- The VW ID. Code is a sleek SUV concept with futuristic lighting units and a hidden interactive display on the front bumper.
- According to the VW CEO, the ID. Code gives “a first preview of the future of VW in China” both in terms of styling and technology.
- The concept will evolve into a production SUV offering for the Chinese market.
Volkswagen revealed the new ID. Code concept at the 2024 Beijing Auto Show, offering a glimpse into an upcoming electric SUV for production. Additionally, it serves as the introduction to the brand’s fresh design direction, particularly tailored for the Chinese market.
The ID. Code was collaboratively designed by Volkswagen teams in China and Europe, with a keen focus on meeting the demands of Chinese customers. The SUV concept boasts clean surfacing and an aerodynamic roofline, resembling a futuristic electric Tiguan. Additionally, it features Level 4 autonomous driving capabilities, effectively transforming the driver into a passenger.
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According to Andreas Mindt, Chief Designer at VW, the styling of the concept demonstrates “the elegant and powerful dynamism of a Gran Turismo”. The design correlation between the ID. Code and the ID range currently in production is limited to just a few details, meaning that VW is probably looking to visually differentiate its Chinese offerings compared to its worldwide products.
Still, there are references to VW’s heritage, like the strong D-pillars inspired by the original Golf, and a set of sculpted fenders, a detail originally introduced by the ID.2all concept last year.
The slim LED bars on both ends stretch across the entire width of the concept, interrupted only by the VW badges. During autonomous mode, these lighting units interact with other road users using AI assistance. Additionally, the front bumper incorporates a concealed screen that becomes visible only when activated, displaying welcome messages and even the weather forecast.
Volkswagen
The interior of the ID. Code is described as a “mobile living space”, taking advantage of its autonomous driving capabilities. The dashboard features a full-width display mounted on the base of the windscreen, with a second free-standing display in portrait orientation serving as an extension of the floating center console.
In autonomous mode, the yoke steering wheel retracts, and the seats can rotate 180 degrees, offering a sleeping position for longer journeys. VW says it has ensured that the materials used throughout the cabin are animal-free, while drawing inspiration for the ambient lighting and climate control systems from private jets. Additionally, the transparent roof features a photovoltaic system, providing the EV with extra free energy.
The concept is also equipped with an AI-assisted virtual assistant in the form of an avatar for the driver and passengers. The avatar appears both in the exterior through the “smart windows” and the interior via the large displays.
VW didn’t get into details about the underpinnings of the ID. Code, other than saying it has a fully electric powertrain. The concept is set to evolve into a production SUV that will debut in China sometime in the coming years. More importantly, it will inspire the design of all future VW products for the Chinese market.
VW CEO Thomas Schäfer stated, “The ID. CODE provides a glimpse into VW’s future in China: featuring a new design, cutting-edge technology, and a comprehensive brand experience tailored to the needs and desires of our Chinese customers. We’re ushering in a new era of mobility in China, hand in hand with our Chinese partners.”