XPENG(US:XPEV) Zhong Guo Zheng Quan Bao·2025-08-15 04:28Core Viewpoint - XPeng Motors and Volkswagen Group have signed an expanded strategic cooperation agreement to develop an electronic and electrical architecture that will be integrated into both electric and internal combustion engine vehicles in the Chinese market [1][2]. Group 1: Expanded Cooperation Agreement - The expanded cooperation agreement signifies a milestone in the joint development of electronic and electrical architecture, which will now extend to Volkswagen's fuel and hybrid vehicle platforms in China starting from 2027 [1][2]. - The collaboration aims to enhance Volkswagen's global competitiveness by accelerating the development of software-defined vehicles and enabling rapid software iteration and remote upgrades [2]. - XPeng Motors' Chairman, He Xiaopeng, emphasized the importance of this agreement as a continuation of their commitment to technological innovation in the smart electric vehicle sector [2]. Group 2: Market Performance - Volkswagen Group's sales in China have seen a year-on-year decline of 2.3% in the first half of the year, reflecting increased competition in the Chinese automotive market [3]. - In the second quarter of 2025, Volkswagen delivered 669,700 vehicles in China, a 2.8% increase compared to the same period in 2024 [4]. Group 3: Local Development and Innovation - Volkswagen Group is committed to strengthening its local R&D resources and has established a new R&D and innovation center in Hefei, China, to better integrate into the local technology ecosystem [5][6]. - The company plans to launch 30 electric models in China by 2027, with the first locally developed models set to debut at the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show [6]. - Volkswagen aims to deliver over 2 million vehicles to the Chinese market in 2024, with nearly 90% being internal combustion engine models, while the expanded electronic architecture is expected to enhance operational efficiency and competitiveness [6].