The plant, focusing on digitalization and sustainability, sets to revolutionize electric vehicle production.
Audi is propelling its electrification journey forward with the construction of a new, state-of-the-art electric vehicle (EV) factory in Changchun, China. This groundbreaking venture, a collaboration between Audi and its Chinese partner FAW (First Automotive Works), marks a significant milestone in Audi’s global strategy, emphasizing digitalization, efficiency, and sustainability.
At the heart of Audi’s electrification strategy for China, the Audi FAW NEV Company is a pioneer in Audi’s global expansion. This new facility is not just another plant; it is Audi’s first in China dedicated exclusively to all-electric vehicles. Helmut Stettner, CEO of Audi FAW NEV Company Ltd., points out the plant’s pivotal role in advancing the region’s economic development and establishing a comprehensive industrial ecosystem around the new site.
The journey began in March 2021 when Audi and FAW Group founded Audi FAW NEV Company, marking a historical moment as the first joint company in China where Audi holds a majority stake. Progress has been swift and significant. By June 2022, the company commenced the construction of the new production site, and in November, they celebrated the completion of the building shells. Come 2024, the plant will buzz with activity as personnel move in, and by the end of the year, the series production of the first all-electric models is set to commence. What sets this factory apart is its sheer scale and futuristic approach. Spanning over 154 hectares, it’s slightly larger than Audi’s plant in Neckarsulm. With a capacity to produce up to 150,000 fully electric Audi models annually, the plant will initially focus on three models from the Audi A6 e-tron and Q6 e-tron series. The production site will cover the entire automotive production value chain, signifying Audi’s commitment to comprehensive manufacturing excellence.
Digitalization plays a crucial role in the construction and operation of this new factory. Audi has leveraged digital twins and 3D technology from the start, ensuring precision and efficiency in every aspect of the production process. International collaboration is enhanced through VR technology, allowing construction experts from Ingolstadt to virtually visit and collaborate with their Chinese counterparts in real-time.
Sustainability is at the forefront of Audi’s vision. As part of its global environmental program “Mission:Zero”, Audi is committed to achieving net carbon-neutral production. The Changchun plant will use 100 percent green energy, with rooftop solar panels generating substantial electricity annually. The factory will also feature a closed water cycle, emphasizing Audi’s dedication to responsible water use and resource efficiency.
Audi FAW NEV Company is a beacon of innovation and sustainability. With the integration of intelligent fault detection, real-time monitoring, and predictive algorithms, the company is setting new benchmarks in efficient, sustainable, and digital manufacturing. As Audi forges ahead with its new EV factory in China, it not only reaffirms its commitment to the future of mobility but also demonstrates its dedication to environmental stewardship and technological innovation. This venture is a testament to Audi’s vision of driving progress and shaping the future of electric mobility.
Image Source: Audi
