VW and Xpeng introduce joint architecture to more models

When the original deal was concluded in April, it was still stated that the E/E architecture from the cooperation would be integrated into VW electric cars based on the China Main Platform (CMP) – in at least four models from 2026. The CMP (not to be confused with the Common Modular Platform from Stellantis) was developed at VW’s new eMobility Development Centre VCTC in China – independently of Xpeng. As part of the original agreement between the two car manufacturers to develop electric cars, two mid-range models from VW are also to be based on Xpeng developments. The partnership was announced in July 2023 and finalised in February 2024.

VW now refers to the E/E architecture as the CEA, the ‘China Electronic Architecture.’ This is to be installed in the China electric vehicles based on the CMP platform from 2026, but also in the cars that are still based on the MEB platform – as CMP is a further development of MEB, compatibility should certainly be possible. VE developers from the VCTC, Cariad China and Xpeng were involved in the development of the CEA.

According to VW, using just one E/E architecture should reduce system complexity, improve cost efficiency and accelerate the digitalisation of the model range in China – ‘and thus drive the Group’s transformation into the age of intelligently networked vehicles’. The new architecture should not only reduce costs, but also enable a new generation of autonomous driving assistants and ‘smart cockpit software functions’.

Three ‘regional controllers’ are to replace several control units. There is talk of 30 per cent fewer control units, which should help to reduce costs. VW also promises that the complexity of the operating system (and therefore the development costs) will be lower and performance higher.

“The rapid progress in the close cooperation between the Volkswagen Group and XPENG underlines the great potential of this partnership,” said Ralf Brandstätter, Member of the Board of Management of VW China. “With the joint development of a highly modern E/E Architecture, in which both partners contribute their technological expertise, we are now taking the next step together. For us at Volkswagen, this project is also the next milestone in the consistent implementation of our “in China for China” strategy – with a clear focus on Chinese customers and technological innovations. From 2026, all all-electric vehicles of the Volkswagen brand in China will be equipped with this very powerful and efficient architecture.”

“The E/E Architecture collaboration marks the third major milestone we achieved within a year in our long-term strategic partnership with Volkswagen Group. With the trust built up between Volkswagen and XPENG as well as the dedication by engineers from both parties, we have been executing our joint projects swiftly and realized significant synergies. I look forward to broadening our technology collaboration and win-win strategic partnership,” said He Xiaopeng, Chairman and CEO of Xpeng.

volkswagengroupchina.com.cn (in Chinese), xiaopeng.com