Audi sues Auto China over imports of AUDI electric vehicles into Germany

Audi seeks to stop imports of its own Chinese-built cars into Europe

Audi has taken legal action against German dealer Auto China, which imports electric vehicles from the Chinese brand AUDI into Germany. The E5 Sportback and E7X models were developed jointly with SAIC Motor for the Chinese market.

According to Automobilwoche, Auto China imports the cars from China itself, has them certified and then sells them to customers in Germany. The partners launched the AUDI brand in 2025 specifically for the Chinese market. The brand's cars bear the AUDI name instead of the four rings.

Audi says it filed the lawsuit because these electric vehicles are not intended for other countries. The company believes owners of these cars in Europe could face difficulties getting them serviced.

The publication also suggests that the Chinese models could draw buyers away from the Audi e-tron in Germany.