German president tests Volkswagen electric vehicle developed with Chinese partners

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier tested an electric vehicle from Volkswagen in Hefei, China, developed with local partners. The visit highlighted Volkswagen's technological alliances with Chinese firms like Xpeng and Horizon Robotics for electronic components and automated driving systems. Steinmeier experienced advanced parking technology and toured the Volkswagen China Technology Company, which focuses on electric vehicle development. This visit is part of a six-day state trip, the first by a German president to China since 2018, amid rising tensions in trade relations. Volkswagen aims to strengthen its position in the Chinese electric vehicle market, facing increased competition from local brands.