German luxury carmaker Audi has further deepened its strategic collaboration with Chinese auto giant SAIC Motor, aiming to accelerate its electric vehicle (EV) expansion in China. The renewed agreement highlights a long-term commitment to jointly develop next-generation intelligent EVs tailored specifically for the Chinese market.
As part of this strengthened alliance, both companies will establish a dedicated Innovation and Technology Center in Shanghai. This new hub will focus on advanced research and development, particularly in intelligent connected vehicles, software integration, and next-gen automotive technologies designed to meet evolving consumer expectations in China.
A key highlight of the partnership is the joint development of a new lineup of electric vehicles under their co-created “AUDI” brand. Unlike traditional Audi cars, this China-specific brand uses a distinct identity and is designed to appeal to younger, tech-savvy buyers in the world’s largest EV market.
The companies plan to launch at least four new models in the coming years, built on a next-generation Advanced Digitized Platform. These vehicles will feature enhanced digital architecture, smarter connectivity, and advanced driver-assistance systems, strengthening Audi’s position in China’s fast-evolving premium EV segment.
This move comes as global automakers face intense competition from domestic Chinese EV brands and shifting consumer preferences toward high-tech, connected vehicles. By localizing development and leveraging SAIC’s strong ecosystem, Audi aims to respond faster to market demands while improving efficiency in product development.
Overall, the expanded partnership reflects Audi’s aggressive push to regain momentum in China, combining German engineering with Chinese innovation capabilities. With a new R&D hub and a robust EV pipeline, the alliance is set to play a crucial role in shaping Audi’s future growth in the global electric mobility landscape.
