Audi's Goal: 700,000 Units in China

Audi currently produces models, including theA6, locally at the Changchun plant, a joint venture between FAW (First Automotive Works) and the Volkswagen Group. Sales have been strong, with 313,000 units recorded in 2011, surpassing Germany's 254,000 units.

Peter Schwarzenbauer, Member of the Board of Management for Marketing and Sales, announced ambitious plans: "We aim to double this figure by 2015, increasing our production capacity in China to 700,000 units by 2015."

These plans include:Q3importation and subsequent local production, and replacing the China-exclusive long-wheelbase A6L with the new A6.

"For the new A6L, we will establish an infotainment tech center in Beijing to enable Audi connect, and tailor the MMI (Multi Media Interface) touchpad with Chinese character recognition to better serve the Chinese market," Schwarzenbauer explained.

Plans are also underway to establish a plant in the United States, which saw double-digit growth last year, aiming to increase sales within the premium segment there. When asked about the reasons for this expansion, Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board of Management, stated, "It's important to be able to compensate if sales in one market are affected for any reason. In essence, it's a significant element of risk hedging."