Volkswagen Unveils Radical Design Shift for Future Electric Models at Beijing Motor Show
At the 2024 Beijing motor show, Volkswagen showcased its ID Code concept, revealing a new design language specifically tailored for Chinese-market cars. The concept SUV-coupé previews a range of electric models that Volkswagen is developing in collaboration with its joint venture partners in China. The ID Code is set to become the flagship model for Volkswagen’s newly announced ID UX Chinese EV family.
The ID Code concept represents a departure from the current ID-badged models in terms of both appearance and packaging. The four-seater sports a unique front end with eye-catching headlight styling and an illuminated Volkswagen logo, features that resonate well with younger EV buyers in China. Volkswagen’s design boss, Andreas Mindt, described the ID Code as “distinguished” and “inspiring,” stating that it is more expressive than any of their existing models. The concept aims to provide a warm and human-like touch through light animations, including a welcome function for the headlights that mimic the blinking of eyes.
The exterior design of the ID Code features a clean and low front end without a traditional grille, a long bonnet, raked windscreen, and a curved roofline, giving it more traditional proportions compared to the cab-forward ID models. Prominent front wheel arches, rear haunches above large wheelhouses, and an extended wheelbase contribute to its muscular stance and stability on the move.
In terms of digital functionality, Volkswagen aims to match its Chinese rivals by introducing an avatar on the driver’s side window that provides information on traffic and weather conditions. This is part of Volkswagen’s Smart Window Concept, which enhances the overall user experience.
The ID Code concept also showcases a new driver-centric interior design that incorporates AI-supported infotainment functions and advanced level-four autonomous driving capability. Lidar units light up the exterior of the car when it is operating in autonomous mode.
The ID UX sub-brand, which includes the ID Unyx as its first model, is designed to cater to a younger audience in China. Volkswagen aims to compete with both established Chinese car manufacturers and new electric car start-ups through the ideas, technology, and processes behind the ID Code concept.
While the new design language has been developed for the Chinese market, there are discussions within Volkswagen’s design headquarters in Wolfsburg, Germany regarding its potential influence on future models planned for sale in Europe. Mindt stated that Volkswagen has already shown how the look of electric models for Europe will progress with the ID 2 and ID 2 GTI, which have more traditional styling. However, he did not rule out the possibility of introducing a car like the ID Code to other markets in the future.
Volkswagen plans to expand its line-up in China with 12 new petrol models and six new plug-in hybrids, in addition to its electric car offerings. The company will launch models based on its existing MQB and MEB platforms, as well as new models on the EE electric car platform and the China Main Platform (CMP) from 2026. Volkswagen has also partnered with Horizon Robotics and Thundersoft in China for the development of autonomous driving, infotainment, and connectivity features.
Overall, Volkswagen’s ID Code concept represents a significant shift in design for its future electric models, specifically targeted towards the Chinese market. The concept showcases Volkswagen’s commitment to providing a visually appealing and technologically advanced electric vehicle lineup that can compete with both domestic and international rivals. With its unique design language and innovative features, the ID Code sets the stage for Volkswagen’s future in China and potentially beyond.