CN — TechNode
Audi reportedly seeks Huawei platform for next-generation A8 built in China
Mobility1 min read
Audi is reportedly talking with Huawei about building a China-only version of its next A8 car. Huawei would help design it using its own vehicle technology.
What happened
German news outlet Manager Magazin reported that Audi is in talks with Huawei, a Chinese tech company. The two want to make a special China version of the next-generation Audi A8, a large luxury car. Huawei would provide its car design framework, called an architecture, and do key development work. The car would be built in China instead of being shipped from Germany. The talks also include other premium cars, such as an SUV. No final deal has been signed.
Key facts
- First production is targeted before the end of 2028.
- The plan supports Audi's factory in Changchun, China.
- No agreement has been finalized yet.
- The report comes from Manager Magazin, not from an official Audi or Huawei announcement.
Why Audi is doing this
Audi sells many cars in China, but the premium car market there is getting more crowded. Local brands are growing fast. Using a Chinese partner's technology could help Audi make cars that fit Chinese buyers' tastes and move faster.
Why it matters
This shows how foreign carmakers are teaming up with Chinese tech firms to stay strong in China. If the deal goes ahead, a German luxury brand would rely on a Chinese company for core car design. That could change how carmakers work together in the future.
What to watch
- Whether Audi and Huawei sign a final agreement.
- Whether Audi or Huawei officially confirms the talks.
- Whether the China-built A8 starts production by 2028.
- Whether the SUV and other premium models are added to the plan.
Glossary
- Huawei
- A large Chinese technology company that makes phones, networking gear, and car technology.
- Audi
- A German luxury car brand owned by the Volkswagen Group.
- A8
- Audi's large luxury sedan, a top model in the brand's lineup.
- architecture
- The basic design framework that a car is built on, including its electronics and software structure.
- Changchun
- A city in northeast China where Audi has a car factory.
- Manager Magazin
- A German business magazine that first reported this story.