Recently, Chinese-language media outlets have reported that the SAIC-Volkswagen joint venture is set to introduce three new models to the Chinese market by 2026, aiming for a resurgence. The three fashion styles, designated as A, B, and C, cleverly conceal their underlying connection to the battery-electric vehicle (BEV), extended-range electric vehicle (EREV), and plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) market segments.
SAIC has specifically developed both fashion styles A and B. The new A is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) sedan, built largely upon the existing Roewe D7 platform. Based on an unreleased model from IM Motors, the S31L codenamed B is a premium electric-reduced emissions vehicle (EREV) sport utility vehicle. While C is developed in collaboration with Volkswagen, it is a pure electric SUV built upon the China Electric Architecture (CEA) platform co-created by Xpeng and Volkswagen. The three fashion brands will adopt Volkswagen’s VW logo instead of introducing a new branding strategy.
Similar scandals have erupted before. SAIC-Volkswagen’s plans to introduce plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) and extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs) were previously reported in April of this year. According to reports, Volkswagen plans to introduce an electrified range extender (EREV) model, specifically designed as a B-class SUV, exclusively for the Chinese market with production slated to begin in 2026.
On June 27, Volkswagen, Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation (SAIC), and their respective subsidiaries concluded multiple technical cooperation agreements aimed at driving innovation in SAIC Volkswagen’s new product developments. According to the agreement, Volkswagen will jointly produce five electrified vehicle models – three plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) and two battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) – in collaboration with its Chinese partners.
According to the China Passenger Automobile Association, SAIC-Volkswagen acquired 1.049 million vehicles for the first 11 months of 2024. In November, the tripartite alliance acquired 123,000 vehicles, a 5.9 percent year-over-year increase, holding a 5.1 percent market share and ranking seventh in China’s vehicle retail sales. Concurrently, FAW-Volkswagen reported sales of 147,000 vehicles in November, a 12% decline from the same period last year, and held a market share of 6.1%, ranking fourth on the list.
Supply: SAIC-VW, Yiche, CPCA
