SAIC Volkswagen Unveils Dual Hybrid Strategy at Beijing Auto Show; ID. ERA 9X Launches, Passat ePro and Tiguan L ePro Debut

On April 24, 2026, the 19th Beijing International Automotive Exhibition opened at the China National Convention Center. SAIC Volkswagen showcased its full lineup—including the ID. ERA 9X, Tiguan L ePro, and Passat ePro—at Booth A105 in Hall A1, and officially unveiled its “Dual Hybrid Strategy.” The ID. ERA 9X, the first model in the ID. ERA series, made its debut on the opening day of the auto show and went on sale the following day (April 25). Equipped with nine advanced technologies—including the EA211 premium range extender, Xingyun intelligent driving assistance system, Xingyun intelligent chassis, Smart Surface Magic Screen, and Dynamic Zero-Gravity Seats—the vehicle claims to offer “full specifications from entry-level.” Its range-extending system has been optimized to address issues such as high fuel consumption under low battery conditions and abrupt power delivery. It also debuts globally the Momenta R7 reinforcement learning world model to enhance intelligent driving capabilities. The Dual Hybrid Strategy encompasses two technological pathways: one represented by the range-extended ID. ERA 9X, and the other by the plug-in hybrid Passat ePro and Tiguan L ePro. Both ePro models feature the new-generation “Golden Super Hybrid” technology, powered by an EA211 1.5T turbocharged engine (equipped with VTG variable geometry turbocharger) paired with a TQ251 transmission, supporting seamless switching among four driving modes and three energy management modes. The Passat ePro achieves a CLTC combined range of 1,468 km, while the Tiguan L ePro reaches 1,423 km. Both models are scheduled to launch by the end of May 2026. In the internal combustion engine segment, the 2026 Tiguan L Pro, Passat Pro, and Teramont Pro are equipped with the enhanced IQ. Pilot advanced driver-assistance system featuring end-to-end highway NOA (Navigate on Autopilot) functionality. Additionally, models such as the ID.3, Lavida Pro, Lamando L, and Viloran were also displayed at the exhibition. Interactive experience zones like the “Cloud Habitat Intelligent Cabin Library” and the “Xingyun Intelligent Mobility Lab” were set up at the booth. In terms of market performance, SAIC Volkswagen sold over one million vehicles in 2025 and maintained its position as the top-selling joint-venture single brand in Q1 2026. The Passat family ranked No. 1 in B-segment retail sales, while the Tiguan and Lavida families led their respective segments. In 2026, SAIC Volkswagen plans to launch three new energy vehicle models covering range-extended, plug-in hybrid, and pure electric platforms, while expanding its sales network through over 1,000 dealerships and pop-up stores in shopping malls.