ID Code concept sets out a fresh design direction for VW’s electric cars and was revealed at the Beijing show
GREG KABLE
Volkswagen has revealed a radical shift in design for its future electric models with the unveiling of the ID Code concept at the 2024 Beijing motor show.
Sporting a sleek new design language conceived exclusively for Chinese-market cars, the SUV-coupé concept previews a new range of EVs that are being developed in partnership with Volkswagen’s various joint-venture partners in China, according to Volkswagen CEO Thomas Schäfer.
The ID Code is based on an unspecified platform architecture that is claimed to accommodate single-motor rear-wheel drive and dual-motor four-wheel drive, as well as varying battery capacities and ranges. The concept itself will evolve into a flagship model for Volkswagen’s newly announced ID UX Chinese EV family (see box, below).
Departing dramatically in styling and packaging from today’s ID-badged models, the new four-seater adopts a distinctive front end with flamboyant-looking headlight designs and an illuminated VW logo – features that, says Volkswagen, resonate well with younger buyers of electric cars in China.
Volkswagen design boss Andreas Mindt says efforts have been made to provide the new concept with human-like qualities through light animations, including a welcome function for the headlights that mimics the blinking of eyes.
He told Autocar: “We wanted to give the ID Code a warm human-like touch. It should provide visual attachment the moment you see it. It is not robotic and cold.”
As part of Volkswagen’s efforts to match its Chinese competitors on digital functionality, an avatar appears on the driver’s side window when you approach with the key, providing information about the traffic and weather conditions. This feature is part of what Volkswagen calls its Smart Window Concept.
Along with its progressive exterior styling, the 4800mm-long concept also previews a new driver-centric interior design, based around AI-supported infotainment functions and advanced level-four autonomous driving capability – the latter function signalled by lidar units that light up the exterior of the car when it’s driving itself.
Although the new design language has been conceived for models to be sold in China, insiders at Volkswagen’s design headquarters in Wolfsburg, Germany, say discussions are already under way about how it may influence future models planned for sal
