Auto Market China
Porsche is looking for local suppliers, and VW is reportedly abandoning the MEB platform

From Henrik Bork* 4 min Reading Time

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After losing market share, Porsche is seeking new local suppliers. At the same time, VW is reportedly planning to abandon its MEB platform in China prematurely and replace it with an electric platform developed by Xpeng.

VW is aiming for a strategic shift in its electrification efforts in China, reportedly driven by disappointing sales figures for the "ID UNYX," Volkswagen's first EV developed specifically for the Chinese market.(Bild:  Volkswagen AG)
VW is aiming for a strategic shift in its electrification efforts in China, reportedly driven by disappointing sales figures for the "ID UNYX," Volkswagen's first EV developed specifically for the Chinese market.
(Bild: Volkswagen AG)

Barbara Frenkel, Porsche's head of procurement, revealed in an interview with Chinese journalists that the company is actively seeking new suppliers and partnerships in China. “I am in contact with Chinese suppliers in the areas of batteries, ADAS, connectivity, and entertainment systems,” multiple media outlets quoted the executive board member of the sports car manufacturer.

 This move aligns Porsche with Volkswagen’s strategy, which involves collaborations with Chinese EV start-up Xpeng and software provider Horizon. These partnerships aim to accelerate the adaptation of future models to meet the expectations for modern technology and price preferences of Chinese car buyers.