Audi is set to collaborate with SAIC, the leading automaker in China, to develop electric vehicles.
SAIC confirmed the partnership with Audi on Thursday in an official statement to Bloomberg.
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Acknowledging the rapid transformation of the Chinese automobile market, SAIC stated, “We unanimously concur that the Chinese auto market is currently undergoing the most significant change in its history, thus we will co-develop a strategic plan to ensure our future success.”
Although specific details about the partnership have not been released, Reuters reported last week, citing unnamed sources, that Audi intends to use an SAIC platform to speed up its own electric vehicle development in China. This would be particularly targeting the SAIC’s premium EV brand known as IM.
China represents the largest market for Audi, however, the brand is losing market share as its existing electric vehicle lineup has not been successful. Presently, Audi offers the Q4 E-Tron and Q5 E-Tron, both of which are based on the MEB platform of the Volkswagen Group, Audi’s parent company.
In the first quarter, Audi’s electric vehicle deliveries in China numbered slightly over 3,000, which is in stark contrast to the more than 21,000 delivered by BMW and the 137,000 plus delivered by Tesla during the same period.
While Audi has announced new electric vehicles such as the Q6 E-Tron, they are experiencing delays due to software-related issues.
In June, Audi appointed a new CEO.
SAIC already operates joint ventures in China with the Volkswagen Group and General Motors. The partnership with the Volkswagen Group, which oversees some of Audi’s production, has been active since 1985.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Audi-SAIC Electric Vehicle Partnership
Who are the parties involved in this new electric vehicle development partnership?
Audi, a subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group, is partnering with SAIC, China’s biggest automaker, for the development of electric vehicles.
What is the main aim of this collaboration between Audi and SAIC?
The primary aim of this collaboration is to accelerate the development of Audi’s electric vehicles for the Chinese market, possibly using an SAIC platform.
How is the current market performance of Audi’s electric vehicles in China?
Audi’s current electric vehicle lineup, including the Q4 E-Tron and Q5 E-Tron, has struggled to gain traction in China. In the first quarter, Audi delivered just over 3,000 EVs in China, far fewer than competitors BMW and Tesla.
What are the future plans of Audi concerning the electric vehicle market in China?
Audi plans to introduce new models like the Q6 E-Tron in the Chinese market, although they are experiencing delays due to software issues. This new partnership with SAIC is expected to accelerate the development of their EV line.
Does SAIC have any other joint ventures in the automotive industry in China?
Yes, SAIC already operates joint ventures in China with other automotive giants such as the Volkswagen Group and General Motors. In fact, the partnership with the Volkswagen Group has been active since 1985 and manages some of Audi’s production.
5 comments
Always great to see new collaborations in the EV space. this is how we make progress people!!! More power to Audi and SAIC. Keep pushing the envelope guys.
wow Audi teaming up with China’s biggest automaker thats huge news! maybe now they can finally catch up to Tesla… still have a long way to go though.
Audi has new EVs in the pipeline but they’re delayed due to software issues? Man, they need to get their act together! Competition isn’t slowing down any time soon.
Interesting. Wonder what this means for other automakers in China. Feels like a power play by Audi & SAIC.
hold on, i’m a bit surprised Audi is struggling in china… I thought they were leading the pack in EVs? well, guess not. hope this partnership turns things around for them!