(Berlin) Automakers Volkswagen and Mercedes unveiled two new high-end 100% electric models in China on Monday as part of their offensive against Tesla and Chinese companies in e-mobility.
European number 1 Volkswagen has presented its new sedan ID.7, “first electric model for the upper middle classes”, while Mercedes has unveiled the “first fully electric model” of the Maybach limousine brand, according to separate press releases.
These presentations were made in China, on the occasion of the Shanghai International Motor Show, a major event in the sector which begins on Tuesday. As the world’s largest automobile market, China is also the one where electric sales are growing the fastest, arousing the desire of all manufacturers.
The ID.7 will replace the Passat range and will have a range of “up to 700 kilometres”, detailed Volkswagen. With a width of almost 5 meters, it will be available on the Chinese and European markets “from this year”, and in North America “in 2024”, with a price “of 60,000 euros (88,000 $) minimum”.
Mercedes has not detailed a release date or price for its new Maybach model, a symbol of luxury and prestige from the Stuttgart manufacturer. The group promises an “exceptional driving experience” and a “cocooning effect” for passengers, between “massaging seat”, “ventilation” and even a fridge available.
“With these new models, Volkswagen and Mercedes want to show that they are competitive in the fields of the future, in particular electric mobility”, explains Stefan Bratzel, director Center of Automotive Management, interviewed by AFP.
China currently accounts for 40% of Volkswagen’s sales, which sells the vast majority of traditional engines there, having secured 16% of the automotive market share in the country last year.
But in the electric segment, the picture is less bright: “German manufacturers are still developing below average compared to the competition,” underlines Mr. Bratzel.
According to the figures cited by the expert, the VW group obtained only 3.1% of the electric market in China last year, far behind the Chinese brands BYD (18%), SAIC (including Wuling) with 11.9% and the American Tesla with (8.7%).