While 3.5 is rolling out, Volkswagen China is already beta testing ID.S 4.0 internally. Rumors from the Anhui R&D center suggest 4.0 will introduce ChatGPT integration (via the local "ChatGLM" model) and a memory parking assist. However, that update is likely reserved for the 2025 model year ID.4s and the upcoming ID.7.
For now, the 3.5 update is the "new" standard, and it transforms the ID.4 from a competent German EV into a competitive Chinese smart car.
If you own an ID.4 in China and are still on ID. Software 3.0 or earlier, this new update (ME3.2/3.5) is highly recommended. It fixes core reliability issues, adds competitive EV routing with pre-conditioning, and modernizes the HMI. The gap between VW and local brands (NIO, Xpeng) has narrowed significantly on software experience. vw id 4 china software update new
For buyers considering a new ID.4 in China: ensure the car is built after July 2024 or ask the dealer to confirm that the new software (ME3.5) is already installed. Avoid dealer “demo cars” from early 2024 unless updated.
For Chinese winter conditions (especially in Northern cities like Beijing and Harbin), cold weather charging speeds have been a pain point. The new software update introduces a manual battery pre-conditioning button (found in the charging menu). When you navigate to a DC fast charger, the system automatically heats the battery to the optimal 20-25°C range. Early tests show charging speeds remain above 90kW even at -10°C ambient temperature, a massive improvement over the previous 45kW cap. While 3
Unlike in Europe or North America (where ID.4 updates went from 2.x → 3.x → 3.5/3.7), VW China (through CARIAD China, a joint venture with Horizon Robotics and Cerence) developed a localized HMI and E/E architecture for the ID. family sold there.
Volkswagen’s software subsidiary, CARIAD, has allowed the China team to fork the code. Consequently, the new VW ID.4 China software update includes three features you will not find on a German ID.4: For Chinese winter conditions (especially in Northern cities
The most noticeable change is the visual overhaul. Volkswagen China has abandoned the "global" cold-blue aesthetic for a warmer, high-contrast theme.
Let’s clear up the version confusion first. Globally, Volkswagen uses version numbers like 2.4, 3.0, and 3.2. In China, the development path diverged slightly due to local partnerships (CARIAD China) and integration with Chinese tech ecosystems (iFlytek, Tencent, Amap).
The "new" software update rolling out now is officially ID.S 3.5.3 (or higher in pilot fleets). This replaces the often-criticized 2.x and early 3.0 builds. Unlike previous updates that required a dealership visit, this one is being pushed via OTA to compatible 2022, 2023, and early 2024 models.
Note: For the absolute latest version availability for your specific VIN, consult the official FAW-VW or SAIC-VW dealer network or the "Volkswagen China" mobile app.
