Audi in talks with Huawei for China-specific vehicle platform

Audi is currently engaged in discussions with Huawei to develop a China-specific platform for its upcoming A8 sedan, according to reports from Manager Magazin. The strategy involves localized production in China rather than importing finished units from German facilities, leveraging Huawei's technical infrastructure to meet regional market demands.

The scope of the potential collaboration extends beyond the A8, reportedly encompassing additional premium models, including SUVs. The initiative is intended to support Audi’s production operations in Changchun, with the automaker setting a target to commence manufacturing before the end of 2028.

While an agreement has not been finalized, the move highlights Audi’s efforts to maintain its market share in China, where domestic electric vehicle manufacturers have increasingly challenged traditional luxury brands. By integrating Huawei’s digital and hardware architecture, Audi aims to bridge the technological gap in a sector where connectivity and local software integration are becoming critical competitive advantages.