Audi defines future network strategy with partners in China

Audi, the FAW Group and FAW-Volkswagen have signed an agreement with the Audi dealer council for the future development of the Audi business in China.

The agreement is based on a common understanding of how the planned cooperation between SAIC and Audi will meet the interests of all parties involved. Audi AG, the FAW Group and FAW-Volkswagen will implement the 10-year growth plan together with their dealer partners to develop business in China in a profitable and sustainable way.

“This very constructive agreement is a strategic milestone for Audi’s business in China,” said Dietmar Voggenreiter, Board member for Sales and Marketing at Audi AG. “It paves the way for our two-partner strategy and will allow us to further strengthen our commitment to China. Together with strong partners, we will shape the future of premium mobility in China by further extending our local product and service portfolio, ensuring an attractive business for all parties.”

Audi to expand portfolio, 5 new e-tron models planned
Based on the 10-year growth plan of Audi, FAW Group and FAW-Volkswagen, Audi will extend its portfolio of locally produced and imported models in China, aiming to continuously deliver premium cars, future technologies and top service to customers in China.

The cooperation in the field of electric mobility will be strongly expanded, driving forward the development of competencies in key technologies within the joint venture. In the next five years, the Audi brand at FAW-Volkswagen will bring five new e-tron models to market. To advance localisation, the collaboration in the field of tool making will be enhanced.

Likely partnership between Audi and SAIC
Audi says the agreement between the Audi stakeholders and the dealer representatives incorporates the interests of the existing sales network into the new two-pillar strategy of Audi in China. All parties reached a mutual understanding that Audi models from a potential partnership between Audi and SAIC Motor would be sold through the brand’s existing dealer network in China. In accordance with legal requirements, a new sales steering structure will be defined for the unified distribution of Audi products from two partners.

Audi and Volkswagen Group’s longstanding partner SAIC are in the process of evaluating a partnership for the production and distribution of Audi models and establishing data and mobility services. The aim of the strategic course is to develop the China business profitably for all parties involved.