German automaker Audi remains on track in the development of its highly anticipated electric vehicle (EV) plant in China. The company has recently confirmed that construction is well underway, with production set to commence in 2024, marking a significant milestone in Audi’s electrification strategy.
Audi has partnered with First Automotive Works (FAW) to establish the Audi FAW NEV Company, an exclusive facility dedicated to the production of all-electric Audi models. Covering an area of 154 hectares, this state-of-the-art plant surpasses the size of Audi’s existing facility in Neckarsulm, Germany. The ambitious goal is to manufacture up to 150,000 electric models annually, focusing initially on the Audi A6 e-tron and Q6 e-tron series.
The Audi FAW NEV Company integrates the entire automotive production value chain, encompassing various components such as the press shop, body shop, paint shop, assembly, and even a battery assembly facility for China-specific PPE models. The company has also planned a dedicated supplier park near the factory to minimize logistics distances and streamline operations.
With a workforce expected to comprise around 3,000 employees from different nationalities, the new facility will showcase advanced digital methods and virtual reality technology in its production design. This innovative approach allows for seamless collaboration between construction experts in Ingolstadt, Germany, and the on-site teams in China. Furthermore, the factory aims to optimize maintenance, logistics, and manufacturing processes by implementing a single IT architecture.
In line with Audi’s global environmental program “Mission:Zero,” the Changchun facility places a strong emphasis on decarbonization, responsible water use, resource efficiency, and biodiversity. The plant operates solely on 100 percent renewable energy, generated by rooftop solar panels, with an annual production of 35 million kilowatt hours of electricity. Additionally, the facility employs a closed water cycle and a comprehensive water management system to ensure sustainable practices. As part of its commitment to carbon neutrality, Audi plans to offset any remaining CO₂ emissions within its supply chain, manufacturing, and recycling processes.
Helmut Stettner, CEO of Audi FAW NEV Company Ltd., highlighted the strategic importance of the plant, stating, “Audi FAW NEV Company assumes a central role in Audi’s electrification strategy for China. It is the first Audi plant in China to exclusively produce all-electric vehicles. We are also establishing a comprehensive industrial ecosystem centered around our new plant in Changchun. It will drive improvements throughout the supply chain and advance the region’s economic development.”
FAQs
1. When will the production of electric vehicles begin at Audi’s new plant in China?
The production of electric vehicles at Audi’s new facility in China is scheduled to commence in 2024.
2. How many electric models does Audi plan to manufacture annually at the new plant?
Audi aims to produce up to 150,000 electric models annually at the Audi FAW NEV Company.
3. What measures is Audi taking to ensure sustainable practices at the plant?
Audi’s Changchun facility operates on 100 percent renewable energy, generated by rooftop solar panels. The plant also implements a closed water cycle and a comprehensive water management system. Additionally, Audi plans to offset any remaining CO₂ emissions within its supply chain, manufacturing, and recycling processes.