VW plans to roll out I.D. series SUVs in China

Shanghai (Gasgoo)- Volkswagen plans to introduce the production model of I.D. Crozz Concept to China in 2020 and sell the I.D. Vizzion production model in China's market first in 2022, the German automaker revealed to local media at the 2018 Geneva International Motor Show.

The I.D. Crozz concept model was unveiled at 2017 Shanghai International Auto-Expo as the first SUV model of I.D. family based on MEB platform. According to Christian Senger, the leader who is responsible for the R&D of VW's electric vehicles, the I.D. Crozz will be introduced in China through VW's two joint ventures, FAW-VW and SAIC-VW. MEB platform will be used to manufacture SUV models with 5-seat layout and 7-seat layout. Meanwhile, both Sino-German joint ventures will launch at least two SUV models based on MEB platform.

Taking the I.D. Crozz concept for reference, this SUV model is powered by two electric motors which can output maximum power of 201hp and 101hp respectively. Under the combined operation of two electric motors, the vehicle can run at a top speed of 246km/h. In addition, the I.D. Crozz may have a range up to 500km. When the quick charging mode is used, it only takes 30 minutes to fulfill 80% of battery capacity. 

At the 2018 Geneva Motor Show, the automaker showcased the I.D. Vizzion concept model. As a flagship electric model, the I.D. Vizzion concept carries a L5 autonomous driving system. Besides, it is equipped with a 306hp (225kW) electric motor paired with 111- kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery which holds a battery range of 665km.

According to Christian Senger, the production model of I.D. Vizzion will hit the global market in 2022 and will be locally produced in China.

However, I.D. Vizzion production model will be installed with L4 autonomous driving system rather than L5 system. Thus, different from the concept model, the production model still use traditional steering wheel, center console, accelerator pedal as well as brake pedal.

In accordance with VW's planning, it aims to achieve the sales of MEB platform-produced vehicles accounting for 10%-15% of VW's total sales in 2025. In the meantime, the automaker has a blueprint to deliver 1 million electric vehicles in 2025 among which China sales will reach 600 thousand units. Thus, both FAW-VW and SAIC-VW will synchronously promote the introduction of MEB platform. Besides, VW brand wishes to release at least 10 models based on MEB platform by the end of 2025.