- In the second offensive by Audi and SAIC, the two parties will jointly launch a first batch of four all-new AUDI brand models.
- In the first product offensive, the AUDI brand has prepared three mass-produced models, including the already-launched E5 Sportback.
Audi and SAIC are deepening their cooperation to jointly develop the next generation of AUDI brand models, a strategic move that marks the AUDI brand's second major offensive in China.
The two companies have officially signed a strategic cooperation agreement to further deepen their partnership and drive Audi's growth in China, according to a statement released by SAIC-Audi on Friday.
At the core of the agreement is the establishment of a new, dedicated innovation and technology center in Shanghai led by Audi, focusing on vehicle research and development.
The move aims to pave the way for a full value chain layout for future AUDI models and meet Chinese consumers' evolving demands for smart EVs.
Based on the next generation of the Advanced Digitized Platform (ADP), the two parties will jointly develop and launch a first batch of four all-new AUDI brand models, according to the statement.
These all-new EV models will hit the Chinese market in the coming years, further expanding and complementing Audi's existing product lineup in China.
The newly established R&D center is not only a regional technology hub but also a key component of the German automaker's global R&D system.
Through this deepened Sino-German joint team collaboration, Audi expects to meet the most demanding needs of Chinese users in an agile manner.
Audi and SAIC launched the AUDI brand in China in November 2024, featuring an "AUDI" letter logo, hoping to leverage China's supply chain to build EV models that cater to local consumer preferences.
In the planning of its first product offensive, the AUDI brand has prepared a total of three mass-produced models to establish its initial leading position in China's premium EV market.
As the new brand's first mass-produced model, the wagon-style AUDI E5 Sportback was officially launched in China in September 2025.
Continuing the first wave of the offensive, AUDI's first SUV model, the AUDI E7X, is set to make its global debut at the 2026 Beijing Auto Show starting next week. The model already entered a Chinese regulatory catalog in December last year, paving the way for its market launch.
The third all-new model in the first offensive is scheduled to be launched in 2027, according to today's statement.
The signing of the new cooperation agreement will further accelerate the development of the AUDI brand and expand its product matrix, the statement said.
The establishment of the Shanghai innovation and technology center serves as Audi's strategic confidence and crucial technology hub for taking root in the Chinese market and making a strong push in the premium EV race.
The R&D center's core efforts will focus on immersive AI cockpits and advanced driver-assistance systems tailored specifically for China's high-end market.
By collecting and analyzing real-world data feedback from Chinese users, the center will be used to optimize smart driving and cabin functions to maintain the long-term competitiveness of the products.
With the launch of the E5 Sportback, the AUDI brand has achieved initial success in its transition to electrification, a strategy similar to that of many of its traditional luxury car competitors.
Mercedes-Benz and Geely are expanding in the Chinese EV market under their Smart joint venture, while Jaguar Land Rover has also partnered with Chery to revive the Freelander brand.
