On January 6, Xpeng Motors announced a strategic partnership with Volkswagen, signing a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on developing a nationwide ultra-fast charging network. Under the plan, the two companies will integrate their proprietary charging networks to establish China’s largest ultra-fast charging infrastructure. This network will include more than 20,000 charging terminals and cover 420 cities, providing extensive support for electric vehicle (EV) users.
In addition to combining networks, Xpeng and Volkswagen aim to create co-branded ultra-fast charging stations. The partnership also opens the door to further strategic collaborations, including technological innovation and the strengthening of a mutually beneficial alliance.
History of Cooperation Between Xpeng and Volkswagen
The partnership between Xpeng and Volkswagen extends beyond charging networks. On April 17, 2024, the two companies signed a strategic framework agreement to collaborate on electronic and electrical (E/E) architecture technology. This was followed by a joint development agreement announced on July 22, 2024, focusing on E/E architecture for Volkswagen’s CMP and MEB platforms in China.
From 2026 onward, all new pure electric models launched by Volkswagen in China will feature the advanced China Electronic Architecture (CEA), developed in collaboration with Xpeng and CARIAD China. This innovative system will reduce the number of control units by 30% and enable vehicles to deliver advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) capabilities.
To support this development, Xpeng and Volkswagen have established joint project teams in Guangzhou and Hefei, where engineers from both companies are working closely together. The first vehicle equipped with the jointly developed E/E architecture is scheduled for mass production by mid-2026.
Volkswagen’s plans for electric vehicles in China are ambitious. During its annual press conference in March 2024, the company announced the launch of 11 new electric models by 2027. Among these are two models co-developed with Xpeng—VW/Xpeng 1 and VW/Xpeng 2—which are expected to debut in 2026.
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