VW and Xpeng team up on the ID. Unyx 09
Words: Kyle Cassidy
Volkswagen Group has previewed a new electric sedan ahead of the 2026 Beijing Auto Show, unveiling the ID. Unyx 09 as part of its renewed push into the Chinese market. While we’ll never see this one here, it’s an interesting looking beast.
Developed in collaboration with XPeng, the ID. Unyx 09 is the latest product from the Volkswagen Anhui joint venture, which was established with JAC Motors. The partnership has already produced the ID. Unyx 08 SUV, and the new sedan continues a design and development approach tailored specifically for China.
Visually, the ID. Unyx 09 marks a clear departure from Volkswagen’s global sedan line-up. It features an, er, interesting front-end design with split headlights, slim LED daytime running lights and an illuminated Volkswagen badge. A distinctive black trim element runs across the front bumper and into the sides of the car, while contrasting black A-pillars, roof and mirrors add to its striking appearance.
Although full technical details have yet to be confirmed, the sedan appears to ride on large 21-inch wheels fitted with Pirelli P Zero tyres and Brembo brakes, hinting at a performance-oriented edge. Its sleek, fastback-inspired profile suggests a focus on aerodynamics, though it retains a conventional boot rather than a liftback design.
At around five metres in length, the ID. Unyx 09 is slightly larger than the global ID.7, positioning it as a potential flagship sedan for Volkswagen in China. Its styling is also notably sharper and less rounded than its European counterpart.
The model forms part of Volkswagen’s broader strategy to regain momentum in China, where competition from local EV brands has intensified. The company has outlined plans for a major product offensive, with more than 20 electrified models set to launch this year and around 30 new vehicles expected by the end of the decade.
While the ID. Unyx 09 is unlikely to be offered outside China, it highlights Volkswagen’s willingness to take greater design and development risks in key markets. It also underscores the growing importance of partnerships with local technology firms such as XPeng as global brands adapt to rapidly evolving EV demand in the region.
