Volkswagen Group Accelerates “In China, for China” Strategy at Auto Shanghai 2025
The Volkswagen Group is demonstrating the full force of its “In China, for China” strategy at Auto Shanghai 2025, unveiling its first China-exclusive vehicles developed specifically for Chinese customers. These models, introduced under the Audi and Volkswagen brands, highlight the Group’s swift transformation, with seven world premieres on show. The latest generation of intelligent, fully connected vehicles (ICVs) promises to capture new market segments and appeal to broader customer bases in China’s competitive automotive sector.
From 23 April to 2 May, Auto Shanghai 2025 marks the beginning of the Group’s biggest ICV offensive in China. By 2027, Volkswagen aims to launch more than 20 fully electric or electrified models (NEVs), forming part of a significant product expansion. By 2030, its brands will offer around 30 all-electric models, with Volkswagen taking the lead in the era of highly advanced, fully connected vehicles.
On the eve of the show, the Group will present its AI-powered, highly automated driving system for China. This pioneering system, developed by CARIZON – Volkswagen’s hub for intelligent driving in China – sets new benchmarks for highly automated and human-like driving across all traffic conditions, upholding the highest safety and quality standards. This reveals the Group’s strength in Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), paving the way towards Level 3 autonomous driving and beyond.
Oliver Blume, Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG, emphasised the importance of the Chinese market, stating, “China is a key territory for the Volkswagen Group. We realigned our strategy two years ago, and our progress exceeded expectations. Our products align with the preferences of Chinese consumers: they feature a clear design language and cutting-edge technology. The Shanghai Auto Show is a significant milestone in our strategic journey: we aim to be the leading technology driver in the global automotive industry by 2035.”
Ralf Brandstätter, Volkswagen AG Group Board Member for China, added, “With our strong ‘In China, for China’ strategy, we are transforming our approach for Auto Shanghai. A testament to this is the arrival of the first models from the new Audi and Volkswagen brands, which were developed entirely in China and will debut soon. As Volkswagen Group China embarks on its largest ICV offensive, we will introduce 20 fully electric and electrified models by 2027, incorporating the latest technology and breakthrough autonomous systems. This positions us to expand into attractive new market segments and assume a leadership role in the ICV era.”
On 22 April, the evening before Auto Shanghai 2025, Volkswagen Group’s renowned brands will spotlight their innovative expertise with the next generation of intelligent, fully connected vehicles at the Volkswagen Group Night.
Audi will unveil its new all-electric model, based on the Premium Platform Electric (PPE), marking a world first. This groundbreaking vehicle offers exceptional performance, technological superiority, and impressive range and charging speeds. It boasts an emotional design, a next-generation infotainment system, and a formidable Level 2++ automated driving setup. It is designed to satisfy local market demands and reaffirms Audi’s prominent position in the Chinese premium segment.
Also making its world premiere is the first production model of the new Audi brand, engineered entirely in China to suit local tastes. Its blend of iconic Audi DNA with China-specific innovations helps Audi engage with tech-savvy consumers. This model features advanced L2++ driver assistance functions and ensures a safe, comfortable drive in both highway and urban environments. Set to launch later this year, it symbolises a new era in premium electromobility.
The Volkswagen brand will display three next-generation ICV concepts at Group Night, each harnessing innovative technology and a progressive design language that reflects the brand’s new China-focused DNA. Every model from the brand’s three joint ventures has its own distinct positioning and strategic approach:
FAW-Volkswagen’s first CMP-based A-Main notchback BEV concept, supported by the high-performance zonal E/E architecture known as CEA (China Electronic Architecture).
SAIC VOLKSWAGEN’s inaugural extended range (EREV) B-SUV concept.
Volkswagen Anhui’s first fully electric B-SUV concept.
Aligning with the “In China, for China” strategy, these three NEVs highlight the brand’s vision for the future of mobility, embracing advanced digital functions and intelligent driving assistance technologies tailored to Chinese drivers. During the public days, Volkswagen will also showcase over 20 models covering all major segments.
Additionally, during the evening event, Ducati will introduce the Multistrada V4 S to the Chinese mainland, while the Porsche 911 GT3, in response to the enthusiasm of Chinese sports car fans, makes a much-anticipated return. The Lamborghini Temerario and Ducati Panigale V4 S add further excitement to the presentation.
From 23 April, the Volkswagen Group and its brands will display more than 50 models at Auto Shanghai 2025, encompassing every key market segment. Highlights include the worldwide unveiling of the new Audi Q5L’s exterior design and the global debut of Porsche’s third model under its Heritage Design strategy. Porsche will also extend its product range in China with the Porsche 911 GT3 Touring and two additional new models.
As intelligent, connected vehicles redefine the automotive landscape, the Volkswagen Group is powering its transformation with “China Speed.” Under its “In China, for China” strategy, the Group is strengthening local development capabilities in e-mobility, digitalisation, and intelligent driving while accelerating regional decision-making and R&D processes. This approach allows Volkswagen to respond swiftly to pivotal market trends, harness growth opportunities, and capitalise on China’s innovative power. Strong localisation and a laser focus on customer needs will help Volkswagen Group China and its joint ventures maintain leadership in the country and uphold their status as the foremost international OEM in the region.
