Volkswagen Unveils First Range-Extended Electric SUV, ID. Era 9X, in China

Volkswagen has officially launched its first all-electric SUV equipped with a range-extender system—the ID. Era 9X—filling a critical gap in its electrification strategy. Developed by Volkswagen’s joint venture with SAIC Motor in China, the vehicle is a production version of the ID. Era concept unveiled last year. Positioned as a full-size, six-seater SUV, it measures over 5.2 meters in length and features a 3,070-millimeter wheelbase, making it one of the largest vehicles Volkswagen has ever produced. The standout feature is its range-extender powertrain: a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine (from the EA211 series) functions solely as a generator and does not drive the wheels. It pairs with either a single motor (295 hp) or a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup (510 hp). The vehicle offers two battery options—51.1 kWh or 65.2 kWh—delivering a maximum CLTC-rated all-electric range exceeding 400 kilometers and an estimated total driving range surpassing 965 kilometers. Although the ID. Era 9X is currently available only in the Chinese market, Volkswagen is considering introducing its range-extender technology to Europe and North America. Additionally, the company’s new sub-brand, Scout, will launch off-road vehicles utilizing a similar range-extender solution.