Volkswagen is gearing up to launch its first extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) designed specifically for the Chinese market, the ID. Era crossover, set to debut in 2026. This move signals a significant step for VW in embracing the rapidly evolving Chinese EV landscape, particularly working with local partners to deliver vehicles tailored to regional preferences.
A Glimpse of the Future
Ralf Brandstaetter, CEO of Volkswagen Group China, recently offered a sneak peek of the mass-produced ID. Era. From the camouflaged images, it is clear the production model stays true to the concept car initially unveiled at the Shanghai Auto Show 2025. This full-size SUV is engineered with large families in mind, offering a versatile three-row seating configuration for six or seven occupants.
Design That Blends Innovation and Practicality
The ID. Era’s exterior design stands out with distinctive two-story headlights featuring thin running lights and LED headlamps. It sports a high bonnet line and a flat roof, contributing to its commanding presence. A notable feature is the inclusion of a LiDAR sensor, hinting at advanced driver assistance capabilities – likely an L2 system. Intriguingly, the ID. Era will boast retractable door handles, a design choice that remains despite recent Chinese safety discussions around this technology.
From the side, the ID. Era impresses with wide wheel arches, multi-spoke rims, and practical roof rails. An active air intake complements the modern aesthetic. It retains conventional side-view mirrors and a charging port conveniently placed in the right rear fender. While the interior remains largely under wraps, spy shots reveal a large central screen and plush headrest pillows for the driver, suggesting a focus on in-cabin comfort and technology.
Performance with Purpose: EREV Powertrain
Specific powertrain details for the Volkswagen ID. Era SUV are still emerging, but it is expected to draw power from a system similar to SAIC’s IM Motor EREV. This setup promises a combined range of over 1,000 km, alleviating range anxiety for long journeys. For context, the IM LS6 fastback EREV crossover features an 800V platform with a 66 kWh battery, delivering a CLTC range of 450 km and propelled by two electric motors generating a peak power of 500 kW (670 hp).
Market Positioning and Competition
Production for the ID. Era is slated to begin in April 2026, with sales likely kicking off at the Beijing Auto Show later that year. Once launched, the ID. Era will enter a competitive segment, vying for market share against established large range extenders like the Li L9 and the Aito M9. However, Volkswagen is entering this space at an interesting time, as the Chinese market has seen a recent shift in preferences, with buyers leaning more towards battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), causing a five-month decline in EREV sales. It seems VW might have missed the initial wave of booming EREV growth.
Despite this, Volkswagen’s commitment to collaborating with Chinese partners like SAIC and Xpeng – as seen with the development of the ID.Unyx 07 and Xpeng’s autonomous driving tech – demonstrates its strategic focus on the Chinese market. This local-for-local approach could be key to the ID. Era finding its niche and succeeding in China’s dynamic new energy vehicle sector. Additionally, with Volkswagen investing heavily in local research and development, they are clearly serious about strengthening their presence in China.
