SAIC Audi’s first model likely to hit the market in early 2022

Shanghai (Gasgoo)- The first model jointly developed by SAIC Motor and Audi will be launched into the market in early 2022, according to a local media outlet, citing Chen Hong, SAIC Motor's chairman and a deputy to the 13th National People's Congress.

Under the SAIC Audi project, there will reportedly be four models to be locally produced first, namely, the longer-wheelbase version of the Audi A7 (the Audi A7L), an A+ segment all-electric SUV, a mid-sized SUV and a full-sized SUV, which are likely to be followed by the Audi Q4 e-tron, Q6 and Q8.

In all likelihood, the first product will be the Audi A7L that is based on Volkswagen Group's MLB platform for shared modular construction of its longitudinal, front-engine automobiles, according to earlier media reports.

The existing Audi A7 is being delivered in China as an imported model with guiding prices ranging between 573,800 yuan ($80,384) and 859,800 yuan ($120,450). The price will no doubt be reduced after the locally-produced version comes out.

Aside from the normal progress of SAIC-Audi project, SAIC Motor and GAC Group has set up a working team to exchange data and analyze the feasibility on powertrain applications after the two automobile giants forged a strategic partnership in last December, according to Mr. Chen. Besides, both parties are jointly working on developing hybrid system, procuring goods to cut costs and sharing logistics resources.

He added that SAIC Motor and GAC Group will co-invest in and develop some strategic core technologies and platforms in such areas as NEV, automobile intelligence, connectivity and lightweight. Regarding new business models, they are about to strengthen the research and teamwork of car sharing, mobility service as well as separating consumption of vehicles and batteries.