Audi and SAIC Deepen Partnership for New AUDI Models in China
Audi and SAIC have signed a strategic agreement to deepen collaboration, including a new Innovation & Technology Center in Shanghai and four all-new AUDI models.
- 4
- 2026
What Happened
Audi and SAIC have signed a strategic cooperation agreement to deepen their partnership. The agreement includes establishing a dedicated AUDI Innovation & Technology Center in Shanghai, led by AUDI AG, focusing on China-specific intelligent electrification technologies and whole-vehicle development for intelligent connected vehicles (ICVs).
AUDI brand launched in China.
First model, AUDI E5 Sportback, launched.
Audi and SAIC sign strategic cooperation agreement.
First SUV, AUDI E7X, debuts at Auto China 2026.
Third AUDI model set to launch.
“Following the successful launch of AUDI and its first model, we are ready to take the next step: establishing a dedicated Innovation and Technology Center in cooperation with our long-trusted partner SAIC to drive Vorsprung in China.”
The new center will focus on AI-powered smart cabins and advanced driver assistance systems engineered for China's premium users. The partners will jointly launch four all-new AUDI models on the next generation Advanced Digitized Platform (ADP), extending Audi's existing portfolio.
Why this matters
The partnership accelerates Audi's push in China's premium EV market by co-developing intelligent connected vehicles tailored to local preferences.
Terms in This Story
- ICV
- Intelligent Connected Vehicle: a vehicle equipped with advanced connectivity, AI, and automation technologies.
- ADP
- Advanced Digitized Platform: a vehicle architecture designed for intelligent connected vehicles.
- NEV
- New Energy Vehicle: a Chinese classification for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles.
Summarised from the linked release; details can be imperfect — always verify against the original source.