Volkswagen typically uses its concept cars to make a statement. Heading into the Shanghai Auto Show, VW had a clear statement to make. The brand intends to reclaim its sales mantle in China. The brand debuted three new, sleek-looking electrified concepts. Those concepts herald a product offensive that will see Volkswagen launch 30 new vehicles for the Chinese market through the end of 2027.
Key Takeaways
- VW revealed three new electric and EREV concepts in China
- They herald a product offensive with 30 new vehicles by 2027 that should boost VW sales
- These cars are part of an “In China, For China” strategy
- So, don’t expect production versions of these concepts to reach America
Volkswagen Unveiled Three New Concepts At The Shanghai Auto Show
VW’s Shanghai Auto Show reveal included three new concepts: the ID. ERA, the ID. AURA, and the ID. EVO. They are part of the class of “new energy vehicles,” which are electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid vehicles, and range-extender EVs. Those will account for 20 of the 30 new product launches. VW is aiming to get the new production vehicles out at “China Speed,” with a maximum 34-month development cycle.
The ID. ERA is a three-row SUV. It’s a range-extender EREV with a gasoline engine charging the battery that powers the electric motors. VW says it delivers 186 miles of EV-only range; that would likely be less under more stringent American EPA testing. Volkswagen is promising far more range from its Scout EREVs in America. VW says the total electric and gas range for the ID. ERA would be more than 621 miles.
The ID. AURA is an electric “notchback” for price-conscious buyers. It runs on the Compact Main Platform, a VW platform only used in China. The ID. AURA includes advanced tech like an AI humanoid assistant and “highly automated” driving. VW did not provide interior photos but says the vehicle has a new smartphone-inspired UI/UX element in the center console, which could offer a different take on the touchscreen. The ID. EVO is an all-electric full-size SUV. Part of the ID. Unyx family, the ID. EVO features an 800V architecture, advanced software features, and super-quick OTA software updates.
No, These Volkswagen Concepts Are Not Coming To America
Don’t get your hopes up about seeing these specific vehicles in America. Volkswagen said these vehicles are part of an “In China, for China” strategy. The concepts were produced with VW’s domestic Chinese partners: FAW-Volkswagen for the ID. AURA, SAIC-Volkswagen for the ID. ERA, and Volkswagen Anhui for the ID. EVO. VW says production vehicles will emerge from these concepts but notes they are “specifically tailored to the needs of Chinese customers,” all but confirming it has no intention of selling them elsewhere. Though it’s always possible some tech innovations could end up in an American Tiguan down the road.
TopSpeed’s Take
The “In China, for China” strategy fits with Volkswagen’s broader global strategy of tailoring its offerings for specific markets. The VW logo is the same. But the vehicles wearing it differ wildly. The same Volkswagen that is reasserting itself as a small car manufacturer for the people in Europe argues that people don’t want small cars in America. Buyers in China want electric powertrains and advanced AI and in-car tech features. And that’s what VW plans to deliver — in that market.
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