Volkswagen has begun pre-sales of its ID. ERA 9X sport utility vehicle in China, signaling a strategic shift toward extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) technology in response to evolving market demand.
The model was introduced by the automaker’s Chinese joint venture, SAIC-Volkswagen, during an event on Monday. It is Volkswagen’s first EREV offering, a notable move given the company’s previous criticism of the technology as outdated and environmentally unfriendly.
The ID. ERA 9X is available in three variants—Pro, Max and Ultra—priced at 329,800 yuan ($47,720), 359,800 yuan and 379,800 yuan during the pre-sales phase. The vehicle is scheduled for official launch at the Beijing Auto Show on April 25, where final pricing is expected to be announced and may be adjusted downward.
The shift comes as Volkswagen responds to strong sales momentum from Chinese competitors such as Li Auto, which have popularized extended-range systems among local consumers.
The large six-seat SUV is equipped with a newly developed EA211 1.5-liter turbocharged range extender, with the first unit having rolled off the production line on March 3. The vehicle measures 5,207 mm in length, 1,997 mm in width and 1,810 mm in height, with a 3,070 mm wheelbase, making it the largest model globally under the Volkswagen brand.
The ID. ERA 9X features a 65.2-kWh battery supplied by CATL, delivering a CLTC-rated pure electric range of up to 406 kilometers. Combined with its fuel-based range extender, the SUV offers a total driving range exceeding 1,600 kilometers, targeting consumers concerned about range limitations.
Built on an 800-volt high-voltage silicon carbide platform, the vehicle supports fast charging, enabling the battery to charge from 10% to 80% in approximately 16.5 minutes. It uses a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system with a maximum output of 380 kW and peak torque of 660 Nm, allowing acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds.
Additional features include active rear-wheel steering, delivering a turning radius of 4.85 meters, and a dual-chamber air suspension system with 150 mm of adjustable travel. The vehicle is also equipped with an advanced driver assistance system developed jointly with Chinese startup Momenta.
The interior includes a 15.6-inch dual-screen setup and a 21.4-inch foldable rear display, reflecting a focus on in-cabin digital experience.
The launch of the ID. ERA 9X follows Volkswagen’s earlier move to introduce locally developed electric models in China, including the ID. UNYX 08 created in partnership with Xpeng, as the German automaker deepens its localization strategy in the world’s largest electric vehicle market.