Volkswagen ID Era, Evo and Aura concepts unveiled

Volkswagen’s ID sub-brand showcased three concepts on Tuesday: the Era and Evo SUVs and the Aura sedan. The carmaker has yet to publish specifics about each model’s powertrain but has confirmed that all three are new-energy vehicles (NEVs), which include plug-in hybrid, range-extender, and all-electric powertrains. VW plans to introduce 30 new vehicles in China by 2027, previewed by these ID concepts.

1. Era SUV previews VW’s first range-extender powertrain
2. Evo is a sibling to the ID Unyx SUV
3. Aura has a silhouette similar to that of the Volkswagen Bora sedan (Vento’s successor in Europe)

Volkswagen ID Era SUV concept

Up to 1,000km range

Developed in collaboration with Chinese automotive manufacturer SAIC, with which Volkswagen has a joint venture (JV), the ID Era concept previews the brand’s first range-extender powertrain. A petrol engine or generator is used solely to charge the battery, and with both fuel and battery at maximum levels, the vehicle can deliver a range of up to 1,000km. Inside, the VW ID Era SUV has a seven-seat setup similar to that of the Volkswagen Tayron (sold in international markets).

Volkswagen ID Evo SUV concept

800V electrical architecture

Volkswagen’s second SUV concept here, the ID Evo, is built by its sub-division based in Anhui, China. It is a sibling to the ID Unyx – a rebadged version of the Cupra Tavascan. However, the Evo concept swaps the Unyx’s rakish rear roofline with a more traditional SUV look. Also, Evo’s electric version packs an upgraded 800V electrical architecture (400V system used by the Unyx), a new zonal computer setup for a wide range of new digital services and quick over-the-air (OTA) software updates.

Volkswagen ID Aura sedan concept

First car based on CMP

The VW ID Aura sedan is a result of the brand’s JV with First Automotive Works (FAW), one of China’s oldest and largest automotive manufacturers. While it did not disclose the dimensions of the sedan, it has a similar silhouette to the VW Bora (successor to the Volkswagen Vento in Europe). The Aura concept will spawn the first car based on the new Compact Main Platform (CMP), which is specifically aimed at the Chinese market.

The production versions of the concept trio will feature a Level 2++ AI-based autonomous driving system. “In certain situations, cars will be able to drive fully autonomously, including overtaking and turning manoeuvres and independently merging into traffic, with the driver’s supervision,” Volkswagen said in a statement.