Volkswagen CEO Dismisses Range-Extender Tech as "Pointless" in Europe, Sticks with Plug-in Hybrids

Thomas Schäfer, CEO of Volkswagen Passenger Cars, recently stated that range-extended electric vehicle (REEV) technology "makes no sense" in Europe, emphasizing that Volkswagen will continue focusing on plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). He argued that range-extender systems are better suited to China’s congested, low-speed driving conditions, whereas Europe’s more dynamic driving environments and stringent carbon emission regulations diminish their advantages. Additionally, he noted that range-extender technology is costly and mechanically complex; combining a large battery with an internal combustion engine actually reduces overall efficiency. Currently, Volkswagen’s mainstream PHEV models offer around 150 km of all-electric range, which the company considers sufficient to meet customer needs. Although SAIC Volkswagen has launched a range-extended version of the ID. Era in China, and some automakers like Leapmotor and Renault are investing in range-extender technology, Volkswagen has no plans to adopt this approach in Europe in the near term.