Volkswagen’s debut at this year’s Auto China in Beijing is the ID. Code, a concept that previews a future large electric SUV with a new design language that will also be applied to future models sold in China.
Outstanding references to the ID. The codes include a swept-back roofline and chiseled wheel arches that flow into smooth surfaces for a more aerodynamic shape. Meanwhile, the front end gets an interactive lighting system that includes the so-called Light Cloud, which consists of 967 LEDs that form a strip of light between the headlights.
The light cloud is intended to add character to the concept by allowing it to “express itself” through “3D eyes that look in different directions.” There’s also the light shade, which is located where a grille would once be. This acts like a display panel that can display various information or messages when active (e.g. in autonomous driving mode), but otherwise blends into the body thanks to a special transparent paint finish.
The ID provides even more expressiveness. Code features Smart Windows, where certain areas on the glass can display an avatar that can interact with you as you approach the vehicle. Not surprisingly, artificial intelligence (AI) will power many of these systems.
Since this is an electric vehicle (EV), Volkswagen isn’t revealing many details, other than the fact that there are electric motors that draw their power from a lithium-ion battery, complemented by solar panels integrated into the glass roof. There’s also a comprehensive sensor suite and advanced processing to enable Level 4 autonomous driving, where the driver can take their hands off the wheel.
In self-driving mode, passengers can sit in the front and rotate their seats 180 degrees to mingle with rear passengers or start a conversation with the car’s avatar. The interior itself is minimalist in design, with one display spanning the entire top of the dashboard, while a second display folds up from the top of the center console. Volkswagen adds the ID. Code’s sound, ambient lighting and climate systems are designed to ensure comfort on the private jet
It remains to be seen how many of the concept’s fancy features will make it into production, but the ID. Code represents the beginning of a new future for the brand’s electric vehicles in China. To this end, Volkswagen announces its ID. The family will grow to a total of 16 models by 2030, including five electric vehicles that are part of a new sub-brand ID.UX and will make their market debut by 2027.
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