Audi’s Shanghai technology centre hands SAIC and AUDI the full development cycle, a sign of how far localisation now has to go in China
Audi and SAIC have opened a Shanghai technology centre that will steer development of every future model from the China-exclusive AUDI brand, from initial concept to production readiness. Around 300 staff will focus on advanced driver assistance and an AI-based cabin, working to shorter cycles.
Led by General Manager Matthias Pfister, with Shan Yunwei as deputy, the site will also build the second-generation Advanced Digitized Platform for future AUDI models. Placing that platform in Shanghai gives the joint brand control of its technical base.
Cabin work covers multimodal interaction, agentic functions and personalisation for Chinese premium buyers. An unnamed Chinese AI and cloud provider is helping explore how its models could enter vehicles early in development, which could tie AUDI closely to local software.
Founded in 2024, AUDI launched the E5 Sportback in 2025 and the all-electric E7X in May 2026. One more planned model will round out its first generation.
In a statement, Gernot Döllner, Chairman of the Board of Management of Audi AG, said: “China is a key market for Audi and one of the most dynamic innovation hubs in the automotive industry. To succeed here, we need to develop close to our customers and rapidly translate new technologies into compelling products. Together with our partner SAIC, the new technology center strengthens exactly these capabilities. In doing so, we are making a targeted investment in our long-term competitiveness in China.”
Source: Audi
Source: www.automotiveworld.com
