Audi Establishes Innovation & Technology Center in Shanghai for AUDI Brand

Audi Innovation & Technology Center (AITC) officially opened in Shanghai on September 3, established as a joint venture between Audi AG and SAIC Motor. The center is dedicated exclusively to the AUDI brand and will serve as a full vehicle-development hub with end-to-end R&D capabilities.

Audi and SAIC will jointly develop four new AUDI models based on the ADP 2.0 (Advanced Digitized Platform), a dedicated architecture designed for next-generation smart connected vehicles. The first model is scheduled to launch in 2028.

Leadership and Structure

Matthias Pfister has been appointed general manager of AITC by Audi, while Shan Yunwei takes the deputy general manager role from SAIC. Pfister previously led the SAIC Volkswagen Shanghai pre-volume center and brings extensive experience across German and Chinese automotive R&D environments. He will oversee operations strategy, R&D integration and business development at the new center.

The two companies will together build a team of approximately 300 top engineers and designers focused on AI-driven luxury mobility experiences.

Equity in AITC is held by SAIC Motor at 49%, Audi AG at 41%, and Volkswagen China at 10%.

A Historical Milestone

Fermín Soneira, CEO of the Audi-SAAC cooperation project, called the center's launch "a historic milestone" in Audi's development blueprint, paving the way for the next generation of smart connected AUDI vehicles in the Chinese market. The plan was first announced by SAIC Audi in April this year.

The AUDI brand — distinct from Audi's global "four-ring" lineup — was introduced as a China-specific premium electric offering, with the E7X and E5 Sportback models already on sale through SAIC Audi dealerships.