2024 Cupra Tavascan electric SUV to be built in China

The upcoming 2024 Cupra Tavascan electric SUV will be built in China, rather than Europe.

A statement provided to Automotive News Europe by the Volkswagen Group said it would be produced at one of its joint-venture factories in China's Anhui province.

"The Anhui factory was the plant with the right capacity and technology at the time of production planning," said Volkswagen, adding it has no plans to export other Chinese-built vehicles.

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This means the Tavascan, which is based on the dedicated MEB electric vehicle platform, will be exported out of China to markets such as Europe and Australia. It is expected to launch here in 2025.

Volkswagen is said to be currently working on its five-year financial plan to determine where its new models will be produced and how much money to invest in these factories, with the decisions reportedly affected by its delayed software platforms.

Volkswagen's software division, Cariad, has faced difficulty in developing the Group's upcoming technology platform, which has delayed its vehicle launches, including the upcoming Porsche Macan EV.

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Currently, a large proportion of electric vehicles sold in Australia are manufactured in the world's most populous nation, including; the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y, BYD Atto 3, MG ZS EV, Polestar 2, Volvo XC40 and C40, and BMW iX3.

While Cupra has kept the Tavascan's technical details under wraps, the 2019 concept was said to have a 77kWh battery pack and a dual-motor powertrain, with a 450-kilometre driving range.

Although it will be closely related to the Volkswagen ID.4, the Skoda Enyaq and both vehicles' coupe-styled derivatives, its exterior design will be designed in-house by the Spanish brand.

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Cupra Born

This is contrary to Cupra's first EV, the Born hatchback, which will arrive in Australia in March or April with components shared with the Volkswagen ID.3, including its body pressings, drivetrains, and chassis technology.

Inside, the Tavascan will adopt the brand's latest design language, with a 'V shape spine' curved instrument panel, a landscape-orientated centre console, and recycled materials.

The 2024 Cupra Tavascan is expected to debut in the next 12 to 18 months, ahead of its Australian launch in 2025.