Audi has commenced mass production of the fully electric E5 Sportback, the inaugural model of its newly formed, China-only AUDI brand, at the SAIC-Volkswagen plant in Anting, Shanghai. The vehicle marks the debut of a new line of intelligent electric models under the Audi brand, developed through a strategic collaboration with Chinese automaker SAIC. Pre-sales for the electric fastback are underway, with initial deliveries scheduled for September 2025.
Unveiled at the Shanghai Motor Show in April, the AUDI E5 Sportback is the first model built on the brand’s newly developed Advanced Digitized Platform (ADP). It is available in several variants, starting with the Pioneer RWD, which features a 76 kWh LFP battery and delivers a CLTC range of 618 km. At the top end is the Flagship Quattro AWD, equipped with a 100 kWh battery, offering a range of 647 km and a powerful 579 kW motor. Prices in China range from RMB 235,900 to RMB 319,900, approximately €28,200 to €38,200.
To manufacture AUDI vehicles, Audi and SAIC have set up a specialized manufacturing facility within the existing SAIC Volkswagen complex in Anting.
At launch, approximately 700 workers are dedicated to building the AUDI E5 Sportback. Over the next two years, two more AUDI models are expected to enter production at the site. The Anting plant features advanced automation, cutting-edge technologies such as machine learning for quality control, and a fully digital production management system.
Developed on the Advanced Digitized Platform, Sportback is equipped with sophisticated technologies such as lidar, radar, 11 cameras, and autonomous driving and infotainment systems powered by Nvidia Orin X. It also features an 800 V electrical architecture that enables rapid charging and high-performance driving, with the top-tier variant accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds.
With production rolling and pre-sales open, the E5 Sportback strengthens Audi’s presence in China’s fast-growing EV market, reflecting its drive for innovation and market-focused EV solutions.
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