SAIC Motor Confirms Partnership with Audi for Next-Gen EV Platform Supply

SAIC Motor, a Chinese state-owned automaker, confirms its collaboration with Audi

• SAIC Motor partners with Audi to accelerate EV development and strengthen strategic cooperation.

• The collaboration addresses Audi’s need for advanced EV platform technology in the Chinese market.

• Details about the partnership’s extent and platform acquisition remain undisclosed.

SAIC Motor, the state-owned automaker in China, has officially confirmed its partnership with Audi for the supply of next-generation electric vehicle platforms. The collaboration comes after weeks of rumors and speculation surrounding Audi’s search for a new partner in the Chinese EV market to acquire advanced EV platform technology.

Earlier this month, reports surfaced that Audi was actively exploring the purchase of a new EV platform in China, rather than waiting for Volkswagen Group’s planned delivery timeline in 2029. While specific original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) were not mentioned, industry experts pointed out that SAIC Motor could be a suitable option.

Subsequent reports indicated that Audi had indeed set its sights on SAIC Motor and was engaged in advanced discussions regarding technology acquisition, with a particular focus on platforms powering EVs from SAIC’s luxury sub-brand, IM Motors.

SAIC Motor has now officially confirmed its collaboration with Audi, although specific details remain limited. The Chinese state-owned conglomerate acknowledged the rumors and stated that it has reached a consensus with Audi to accelerate EV development. Both companies recognize the unprecedented transformation in the Chinese auto market and intend to deepen their strategic cooperation moving forward.

The extent of the partnership and the nature of the collaboration between SAIC Motor and Audi remain undisclosed at this stage. It remains unclear whether Audi plans to acquire its next-generation platform from IM Motor, as previously rumored, or if the companies will engage in co-developing a completely bespoke architecture with the assistance of SAIC.

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As the partnership progresses, the details of the EV platform supply and joint development efforts will likely be clarified. Audi’s pursuit of EV platform technology in China underscores the growing importance of the Chinese market and the need to leverage local expertise and resources. SAIC Motor’s role as the chosen partner reflects its standing as a prominent player in the Chinese EV industry.

With the transformation of the Chinese auto market gaining momentum, this collaboration between SAIC Motor and Audi signals an ongoing commitment to advancing EV technology and promoting sustainable mobility. As the EV saga unfolds, further details regarding the partnership and Audi’s plans for its next-generation platform are eagerly awaited.