Volkswagen Group plans to roll out 30 battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) in China by 2030. The move is a crucial part of the German legacy automaker’s efforts to compete in the world’s largest auto market amid the growing dominance of cheap China-made EVs.
30 new VW EVs to hit the Chinese market
The news about Volkswagen’s plans to launch 30 new all-electric vehicle models in BYD’s home market emerged ahead of the upcoming Auto China 2024 motor show in Beijing (Beijing Auto Show).
VW Group, through its Hefei-based Volkswagen China Technology Company (VCTC) division, is currently developing these new models in the country. The move is part of the group’s “in China, for China” strategy as it seeks to better compete in the highly competitive market.
VW Group has also developed a new electric architecture to improve its electric vehicles’ appeal to Chinese customers. According to the company, four compact-class EVs will initially use the China Main Platform (CMP) starting in 2026.
“The Volkswagen Group is fully committed to China, the powerhouse of the global automotive industry. We have a clear ambition to remain the leading international car manufacturer in China and we are accelerating our speed of innovation with our Chinese partners. At Auto China 2024, we provide thrilling proof of our innovative strength We operate in China, for China.”
Oliver Blume, Volkswagen AG’s Board of Management Chairman
VW’s electrification progress
The German automotive group has long aimed to become a global leader in the electric vehicle industry. However, it has since struggled to fulfill this goal due to the growing number of automakers seeking to compete in the rapidly growing market.
Nonetheless, Volkswagen continues to make strides in its electrification efforts. For instance, two of its EVs (ID. 4 and ID. 3) made the world’s top 20 most popular electric vehicles.
VW teases entry at Auto China 2024
VW Group also teased some details about its plans for the upcoming Auto China 2024 next week.
According to the company, four brands under the VW umbrella will debut new concept cars and electric vehicle models specifically designed for the Chinese market. These brands include Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche, and Lamborghini.
Presented below are Volkswagen’s remarks on what we can expect at the Beijing Auto Show 2024:
| “The Volkswagen brand will reveal a concept car tailored for Chinese consumers. A new, progressive member of the ID. family — to be produced by Volkswagen Anhui — will also make its debut, and expand the brand’s all-electric ID. portfolio in China.” “Audi is debuting multiple all-new BEV models, highlighting its ongoing determination to deliver premium electric mobility with deepened commitment to China. Its first market-specific model based on the PPE platform and new E3 1.2 architecture, the Q6L e-tron, will notably make its world premiere at the ‘Group Media Night’. Other highlights include the China premiere of the SQ6 e-tron and the Q5 e-tron RS edition, underlining the spirit of ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’ in the ICV era.” “Porsche will present the world premiere of the 8th variant of Taycan in China, which is tailored specifically for the Chinese market. The new model combines higher performance with fully improved luxury and comfort equipment, aiming to meet the needs of Chinese consumers for a more powerful and practical sports car. The all-electric Macan will also make its China debut. With its characteristic Porsche performance, progressive yet timeless design, long-distance range and high everyday practicality, the all-electric Macan is the perfect interpretation of an all-electric luxury sports SUV.” “Meanwhile, a Lamborghini PHEV model will make its world premiere at the ‘Group Media Night’.” |
Volkswagen’s substantial interest in the Chinese market is unsurprising, considering the country currently serves as the core of global electric vehicle adoption. It accounted for 60% of the total plug-in vehicle sales worldwide in 2023.
