Volkswagen Considers Bringing China-Specific EV to European Market

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Volkswagen Group is reportedly considering bringing electric vehicles developed specifically for the Chinese market to Europe. This move is being evaluated as part of a strategy to remain competitive, accelerate product development, and utilise unused production capacity at European facilities. According to a report by Carnewschina on Friday local time, CEO Oliver Blume stated that Volkswagen is open to the possibility of producing the latest generation models, currently being developed specifically for the Chinese market, in Europe, provided those products are deemed suitable for local consumer needs. “This year, we are enhancing the development of the CMP platform, which is planned to launch in China in 2027. This work must be completed first, after which we can consider options in Europe and evaluate which products are appropriate,” Blume said. CMP, or Compact Main Platform, is a new platform developed jointly with XPeng to support Volkswagen’s latest generation vehicle line in China. Blume added that Volkswagen is open to sharing European factory capacity with Chinese car manufacturers. He described joint production as a possible way to reduce unused capacity and lower costs. Volkswagen reported a 14% decline in first-quarter operating profit to €2.5 billion on 30 April. The group is under pressure from weak demand in China and the US, as well as increasing competition from Chinese car manufacturers in Europe.