Volkswagen plans to market Chinese models in Europe

Volkswagen is reportedly preparing to sell some of its Chinese-made vehicles in Europe. The company has had success with its new affordable electric cars, but some of its factories are running slowly due to lower demand.

Strategy to cut costs and boost competitiveness

According to the British media Autocar, Volkswagen wants to reduce development costs and offer more competitive cars by using its Chinese models. This idea is not new, as the company had previously mentioned the possibility of selling some Chinese models in Europe, possibly even manufacturing them there in the future.

Volkswagen leader explains the strategy

Thomas Schäfer, the head of Volkswagen, discussed this strategy during the Paris Motor Show. He highlighted that Volkswagen's main advantage in China is its ability to reduce vehicle costs in both materials and engineering. The company has created vehicles that are cost-effective in China and now wants to bring them to Europe.

Exporting Chinese models to other regions

Volkswagen has already started exporting some Chinese-developed vehicles to other countries. These exports target regions like the South, Australia, and the Middle East, where importing from China is logistically easier. This approach could eventually be applied to Europe as well.

Focus on adding models, not replacing existing ones

Volkswagen’s goal is not to replace its European models with imported ones but to add new cars that can meet different customer needs. Some Chinese models are larger than what many European buyers expect, so the company may test several vehicles before deciding which ones to market long-term.

Potential candidate for European launch

One possible model that could be introduced in Europe is the new Volkswagen ID. Unyx 09, though this has not been officially confirmed yet.