Audi E5 Sportback: Production & Pre-Sales Begin in China

AUDI E5 Sportback: Production and Pre-Sales Kick Off in China

Audi is taking a bold step forward in China’s electric mobility market with the debut of the all-new AUDI E5 Sportback. On August 18, the very first series-production model of the newly established AUDI brand—designed specifically for Chinese customers—rolled off the production line in Anting, Shanghai. On the same day, pre-sales officially opened, giving eager buyers the chance to secure their place at the wheel of this premium all-electric fastback. Deliveries are set to begin in September, marking the start of an exciting new chapter for the German automaker in China.

A New Era for Audi in China

The AUDI E5 Sportback is not just another EV—it represents the first series model under the newly created AUDI brand, born from the strategic partnership between Audi and SAIC. This collaboration aims to blend Audi’s legendary premium quality and driving dynamics with China’s advanced digital ecosystem and cutting-edge technologies.

Fermín Soneira, CEO of the Audi-SAIC project, put it best:

“Every vehicle from the AUDI brand embodies the best of both worlds: iconic design, premium quality, technical precision, emotional driving dynamics, combined with China’s cutting-edge technology, innovation and digital ecosystem.”

With production and pre-sales running in parallel, Audi is sending a strong signal that it is ready to deliver an uncompromising EV experience to Chinese customers.

State-of-the-Art Production in Anting

To bring the E5 Sportback to life, Audi and SAIC have established a dedicated production facility on the existing SAIC Volkswagen site in Anting, Shanghai. This plant is equipped with:

• High levels of automation to ensure precision and efficiency.
• Machine learning quality monitoring, keeping every car up to Audi’s strict standards.
• A fully digitalized production management system for seamless operations.

At launch, about 700 employees are dedicated to building the new E5 Sportback. Audi has also confirmed that two additional AUDI models will follow within the next two years—making Anting a hub of innovation for the brand’s future in China.

Performance Meets Innovation

The AUDI E5 Sportback is built to impress with its combination of style, performance, and technology.

• Four-door fastback design with dynamic proportions.
• Four distinct powertrains, offering both rear-wheel drive and quattro all-wheel drive.
• Power outputs up to 579 kW and acceleration from 0–100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds.
• Maximum range of up to 770 km, catering to long-distance drivers as well as city commuters.

Underpinning all this is Audi’s Advanced Digitized Platform (ADP), which unlocks next-generation connected vehicle features, full-car over-the-air updates, and seamless integration with China’s digital lifestyle.

The Beginning of a New Chapter

The AUDI E5 Sportback isn’t just a new car—it’s the flagship of a new brand vision. By blending German engineering excellence with China’s innovative ecosystem, Audi is targeting the growing demand for premium EVs in the Chinese market.

With production already underway and deliveries just weeks away, the AUDI E5 Sportback is poised to set a new standard for luxury electric fastbacks in one of the most competitive EV markets in the world.

???? In summary: The AUDI E5 Sportback represents Audi’s commitment to shaping the future of electric mobility in China—delivering premium performance, cutting-edge technology, and an electrifying new identity.