At the China International Import Expo in Shanghai, CGTN reporter Wang Tianyu sat down with Volkswagen CEO Oliver Blume to discuss VW's long-standing presence in the Chinese market and its roadmap for the electric vehicle race.
As one of the earliest international automakers on the ground, Volkswagen Group has built strong ties with local partners and established a footprint that resonates across cities and rural centers alike. Today, Blume says, the company faces a dual challenge: fierce competition from homegrown EV makers and opportunities from joint ventures with Chinese partners.
Blume explained that staying ahead means blending global tech leadership with agile, market-specific models. "We have strong competitors and great partners in China," he noted, highlighting investments in R&D centers and a lineup tailored for local tastes and regulations.
Looking ahead, Volkswagen plans to roll out next-gen EVs that will hit the market faster and at more accessible price points. Blume also teased upcoming digital services designed to enhance user experience, from smart charging solutions to connected-car features fine-tuned for Chinese cities.
With the EV landscape evolving by the minute, Volkswagen's playbook centers on collaboration, innovation, and a deep understanding of the Chinese consumer. As Blume puts it, "Our future in China depends on partnering, innovating, and delivering real value—far beyond horsepower and range."
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VW CEO: We have strong competitors and great partners in China
cgtn.com
