VW's ID. UNYX gears up for pivotal 2026

Volkswagen's ID. UNYX brand is preparing for a decisive year in 2026, with four model launches that executives said manifest the best of German engineering and Chinese local innovation and a significant expansion in its dealership network.

Born in 2024, the brand is seen as an effort by the German carmaker to make a mark in the fast-evolving Chinese market, besides its joint ventures with FAW and SAIC.

For quite a while, the 06 has been the brand's only model available, resulting in its low sales number and awareness in a market that sees hundreds of new models popping up each year.

But that will soon change. The first highlight of the four forthcoming models is a B-segment SUV, balled the ID. UNYX 08, which is set to be unveiled in March and launched in April.

Stefan Timmermann, CEO of Volkswagen (Anhui) Digital Sales and Services Co, said the model has already impressed him during early test drives, calling the SUV a perfect example of German engineering precision with locally driven innovation.

Also, collaboration with domestic EV maker XPeng has influenced certain technology areas, including the model's intelligent cockpit systems, but Volkswagen maintains control over core driving and safety systems.

"Our cooperation has evolved from learning to deep co-creation,"Timmermann said, stressing that Volkswagen's products retain their unique engineering DNA.

"Safety, quality and reliability are non-negotiable," said Timmermann, noting that these attributes distinguish Volkswagen's offerings as local competitors push rapid releases.

Timmermann said engineers have implemented solutions such as airbags within hidden door handles to ensure doors can open during power failures, alongside rigorous battery, chassis and collision testing.

In terms of design, the 08 features a wolf emblem, which is inspired by Wolfsburg, Germany, where Volkswagen AG is headquartered.

"It is really progressive in Volkswagen's design language and serves as a key design differentiator," said Chen Jing, CMO of Volkswagen (Anhui) Digital Sales and Services Co.

Chen said the emblem, which features a wolf face and a fortress, is the result of long-term discussions between German and Chinese teams to resonate with the model's target segment, dubbed "life explorers and enjoyers".

He said marketing efforts will leverage the wolf motif across media, showrooms and experiential events to deepen emotional engagement with customers.

Emotional connection is one of the three pillars of the brand's marketing campaigns this year, with the others being clear brand positioning and amplified brand presence.

The 08 will be followed by the ID. UNYX 06's 2026 version, which will feature upgraded batteries and a new China-specific electronic architecture. Its sibling, the ID. UNYX 07, is expected to launch around May.

Like the 06, the 07 is built on the same MEB platform, and it will debut with the China Electronic Architecture. The brand will also unveil a sedan later this year.

With the arrival of new models, the ID. UNYX brand plans to expand its sales network from around 120 outlets to 200 by the end of 2026, including a new experience center.