Volkswagen’s Strategic Leap: ID. Era 9X Debuts in China

Volkswagen has unveiled the serial crossover ID. Era 9X, designed specifically for the Chinese market through the SAIC Volkswagen joint venture. The vehicle is powered exclusively by electric motors, with a gasoline engine used solely for recharging the traction battery. Essentially, this is a serial hybrid.

In terms of size, the ID. Era 9X surpasses most global Volkswagen crossovers and SUVs. Moreover, the ID. Era 9X even outsizes the BMW X7. The car’s dimensions are 5207 x 1997 x 1810 mm, with a wheelbase of 3070 mm. The interior layout is six-seater, in a 2+2+2 format. Externally, the production version closely mirrors the concept shown last year.

Volkswagen will offer three power configurations. The base version comes with a single rear-axle electric motor producing 295 hp and an LFP battery with a capacity of 51.1 kWh, providing up to 267 km of electric range. The second modification is also rear-wheel drive but with a traction battery of 65.2 kWh (electric range already 340 km). The top version is supplemented by a second electric motor and all-wheel drive, with power amounting to 510 hp and an electric range of 321 km.

The maximum range, taking into account the gasoline generator, is expected to exceed 1,000 km, although Volkswagen has not yet revealed exact figures. The interior of the production version has not been shown, but it is expected to retain a huge panoramic display spanning the entire dashboard width, as well as an optional screen for second-row passengers.

Prices are expected to be announced closer to the start of sales. For now, the ID. Era 9X is declared exclusively for China.

Volkswagen’s entry with the ID. Era 9X into the Chinese market is a significant move considering the growing demand for electric vehicles there. Local environmental regulations could further drive sales. The hybrid feature might appeal to both traditional and eco-conscious buyers, offering longer travel ranges without frequent recharging stops.