The concept, which shows Volkswagen’s future in the Chinese market, will evolve into a production electric SUV
- The VW ID. Code is a sleek SUV concept with futuristic lighting units and a hidden interactive display on the front bumper.
- According to the VW boss, the ID. Code gives “a first glimpse of the future of VW in China”, both in terms of design and technology.
- The concept will develop into a series SUV offering for the Chinese market.
Volkswagen has presented the new ID. Code concept at the 2024 Beijing Auto Show, offering a glimpse of an upcoming production electric SUV. Additionally, it serves as an introduction to the brand’s new design direction, specifically tailored to the Chinese market.
The ID. The code was jointly developed by Volkswagen teams in China and Europe, with a focus on meeting the needs of Chinese customers. The SUV concept features a clean surface and an aerodynamic roofline, reminiscent of a futuristic electric Tiguan. Additionally, it has Level 4 autonomous driving capabilities, effectively turning the driver into a passenger.
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According to Andreas Mindt, chief designer at VW, the design of the concept demonstrates “the elegant and powerful dynamics of a Gran Turismo”. The design connection between the ID. The code and ID section currently in production is limited to few details, meaning VW is likely trying to visually differentiate its Chinese offerings from its global products.
Still, there are hints of VW’s heritage, like the strong D-pillars inspired by the original Golf and a set of sculpted fenders, a detail originally introduced on the ID.2all concept last year.
The slim LED strips at both ends extend across the entire width of the concept vehicle and are only interrupted by the VW emblems. In autonomous mode, these lighting units interact with other road users using AI support. Additionally, the front bumper features a hidden screen that is only visible when activated and displays welcome messages and even the weather forecast.
Volkswagen
The interior of the ID. Code is described as a “mobile living space” that utilizes its autonomous driving capabilities. The dashboard features a full-width display mounted at the bottom of the windshield. A second free-standing display in portrait format serves as an extension of the floating center console.
In autonomous mode, the steering wheel retracts and the seats can rotate 180 degrees, creating a sleeping position for longer journeys. VW says it has ensured that the materials used throughout the cabin are cruelty-free and has taken inspiration from private jets for its ambient lighting and climate control systems. In addition, the transparent roof has a photovoltaic system that supplies the electric vehicle with additional free energy.
The concept is also equipped with an AI-powered virtual assistant in the form of an avatar for the driver and passengers. The avatar appears both outside through the “Smart Windows” and inside through the large displays.
VW did not provide any information about the basics of the ID. Code, except that it has an all-electric powertrain. The concept is expected to develop into a production SUV that will be launched in China sometime in the coming years. More importantly, it will inspire the design of all future VW products for the Chinese market.
VW boss Thomas Schäfer explained: “The ID. CODE provides a glimpse into VW’s future in China: with new design, cutting-edge technology and a comprehensive brand experience tailored to the needs and desires of our Chinese customers. Together with our Chinese partners, we are ushering in a new era of mobility in China.”