top it off with a 100 kW rapid charger and you can add 180 miles (290 km) in just 30 minutes.

“The moment we’ve been waiting for is here – the ID.3 has officially arrived in the UK. This milestone represents the dawn of a new mobility era for Volkswagen after the success of the Beetle – and ongoing success of the Golf – with the aim of providing accessible electric mobility for millions, not just millionaires. The ID.3 is also our first carbon-neutral car, as well as being an all-round, game-changing electric vehicle, so this moment is especially rewarding. Put simply, it signposts the sustainable future of Volkswagen” said VW UK exec Andrew Savvas.

“I can’t wait to see these first ID.3 cars out on the road, after customers collect them from retailers later this month. This is only the beginning, however, with the series versions of the ID.3 incoming, and the ID.4 on its way. The future is now.”