Audi builds a new e e-car plant in China

The manufacturer is building a new production plant in China for fully electric Audi models based on the Premium Platform Electric (PPE).

In the past few months, the cooperative venture between Audi and its partner FAW has set the next milestone: Following intensive preparations and approval by the Chinese authorities, construction of the new factory in Changchun is about to start, Audi said in a recent announcement. The plant is expected to be able to produce more than 150,000 electric cars annually.

"The Audi FAW NEV Company plays a central role in our electrification strategy in China. We are delighted to have reached another important milestone in the realization of this project together with our partner FAW. " - Markus Duesmann said.

He added that a state-of-the-art factory for all-electric Audi models will be built in Changchun on an area of around 150 hectares by the end of 2024. "As the newest production site, the plant will set new standards in the areas of digitalization, efficiency, and sustainability. With the Audi FAW NEV Company, we will provide new impetus for e-mobility in China," says Jürgen Unser, President Audi China.

A completely new IT architecture is to be set up for the networking of all processes. The cross-site environmental program "Mission Zero" sets the guidelines for sustainable production, with the goal of building the vehicles in Changchun CO2-neutral and wastewater-free. In addition to the production areas of the press shop, body shop, paint shop, and assembly, the plant will also have its battery assembly. The first buildings are to be erected in Changchun after the end of the frost period.

Audi's first pure e-car plant in China
The new plant in Changchun will be the first production site in China where only fully electric Audi models will roll off the production line. With an annual capacity of more than 150,000 vehicles, the factory is expected to make a key contribution to the electrification of the Audi product portfolio in China. Initially, three models will be built on the basis of the Premium Platform Electric, which Audi is developing together with Porsche. The first of these will be an electrically powered SUV and an e-sedan, according to Audi.

The Audi FAW NEV Company is the first cooperation company in China in which Audi holds a majority stake. The CEO is Helmut Stettner, who will also be in charge of the new factory.