Audi Begins Production of Electric Vehicles at Its New State-of-the-Art Plant in China

Audi begins production of electric vehicles at its new Changchun plant in China, focusing on innovative, sustainable, and locally tailored models like the Q6L e-tron.

Audi has reached a major milestone in China as Audi FAW NEV Company begins production of fully electric models tailored for the Chinese market.

This state-of-the-art facility in Changchun, developed in partnership with long-standing collaborator FAW, represents a key step in Audi’s electrification strategy.

The plant exclusively produces vehicles based on Audi’s PPE (Premium Platform Electric), starting with the Q6L e-tron and Q6L Sportback e-tron, followed by a China-specific version of the A6 e-tron.

The PPE platform sets new benchmarks for performance, range, and charging. The China-specific Q6L e-tron features an extended wheelbase and innovations designed to meet local preferences, including advanced digital interiors.

Audi emphasizes that localized production is essential for its success, with Gerd Walker, Audi’s Board Member for Production, stressing the plant’s role in enhancing customer proximity while setting new standards for integrated, eco-friendly production.

The Changchun site boasts a fully digitalized and automated system, integrating advanced technologies like digital twinning and SAP S/4HANA to streamline operations.

With over 800 robots ensuring precision and efficiency, automation levels in the body shop rank among the highest in China. Innovations include driverless transport systems, automated warehouses, and research into humanoid robotics through a partnership with UBTECH ROBOTICS.

Sustainability is central to the plant’s design. Under Audi’s Mission:Zero program, the facility aims for net carbon-neutral production from day one, powered by green energy, biomass heating, and extensive solar panels.

Efficient recycling systems, wastewater treatment in closed loops, and a focus on biodiversity—featuring wetlands, local plants, bee colonies, and wildlife-friendly lighting—further highlight Audi’s environmental commitment.

With a projected annual capacity of over 150,000 vehicles, the plant will create 3,000 jobs and achieve a localization rate of 90%, supported by a nearby supplier park. This reinforces Audi’s “in China, for China” strategy, ensuring smooth operations and regional economic growth.

The start of production marks a pivotal step in Audi’s China-focused electrification strategy, with models like the Q6L e-tron signaling its commitment to combining innovation, sustainability, and market-specific design to strengthen its position in one of the world’s most vital markets.

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