Volkswagen (VW) and Xpeng are broadening their technical collaboration to integrate their E/E (Electric/Electronic) architecture into a wider range of electric vehicles. Beginning in 2026, this advanced architecture will be incorporated not only into VW’s China-specific CMP (China Modular Platform) but also into all VW brand models utilizing the global MEB (Modular Electric Drive) platform tailored for the Chinese market.
Initially announced in July 2023 and finalized in February 2024, the original agreement focused on incorporating the E/E architecture into at least four electric models based on the CMP, developed at VW’s eMobility Development Centre (VCTC) in China, independent of Xpeng. The expanded agreement now includes all VW vehicles based on the global MEB platform, with CMP serving as an evolved version of MEB, ensuring compatibility.
VW has renamed the E/E architecture to CEA, standing for ‘China Electronic Architecture.’ The new system will debut in CMP-based vehicles in 2026 and will also be retrofitted into MEB-based models. This integration aims to simplify system complexity, enhance cost efficiency, and accelerate the digitalization of VW’s model range in China. The CEA will feature three ‘regional controllers’ to replace multiple control units, potentially reducing control units by 30%, lowering development costs, and improving performance.
Ralf Brandstätter, Member of the Board of Management of VW China, commented, “The rapid progress in the close cooperation between the Volkswagen Group and XPENG underlines the great potential of this partnership. With the joint development of a highly modern E/E Architecture, in which both partners contribute their technological expertise, we are now taking the next step together.”
He Xiaopeng, Chairman and CEO of Xpeng, added, “The E/E Architecture collaboration marks the third major milestone we achieved within a year in our long-term strategic partnership with Volkswagen Group. With the trust built up between Volkswagen and XPENG as well as the dedication by engineers from both parties, we have been executing our joint projects swiftly and realized significant synergies.”
This expanded cooperation signifies a significant advancement in VW’s strategy to cater to the Chinese market and emphasizes the evolving technological collaboration between the two automakers.
