Ultra-fast charging coming to China thanks to XPeng and Volkswagen

In 2023, Volkswagen purchased a 4.99% stake in XPeng for approximately $700 million, with the intention of collaborating on the development of two Volkswagen-branded electric vehicles by 2026. Since then, the two brands developed a new architecture for smart electric vehicles that would allow the iconic German brand to provide competitive products on the Chinese market. Now, they are teaming up for a fast charging infrastructure to support EVs from both brands in China.

According to Reuters, a joint statement that was issued yesterday reveals that

"The companies have signed a memorandum of understanding to open their respective fast-charging networks to each other's customers, which comprise more than 20,000 charging piles across 420 cities in China."

Additionally, it should be mentioned that Volkswagen and XPeng are also considering building more co-branded ultra-fast charging stations in the near future.

In the future, Volkswagen and XPeng are planning even more strategic collaborations. However, there is no additional information regarding their future projects available at this time. Founded a decade ago, XPeng manufactured over 190,000 vehicles last year. Back in 2023, Volkswagen had managed to sell over 770,000 EVs worldwide. Following a decline in 2024, this year could potentially be more favorable for the German brand, as it continues its expansion into China.

With a history of 87 years, Volkswagen has managed to come up with more than just a few iconic vehicles. Those interested in this company's past who are in a hurry (just 42 pages, despite the book's title) can grab The Complete History of Volkswagen: The Moments that Shaped the German Car Brand for just $0.99 (Kindle version only).