Audi is making a significant change to its business structure in China, redefining how its two major joint ventures will operate. The move creates a clearer separation between the AUDI-branded EV lineup and the traditional four-ring Audi models, while also aiming to improve speed, focus, and adaptability in one of the world’s most competitive automotive markets.
Audi has unveiled a major overhaul of its operations in China, splitting its brand and production responsibilities between its two long-standing local partners. Under the new structure, the Audi-SAIC partnership will focus exclusively on vehicles carrying the all-caps AUDI branding, while the Audi-FAW joint venture will continue to handle models wearing Audi’s familiar four-ring logo.
The restructuring goes beyond branding. Audi-FAW will manage a mixed portfolio that includes both electric vehicles and internal-combustion models, giving it a broader range of products for customers who still prefer traditional powertrains. Meanwhile, the Audi-SAIC side will remain fully dedicated to electric vehicle production, reinforcing its role in Audi’s EV-focused future.
According to Audi, existing after-sales service and customer support will continue as normal during the transition. However, the company has not yet explained how sales operations will be managed once the initial transition period is complete.
Audi and SAIC have already introduced several AUDI-badged models, including the E5 Sportback and the E7X SUV. Looking ahead, new models based on the Advanced Digitized Platform 2.0 are expected to arrive by 2028. On the Audi-FAW side, upcoming products are expected to include the A6L e-tron and Q6L e-tron, along with models such as the A5L and A6L.
Ultimately, Audi’s dual-brand, dual-partner approach is designed to create a clearer distinction between the two joint ventures. The company believes this strategy will help accelerate decision-making, improve market responsiveness, and better position the brand amid rapidly changing consumer demands in China.
