SAIC VW unveils first EREV concept ID. ERA

SAIC Volkswagen, China's oldest extant joint venture, has unveiled its first full-size extended-range electric vehicle SUV concept, the ID. ERA, at Auto Shanghai 2025, signaling the German automaker's push to diversify its electrification strategy.

The unveiling comes as overseas automakers ramp up localized innovation to remain competitive in a fast-changing Chinese EV market dominated by domestic brands.

SAIC Volkswagen said the model is the result of "German standards and China speed".

The ID. ERA, the first EREV model in Volkswagen's ID. lineup, has a comprehensive range of over 1,000 kilometers and a pure electric range of more than 350 kilometers under China's CLTC testing standard.

Powered by the EA211 EVO II engine—one of the most efficient combustion engines in the segment—the concept is engineered for minimal noise and vibration, delivering NVH performance comparable to pure electric vehicles.

The model features an advanced dual-chamber air suspension system with continuously variable damping, and is the first in its segment to introduce active rear-wheel steering.

It is also equipped with an advanced driver assistance system developed in partnership with local Chinese company Momenta.

Volkswagen has emphasized a unified body design in the ID. ERA, integrating structure with aesthetic elements to reflect a distinct, forward-looking design language.

The company describes the styling as "majestic, harmonious, and aspirational," aligning with its effort to appeal to premium and tech-savvy consumers in China.