VW China introduces over 20 new energy vehicle models by end of 2018

Volkswagen is planning to release over 20 new energy automobile models in China by the end of 2018, the National Business Daily reported today, quoting a statement made by VW China President and CEO Jochem Heizmann. The majority of these vehicles will be manufactured in China. According to Dr. Heizmann, new energy vehicles will play an important part in VW's global strategy. Dr. Heizmann also believes that China will lead the global new energy vehicle industry.

Among the 20 plus new energy models VW has in the works include a variety of compact cars, fullsize luxury sedans and SUVs. Both plug-in hybrid and pure electric models will be released. Production of the VW's first domestically-manufactured plug-in hybrid model, the Audi A6L (pictured), will begin in 2016. It will be followed soon after by a new VW brand midsize, which is rumored to be the Shanghai VW Lamando.

The new VW e-Up! will make be displayed at this month's Guangzhou Automobile Exhibition. The manufacturer has plans to release a batch of new energy vehicles in China next year, including the Golf EV, Golf GTE and A3 e-tron.

According to Dr. Heizmann, China is on the verge of new energy vehicle revolution. The models that VW are considering to bring over are new energy versions of the Passat, Magotan, Sagitar, Touareg, Audi A8 and Audi Q7.