Volkswagen's new electric SUV in China

Launched last month, the new Volkswagen ID. Aura T6 is achieving a commercially satisfying launch, offering hope to the brand, which is going through a difficult period in China. While Volkswagen struggles to significantly increase its sales in the country, this new electric SUV could give it a boost. Born from its collaboration with FAW, this ID. Aura T6 has already accumulated several tens of thousands of orders, even though it was only launched a month ago.

Volkswagen's challenges in China

Volkswagen is going through a difficult period on the Chinese market. The German company has seen its sales decline in recent years, and its market shares have significantly contracted in favor of local players. To try to reverse the trend, Volkswagen has entered into partnerships with several Chinese manufacturers. Several joint ventures have thus been created, including SAIC-Volkswagen and FAW-Volkswagen. However, even in this case, the miracle is still waiting.

ID. Aura T6's strong start

Perhaps it is finally here. Its name: ID. Aura T6. It is a 100% electric SUV 4.81 m long. That is nearly 20 cm longer than the new ID. Tiguan. This one is currently only marketed in the Middle Kingdom, and only since September 20th. In just over a month, the model has already recorded more than 33,000 orders. The brand claims it is the fastest commercial launch it has ever experienced in Asia. Even better, according to it, 80% of the orders were placed by buyers who had never owned a Volkswagen.

Technical specifications of ID. Aura T6

On paper, this ID. Aura T6 is not so far from the new ID. Tiguan. If it is based on a specific architecture, the figures visible on the technical sheet are quite close. The only available engine, consisting of a single electric motor, develops 231 horsepower. The various batteries, all LFP and supplied by the giant CATL, allow ranges between 540 and 660 kilometers (in CLTC cycle). That is a range going from 440 to 540 kilometers, according to our WLTP norm. Nothing extravagant therefore, knowing that the ID. Tiguan claims a maximum range of 600 kilometers, and that a long-range version will allow to reach 700 kilometers.

Advanced driving technologies

On the other hand, the ID. Aura T6 is strong in terms of on-board technologies. The various driving assistance systems work thanks to a LiDAR (optional) and 25 sensors. The whole allows autonomous driving in town as on the motorway. A crucial point, Chinese customers being particularly fond of these systems.

Affordable pricing strategy

Then there are the prices. As always, very accessible. The range starts at 129,900 yuan, approximately 17,300 euros. The most expensive version peaks at 166,900 yuan (22,300 euros).