Design show car ID. CODE debuts at Auto China 2024
With the world premiere of the ID. CODE at Auto China 2024 will give Volkswagen a first look at the new design language of future models and at the same time start a new era of technology. The concept vehicle was developed specifically for customers in China. With its powerful, clear and fluid surfaces, the concept vehicle is reminiscent of a Gran Turismo. The exterior is also a projection surface for next-generation AI-supported lighting and display systems. The newly designed living space on board the ID fits in with this. CODE, in which the real and virtual worlds combine to create a new mobility experience. The electrically powered concept car can be driven both conventionally and autonomously at Level 4.
Broad product portfolio announced for Chinese customers by 2030
The ID. Family will grow to a total of 16 models by 2030. These include five electric cars from the new ID.UX sub-brand, which will celebrate their market debut by 2027. Volkswagen is also gradually electrifying its combustion engine models and expanding its China portfolio to include new, highly efficient plug-in hybrids with an electric range of more than 100 kilometers. Twelve new combustion engine and six hybrid models will be launched by 2030. Volkswagen is also supplementing the proven MQB and MEB vehicle architectures with local platforms in China - also through partnerships such as with XPENG. In addition, the Hefei-based Volkswagen China Technology Company (VCTC) is developing the group’s first China-specific electric platform. At least four additional models for the entry-level electric segment are to be built on the China Main Platform (CMP) from 2026. The variety of platforms enables Volkswagen to offer its customers the right offer in all relevant segments and for every need.
New all-electric sub-brand ID.UX expands range
With ID.UX, Volkswagen is expanding its e-offering for new customer groups in China. ID.UX combines proven VW virtues with lifestyle-oriented design DNA. Brand-specific features include a progressive exterior design and a driver-centric interior with a completely new display and control concept (HMI) for young customers. The first ID.UX model is the ID.UNYX. It is scheduled to be launched on the market in 2024.
Increased local development for more innovative strength
Volkswagen is strengthening its ecosystem of production, development, procurement and battery production in China. At the R&D location in Anhui alone, the number of employees will grow to 3,000 experts by the end of the year. The brand also relies on more localization for significantly shorter development cycles. Chinese partners such as XPENG, Horizon Robotics and Thundersoft are involved in the development process at an early stage. With XPENG, two new vehicles for the middle class are being created, which are planned for 2026. The employees in the joint ventures CARIZON with Horizon Robotics and CARThunder with Thundersoft develop innovative systems for autonomous driving, infotainment and connectivity.