Audi, the first premium car brand in China since 1988, is deepening its footprint with a new joint venture with SAIC to launch the AUDI brand. This collaboration, embodying Audi’s renowned “Vorsprung durch Technik” approach, is set to deliver three electric production models from mid-2025. Targeted at China’s unique, tech-savvy, and younger premium market, these models highlight cutting-edge innovation with a fully connected, intelligent driving experience.
At the heart of this venture is the AUDI E concept, a Sportback model built on the Advanced Digitised Platform. Designed specifically for the Chinese market, it combines Audi’s engineering expertise with SAIC’s innovation agility. Measuring 4,870 mm in length, this sleek concept features a high-powered dual-motor setup, producing 764hp and 800 Nm of torque, enabling 0-100km/h acceleration in 3.6 seconds. A 100-kWh battery provides a 700km range, and its 800-volt architecture allows ultra-fast charging: a 10-minute charge adds over 370km.
The E concept’s design incorporates both minimalism and functionality, with iconic front and rear styling, smooth wheel arches, and expansive lighting graphics. Inside, the cabin combines comfort and advanced tech, integrating a 4K pillar-to-pillar touchscreen and touch-sensitive controls. Digital innovations include the AUDI OS, a robust ecosystem of apps and entertainment personalised through facial recognition and an AI avatar named AUDI Assistant for intuitive, voice-command interactions.
By harmonising Audi’s global premium standards with SAIC’s local insights, this partnership positions Audi to meet the growing demand for premium EVs in China, the world’s largest automotive market.
