Four New Chinese Audi Models
Germany automaker Audi just signed a new strategic cooperation agreement with Chinese SAIC Motor, which will result in the joint development of a next-generation Advanced Digitized Platform (ADP) for new electric vehicles. ADP, which will launch exclusively in China, will spawn four new AUDI models in the coming years.
AUDI
As a reminder, Audi launched a sub-brand in China called "AUDI," which began selling its first model called the E5 Sportback. Earlier this year, the E5 was awarded the Chinese Car of the Year based on its unique style, impressive 478-mile range, and premium quality. Audi has not announced what these four now ADP-based models will be, but we imagine they will have fairly unique styling, like the E5.
AUDI Is Growing In China
Audi
The AUDI brand already followed up on the E5's success with a second model called the E7X, a large SUV. Despite its substantial proportions, the E7X Audi says this model is geared towards "no compromise" rear seat comfort and in-car entertainment, meaning it will likely be a five-seater rather than a three-row vehicle like the Q7.
Audi is hoping the E7X will be a sales hit in China, as the E5 didn't have the smoothest launch despite its critical success. Early bugs caused issues when charging, resulting in disappointing sales numbers for the E5.
Audi Embraces China
Audi's ADP architecture in the E7X is highly impressive by American standards, as it supports 900-volt charging at up to 400 kW speeds. Only a handful of EVs sold in the United States can match that, such as the upcoming BMW i3 and iX3 as well as the Porsche Cayenne Electric.
There are no plans to bring any Chinese-built Audi models to North America, as tariffs would likely make them prohibitively expensive. Here in the US, American automakers have lobbied against bringing Chinese cars into the market, on the grounds they can not compete with them on price.
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