Audi-SAIC EVs Reach Germany via Importer at Double China Price

Two electric models developed exclusively for the Chinese market by Audi and SAIC, the AUDI E5 Sportback and E7X, have recently entered the German market through parallel importer Auto China. The E5 Sportback is priced at EUR 59,980 in Germany, equivalent to about RMB 470,000, while its starting price in China is RMB 205,900. The larger E7X SUV starts at EUR 72,900 in Germany, or about RMB 570,000, compared with a domestic starting price of RMB 269,800. Importer Auto China handles vehicle procurement in China, shipping to Germany, and local certification and registration, and its business also includes parallel imports of Xiaomi, Li Auto, and SAIC models.

Even at double the price, the two vehicles remain competitively priced. The E5 Sportback features dual motors with a maximum output of 776 hp, while Audi's own S6 Sportback e-tron starts at EUR 99,500 with 543 hp. The Audi SQ6 e-tron, positioned close to the E7X, starts at EUR 93,800. The E5 Sportback comes standard with an 800V platform, lidar, and a 59-inch panoramic display, and has won China's Car of the Year award. However, the venture is not without risk, as Audi could take legal action to block such sales. A precedent occurred in 2023, when a German importer brought in 20 China-spec Volkswagen ID. 6 vehicles and was ordered to destroy them after legal proceedings. Even if Audi does not act, owners may lack official after-sales and maintenance support.