SAIC Volkswagen has launched the ID. ERA 5X, a compact electric SUV that is the first production Volkswagen to use the China Main Platform and the electrical architecture co-developed with Xpeng. It is priced from RMB 119,900 (approx. US$17,600), with a limited-time offer cutting RMB 20,000 from every version.
The 5X went on sale in China on 12 November in four versions, Pro, Pro+, Max and Ultra, with suggested prices of RMB 119,900 to 159,900 (approx. US$17,600 to 23,500). Under the launch offer, they cost RMB 99,900, 115,900, 127,900 and 139,900 respectively.
It is the first fully electric SUV in SAIC Volkswagen’s ID. ERA family, which also includes the ID. ERA 9X and 8X extended-range SUVs and the ID. ERA 5S plug-in hybrid sedan.
Platform and powertrain
The 5X is built on the China Main Platform (CMP) and uses the China Electronic Architecture (CEA), which Volkswagen developed with Xpeng.
It measures 4,560mm long, 1,896mm wide and 1,630mm tall, on a 2,815mm wheelbase, and seats five.
A single 155kW motor drives the car, with a choice of 45.8kWh or 58.5kWh lithium iron phosphate batteries, supplied by CATL according to earlier government filings. CLTC range is 415km or 520km.
Technology
Higher versions have a 192-line lidar and a Horizon Robotics Journey 6H chip running Carizon’s driver-assistance system. Carizon is Volkswagen’s joint venture with Horizon Robotics. The system offers navigation assistance on highways and city streets, parking-space-to-parking-space assistance and memory parking.
Inside, a 15.6-inch central touchscreen and 10.25-inch digital instrument display run on a 4nm MediaTek 8676 chip. Seven airbags are standard, and higher versions get heated and ventilated front seats.
| Version | Suggested price | Launch offer |
|---|---|---|
| Pro | RMB 119,900 | RMB 99,900 |
| Pro+ | RMB 135,900 | RMB 115,900 |
| Max | RMB 147,900 | RMB 127,900 |
| Ultra | RMB 159,900 | RMB 139,900 |
The launch follows Volkswagen’s decision to pause development of the electric ID. Golf to cut costs.
