Gasgoo Munich- The opening phase of an ambitious product rollout has begun for SAIC Volkswagen as the joint venture accelerates its electrification strategy. On March 5, the company officially launched mass production of the ID. ERA 9X at its Ningbo manufacturing plant.
Image source: SAIC Volkswagen
Positioned as the first model in the new ID. ERA lineup, the flagship SUV is intended to compete in China's growing high-end range-extended vehicle segment. Its production launch also marks a significant step in SAIC Volkswagen's broader "multi-energy" strategy, which combines battery-electric, range-extended, and other electrified powertrains.
According to the company, the ID. ERA 9X debuts a new interior interface technology known as the Smart Surface display. Using a micro-perforated membrane structure, the screen blends seamlessly into surrounding trim when inactive, creating a minimalist appearance in which the display becomes almost invisible. Once activated, the screen reveals a high-definition interface designed to maintain visual clarity while preserving the cabin's cohesive design aesthetic.
Image source: SAIC Volkswagen
In the second row, Smart Surface touch panels integrated into the door trim allow passengers to adjust climate settings, seat functions, and the in-vehicle refrigerator. The system also serves a safety role: when occupants prepare to open the door, the screen can display live rear-side camera images to warn of approaching vehicles or cyclists, helping reduce the risk of so-called "dooring" incidents.
Marketed as a flagship, the ID. ERA 9X measures 5,207 mm in length, 1,997 mm in width, and 1,810 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,070 mm.
The model adopts a range-extended electric drivetrain built around the EA211 engine acting as a generator, paired with a 65.2-kWh battery supplied by CATL. Under China's CLTC testing cycle, the vehicle is expected to deliver more than 400 kilometers of battery-powered driving range.
Stylistically, the SUV adopts what the brand describes as a bold yet restrained design language, blending robust proportions with elements inspired by Eastern aesthetics. Two exterior colors—"Desert Gold" and "Mystic Green"—have been introduced for the model.
Inside, the cabin design follows a theme centered on balance between geometric forms, pairing a 15.6-inch dual central display with a 21.4-inch ceiling-mounted rear entertainment screen. A 12.8-meter ambient lighting system surrounds the interior, aiming to deliver a premium, lounge-like atmosphere. The automaker has indicated that additional details regarding driver assistance systems and intelligent features will be revealed closer to the vehicle's market launch.
SAIC Volkswagen said the start of mass production reflects its ambition to combine global engineering expertise with the rapid product development pace demanded by the Chinese market. The ID. ERA 9X is expected to serve as a cornerstone for the company's upcoming wave of electrified products, with seven new energy vehicle models scheduled for release over the course of the year.
