Volkswagen is showing off new ‘design language’ and new technology for future Chinese models with the ID. Code show car unveiled today at Auto China 2024.
Like other western automakers, VW is struggling in China as domestic rivals unveil a slew of cheaper NEVs across all price points.
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VW said it planned to “tap into new customer groups” (read; younger, tech-savvy buyers) with its new ID.UX electric sub-brand.
“With all-electric, lifestyle-oriented models, this sub-brand is designed to appeal to younger customers in particular,” the automaker said.
It plans 30 new models across all powertrains and segments by 2030.
Its ‘In China, for China’ strategy encourages strong local tech development and partnerships for shorter development times.
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By GlobalData“The goal is even closer alignment with the specific requirements of customers in the world’s largest auto market and to provide them with a convincing product offering in all relevant segments,” VW said in a statement.
The ID. Code is designed for Level 4 fully autonomous driving.
The new strategy for China has three pillars: a comprehensive product line accelerating electrification of models, a brand and design language developed specifically for China and local technical development with strong local partners to accelerate innovation.
The concept car exterior also functions as a projection surface for AI assisted light and display systems.
The ID. family will grow to 16 models by 2030 including five EVs in the ID.UX sub brand all due out by 2027.
VW is also introducing electric versions of its ICE models and expanding its range with new plug-in hybrids with an electric range of 100km (62 miles).
Twelve new ICE models and six hybrids will arrive by 2030.
The automaker also is complementing its proven MQB and MEB vehicle architectures by adding local platforms in China through the likes of the cooperation with XPeng.
Hefei-based Volkswagen China Technology Company (VCTC) is developing the group’s first electric platform specifically for China.
At least four additional models for the electric entry level segment are to be built on the China Main Plattform (CMP) from 2026.
ID.UX brand specific features include a ‘progressive exterior design’ along with a driver centric interior featuring an entirely new display and operating concept (HMI) for young customers.
The first model is the ID.UNYX, scheduled to make its market debut in 2024.
By the end of the year, the number of employees at the R&D site in Anhui alone will have grown to 3,000. The brand is also intensifying localisation to achieve significantly shorter development cycles.
Chinese collaborators such as Xpeng, Horizon Robotics and Thundersoft are to be integrated into the development process at an early stage.
With Xpeng, two new mid-class vehicles are planned from 2026.
Meanwhile employees at the Carizon joint venture with Horizon Robotics and the Carthunder joint venture with Thundersoft are engaged in developing innovative systems for autonomous driving, infotainment and connectivity.
