Volkswagen reveals China-only ID.6 SUV family

Volkswagen has revealed two versions of the ID.6 SUV which will seat up to seven people and which will be manufactured exclusively for the Chinese market using the brands modular electric drive kit (MEB) platform. 

The ID.6 Crozz is being manufactured in the north of China by the FAW-Volkswagen joint venture in Foshan and the ID.6 X in the southern part of the country by the SAIC-Volkswagen joint venture in Anting. 

Volkswagen says the ID.6 is a continuation of its regionalisation strategy and is another step towards becoming the most sought-after brand for sustainable mobility in China. 

“With the new ID.6, we are laying the foundations for at least 50% of our cars sold in China being electric by 2030,” Volkswagen chief executive officer Ralf Brandstätter says.

“By 2023, Volkswagen will have a total of eight ID. models in China, making MEB nationwide there. The economies of scale that we have achieved allow us to offer the latest technology at an affordable price – and further expand our electric offensive.” 

Volkswagen says the ID.6 is tailored specifically to the needs and wishes of Chinese customers in terms of space, functionality, design and, user experience. 

It will be available in four configurations, with a range of up to 588 km (China NEDC) and 225 kW of power.

The two batteries available have a storage capacity of 58 kWh and 77 kWh of net battery capacity, and allow a range of between 436 and 588 km (China NEDC). The battery is located under the passenger cabin, providing a low centre of gravity. The 4MOTION versions produce an output of 225 kW (305 PS) – enough to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.6 seconds and for a top speed of 160 km/h. 

The 4.88-metre ID.6 provides an additional 30 centimetres in length compared with the ID.4 to accommodate a third row of seats. 

It also offers a choice of wheels from 19- to 21-inche, a second row of seats that can be adjusted longitudinally and a large panoramic glass roof. A panoramic sunroof that opens is available as an optional extra. 

The e-SUV comes without any physical buttons and switches. The operating concept uses a 12-inch display with a touchscreen – and the “Hello ID.” voice control. The ID. Light – a narrow strip light below the windscreen – provides the driver with intuitive support. An augmented reality head-up display is available as an optional extra, which merges some notifications with reality – for example, turn arrows from the navigation system are projected onto the correct lane on the road. 

The IQ.Drive assistance systems make driving even more relaxed; notably Travel Assist. The software and hardware of the ID.6 have an innovative architectural design, allowing customers to update their cars after purchase.