Volkswagen, FAW eye ambitious product expansion to tap Chinese EV market

CHANGCHUN - Volkswagen Group and FAW Group have signed a new agreement on a roadmap for future models in the Chinese FAW-Volkswagen joint venture, in an ambitious product expansion plan to tap into China's booming electric vehicle market.

From 2026, FAW-Volkswagen plans to introduce 10 new Volkswagen-brand models and one Jetta-brand model tailored for the Chinese market, Volkswagen Group China said on Monday.

There will be 10 new energy vehicles (NEVs) -- six pure electric models (BEVs), two plug-in hybrid models (PHEVs) and two range-extenders (EREVs) -- and just one fuel-powered model.

The Jetta brand will launch its first all-electric model by 2026 as part of a strategic pivot to tap into China's fast-growing entry-level BEV market.

Volkswagen Group is powering its transformation in China by advancing its capabilities in e-mobility, digitalization and autonomous driving.

Future products will have upgraded intelligent features, such as advanced digital services and Advanced Driving Assistance System (ADAS) functions, according to Volkswagen Group China.

Until 2030, the brands of FAW-Volkswagen will introduce over 20 all-new models to the market, according to Volkswagen Group.

"Our enduring partnership with FAW is a strong pillar of our success in China. Aligned with our 'In China, for China' strategy, we are further advancing FAW-Volkswagen's product portfolio covering all powertrains, with a strong focus on NEVs, including BEVs, PHEVs and EREVs, to meet evolving customer needs," said Ralf Brandstaetter, chairman and CEO of Volkswagen Group China.

This planning ties into Volkswagen Group's strategic product offensive in China. From 2025 to 2027, the group will roll out about 40 new models, more than half of which will be NEVs.

"We will integrate global expertise with local technology to foster FAW-Volkswagen's long-term sustainable growth, enabling the company to deliver more competitive, market-driven and intelligent mobility solutions that cater to the evolving needs of Chinese customers," said Chen Bin, general manager of FAW-Volkswagen.

In 2024, Volkswagen Group China and its Chinese joint venture partners delivered around 2.93 million vehicles to customers in the Chinese mainland and Hong Kong.

FAW-Volkswagen operates three brands: Volkswagen, Audi and Jetta. It currently runs five production bases in China, located in Changchun, Foshan, Chengdu, Qingdao and Tianjin.