- VW will launch 30 new models in China by 2030 with combustion, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric powertrains.
- The VW ID lineup will include 16 electric models by the end of the decade, including 5 from the new ID.UX sub-brand.
- The ID.UX models will feature progressive exterior design and a driver-centric interior with a new HMI concept focused on young customers.
The new ID.Code concept wasn’t the only news to emerge from China today for Volkswagen. The German brand also unveiled its future plans for the Chinese market, which include the debut of over 30 new models across all powertrain types by 2030 and the introduction of a new ID.UX sub-brand exclusively offering electric vehicles.
Volkswagen aims to leverage greater localization and the use of market-specific platforms to reduce costs and enhance competitiveness against Chinese brands like BYD.
More: Talking Headlights? VW ID. Code Concept Gets Weird
The announcement also featured a teaser of the VW ID.Unyx, set to be the first member of the ID.UX series. Thanks to photos and information from China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, we are already familiar with the upcoming EV that is essentially a rebadged Cupra Tavascan. While the twins share their bodywork, the ID.Unyx distinguishes itself with a redesigned front bumper, distinct LED graphics at both ends, and prominent VW emblems.
VW said that the ID. family will grow to a total of 16 models by 2030, including 5 EVs from the new ID.UX sub-brand. The latter will formally debut in 2027, despite the fact that its first model – the ID.Unyx – will go on sale within 2024.
The ID.UX offerings will be distinguished by a “lifestyle-oriented” and “progressive” exterior design, likely inspired by the ID. Code concept unveiled at this week’s Beijing Auto Show. On the other hand, their “driver-centric” interior will feature an “an entirely new display and operating concept” targeting young customers.
China’s MIIT / VW
Unlike other regions where VW maintains a separate lineup for its EVs, in China, they will gradually introduce electric versions of their existing ICE models. However, the combustion range will not be overlooked, as the company intends to unveil 12 new ICE-powered models and 6 new hybrids by 2030, including plug-in hybrids capable of over 100 km (62 miles) of zero-emission range.
The new offerings won’t be limited to the tried-and-tested MQB and MEB platforms that underpin the existing range. Volkswagen plans to introduce new options into the mix, developing a new architecture in collaboration with Chinese automaker Xpeng. Two new midsize vehicles are planned for 2026 as part of this initiative.
Furthermore, Volkswagen China Technology Company (VCTC) based in Hefei is working on VW Group’s first electric platform specifically developed for the Chinese market. This one will be called the China Main Platform (CMP) and is set to underpin at least four entry-level EVs starting from 2026.
Last but not least, Volkswagen plans to intensify production, development, procurement, and battery manufacturing in China. This effort aims to reduce costs and enhance competitiveness against local automakers. In the same vein, Chinese partners such as Xpeng, Horizon Robotics (CARIZON joint venture), and Thundersoft (CARThunder joint venture) will be integrated into the development process at an early stage.
