Volkswagen Bets Big on Extended-Range EVs for China
Volkswagen is doubling down on China with the debut of its new flagship SUV, the Volkswagen ID. Era 9X. Designed specifically for the Chinese market, this Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) targets fast-growing local rivals such as Aito M8, developed with backing from Huawei.
The ID. Era 9X is not a conventional hybrid. Instead, it represents Volkswagen’s most serious attempt yet to blend long electric range, family-focused luxury, and Chinese-specific technology expectations into one vehicle.
What Is an EREV and Why China Loves It
The ID. Era 9X uses an Extended Range Electric Vehicle layout:
-
The wheels are always driven by electric motors
-
A gasoline engine never drives the wheels
-
The engine acts as a generator, charging the battery or supplying electricity directly to the motors
This approach eliminates range anxiety while preserving the smooth driving feel of a pure EV — a key reason EREVs are booming in China.
Size and Presence: Bigger Than a BMW iX
Volkswagen clearly understands that size matters in China.
Volkswagen ID. Era 9X Dimensions
| Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | Just over 5.2 m |
| Width | Nearly 2.0 m |
| Height | 1.81 m |
| Wheelbase | 3.07 m |
| Wheels | 20-inch (21-inch optional) |
That makes the ID. Era 9X is longer and slightly taller than a BMW iX, with a commanding road presence and generous interior proportions.
Interior Layout: Built for Large Families
Inside, the ID. Era 9X is configured as a three-row, six-seat SUV, aligning perfectly with Chinese family preferences.
Design highlights include:
-
Modern, minimalist dashboard inspired by the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show concept
-
Thin LED lighting signatures front and rear
-
Mostly closed front fascia with active air intakes for cooling when needed
The long wheelbase ensures ample legroom across all three rows.
Powertrain: Generator + Electric Muscle
At the heart of the system is a 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine supplied by SAIC.
Generator Engine
-
Output: 141 hp (105 kW)
-
Function: Battery charging and power supply only
-
No mechanical link to the wheels
Three Versions, Three Different Characters
Volkswagen will offer the ID. Era 9X in three distinct configurations, all capped at 200 km/h top speed.
ID. Era 9X Powertrain Comparison
| Version | Drivetrain | Battery | EV Range | Power | Weight | Fuel Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base | RWD | 51.1 kWh | 267 km | 295 hp (220 kW) | 2,600 kg | 5.95 l/100 km |
| Mid | RWD | 65.2 kWh (NMC) | 340 km | 295 hp (220 kW) | 2,620 kg | 5.95 l/100 km |
| Top | AWD | 65.2 kWh | 321 km | 510 hp (380 kW) | 2,700 kg | 6.27 l/100 km |
Highlights
-
340 km electric-only range is exceptional for an EREV
-
AWD version delivers supercar-level power for a family SUV
-
Fuel efficiency remains reasonable despite the size and weight
Strategic Importance for Volkswagen in China
The ID. Era 9X signals a major strategic shift:
-
Designed exclusively for China
-
Focused on EREV technology, not just BEVs
-
Competes directly with Chinese tech-forward brands
-
Built to match local expectations for size, range, and digital features
With domestic brands moving quickly, Volkswagen can no longer rely on global platforms alone — and the ID. Era 9X proves the company understands that reality.
Final Verdict: Volkswagen Adapts or Falls Behind
The Volkswagen ID. Era 9X is big, heavy, complex — and exactly what the Chinese market is asking for right now. Its long electric range, flexible EREV setup, and family-focused layout make it a credible rival to local favorites.
Whether it succeeds will depend on pricing and software execution, but one thing is clear:
Volkswagen is no longer playing it safe in China.
Volkswagen unveiled the ID. Era 9X in China, a massive three-row EREV SUV designed to rival local tech-heavy competitors. With up to 340 km of electric-only range, 510 hp in AWD form, and family-focused luxury, the ID. Era 9X shows how Volkswagen is reshaping its strategy to stay competitive in the world’s largest EV market.
