Audi is consistently rolling out artificial intelligence (AI) in production and logistics: the company is scaling up its own cloud platform for production and introducing new AI use cases and technologies for large-scale series production. In doing so, the premium manufacturer is relying on the expertise of strong partners. Decades of manufacturing expertise meet smart digital solutions.

“Artificial intelligence is a quantum leap for efficiency in our production. With our AI and digitalization roadmap, we are transforming our plants into smart factories where AI acts as a partner, providing our employees with tailored support. The first AI-controlled robots are taking over tasks that are ergonomically strenuous, and chatbots are providing additional relief,“ explains Gerd Walker, Member of the Board of Management for Production and Logistics at Audi. “We are bringing together Audi’s decades of production expertise, our own innovative strength, and the expertise of strong partners such as the Innovation Park Artificial Intelligence (IPAI) in Heilbronn.”

Edge Cloud 4 Production forms the foundation

Audi is putting the Edge Cloud 4 Production (EC4P) into operation across its production environment. In doing so, the company is setting the next benchmark in fully networked factory automation and at the same time laying the foundation for the widespread use of AI in production. EC4P makes it possible to combine conventional automation technology with flexibility and computing power from the cloud. This allows Audi to simplify processes, reduce the amount of hardware required on site, and introduce new functions more quickly. That makes processes more stable, reduces maintenance costs, and increases IT security.

In vehicle assembly at German plants, for example, worker guidance is increasingly being controlled centrally from the cloud: employees on the production line receive information such as vehicles' specifications or regional versions from a central source in real time. The move to the cloud has already eliminated the need for more than 1,000 industrial PCs.

In the body shop for the A5 and A6 series in Neckarsulm, Germany, EC4P is now being used in a highly automated production environment for large-scale series production for the first time.
Virtual programmable logic controllers (vPLC) are replacing local hardware controllers on the production lines. Industrial devices, including around 100 robots, work together via the EC4P with millisecond precision. The EC4P meets the highest requirements for a smooth production process, enabling several hundred vehicle bodies to be manufactured every day in three shifts – a benchmark that is unique in the industry to date.

AI supports employees and ensures quality

The Weld Splatter Detection (WSD) system will also run on the EC4P in the future, enabling even greater flexibility and scalability. At Audi’s Neckarsulm site, WSD detects weld splatter on the underbody of a car body and marks it with light. Thanks to a recent upgrade, a robot arm has taken over grinding them down – a physically demanding job. The Volkswagen Group's first AI-supported weld spatter detection system will soon go into series production at six plants in Ingolstadt.

Audi is also developing ProcessGuardAIn, its own AI solution for monitoring manufacturing processes. This was made possible by a team of Audi data experts who have built up the cross-plant “P-Data Engine” platform over the past few years. The platform combines various system and plant data from production at a uniform quality level. Thanks to this database, data scientists at Audi can quickly and efficiently develop and scale AI applications – such as ProcessGuardAIn. The AI solution bundles decades of expert knowledge as well as plant and process data in a standardized, scalable modular system that can be used across the Volkswagen Group.

Based on machine and sensor data, ProcessGuardAIn already monitors production steps in real time, detects anomalies at an early stage, and informs the experts. The pilot phase for two use cases is currently ongoing at the Neckarsulm paint shop: dosage optimization in pretreatment and anomaly detection in cathodic dip coating (CDC). Introduction into series production is planned for the second quarter of 2026. Early fault detection simplifies manual work steps and reduces follow-up costs.

In the next stages of development, ProcessGuardAIn will provide data-based recommendations for action and guide employees step by step through the solution via an app. In the future, ProcessGuardAIn can serve as a central tool for predictive maintenance and quality assurance in all plants for monitoring all manufacturing processes.

Unique, forward-looking project: automated wiring loom installation

In the Next2OEM project, Audi is working with ten partners at its Ingolstadt, Germany, headquarters to demonstrate how the production and assembly of a wiring loom can be completely digitized and automated – from the supplier to installation in the factory. To date, less than ten percent of wiring loom production and assembly is automated across the industry.

A demonstrator funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy has been created in Ingolstadt that maps the entire process chain: from wiring loom production and pre-assembly in the center console with automation-compatible connectors to automated installation in the vehicle – controlled by a central system. The benefits for Audi are considerable: less logistical effort and significantly shorter lead times for changes – minutes instead of weeks. The next step is to incorporate the knowledge gained into the large-scale production of future vehicle projects.

First IPAI cooperation: AI-based dryer operation in the paint shop

Audi is testing the first application from an IPAI cooperation in series production at its Neckarsulm site with AI-supported dryer operation. The AI model on which the application is based comes from another industry. Through cooperation and exchange within the IPAI, experts have identified the potential for Audi. Various controllers that regulate the temperature and air volume in the longitudinal dryer are currently being connected to the AI system. This allows for a faster response to even the smallest changes in production line speed in order to make the drying process as resource-efficient as possible. Audi will be testing how much energy can be saved as a result until summer 2026. The AI-supported system is a joint project developed by Audi, appliedAI initiative, and CVET GmbH.

Working in an innovative environment

On its path to data-driven production, Audi is relying on a combination of its own know-how and the expertise of strong partners from industry and science.

Within the company, around 60 experts in the Audi Production Lab (P-Lab) and the P-Data Factory are driving new technologies forward—from the initial idea to large-scale production.

Together with Broadcom, Cisco, and Siemens, Audi is implementing the interaction between virtualization platform, network, and automation technology as part of EC4P. In addition, the company has been an active partner in the IPAI in Heilbronn, the European hotspot for applied AI, since 2023. These collaborations provide access to the latest developments, start-ups, and talent—and accelerate the transfer of innovations into series production. “Together with our partners, we are setting standards for the data-driven production of the future: decisively and responsibly,” said Walker.

Clear rules for AI and the use of data

In its Code of Conduct, which is binding for all employees, and in a policy statement on artificial intelligence, Audi is committed to the responsible use of AI as a key technology of our time. The three guiding principles of respect, security, and transparency are intended to help exploit the potential of AI, protect the company and its employees, and respect the rights of users. In addition, the Data Sharing Code of Practice ensures that data is handled in accordance with the company's values.

Cross-plant collaboration on AI and digitalization

When it comes to various AI use cases, the Audi production network relies on scaling and intensive sharing:

• The Audi Hungaria team systematically assesses its value chain to identify potential for digitalization. From planning and manufacturing to quality assurance, AI is making production processes at the plant in Györ, Hungary, more transparent and efficient.
• At Audi México, management uses the AI-supported “Production Reports” tool to display key figures in real time and to make decisions based on precise, up-to-date operating data from the San José Chiapa plant.

Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com

A historic moment for the four rings: Audi Revolut F1 Team was officially unveiled in Berlin on Tuesday evening. Nearly 400 guests witnessed the first public appearance of the Audi factory Formula 1 team at the Kraftwerk event location in the center of the German capital.

“Today, a lot of pieces of the puzzle are coming together,” said Gernot Döllner, CEO of AUDI AG and Chairman of the Board of Management of Audi Motorsport AG, at the team presentation. “It’s impressive to see how the intensive preparation is paying off and the performance of those involved is becoming evident. For the first time, the full power of the project is on display. We are ready and excited to inspire people around the world by taking part in Formula 1.”

Audi is set to make its debut at the pinnacle of motorsport in Australia on March 8. The Audi R26 is powered by a drivetrain (‘power unit’) developed at the Neuburg an der Donau facility and labelled AFR 26 Hybrid. It was fired up in the chassis for the first time shortly before Christmas at the Hinwil site. On January 9, the team completed its first rollout at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya in Spain as part of a filming day.

Formula 1 is undergoing the biggest upheaval in its history: the racing series will enter its 77th season in 2026 with largely new technical regulations. The new race cars feature active aerodynamics with front and rear wings that can be adjusted while driving. The previous Drag Reduction System (DRS) will be replaced by a ‘boost mode,’ which delivers maximum additional electric power at the push of a button. This can be used for overtaking or defending. With up to 350 kW, the electric motor has almost as much power as the approximately 400 kW 1.6-liter V6 turbo engine, which runs on sustainable fuel. Audi is working exclusively with the British company bp in this area.

In addition to the race livery and other partners, Team Principal, Jonathan Wheatley, and Mattia Binotto, Head of Audi F1 Project, also presented the new team clothing and driver overalls in Berlin, which the two Audi drivers Gabriel Bortoleto (Brazil) and Nico Hülkenberg (Germany) will wear in the 2026 season. The team’s accompanying fan collection will be available via the team’s website and adidas from February 19. It is part of a carefully coordinated overall visual identity: a unique corporate identity, including specific colors and a new font family, was developed for Audi Revolut F1 Team, giving the team a distinct identity from its appearance at the racetrack to its presence on social media, while still being unmistakably Audi. The color Titanium references the company’s motorsport tradition and represents performance and technical precision. In addition, the newly introduced Audi Red is a distinguishing feature of the team.

The staging in the unique architecture of the former ‘Mitte’ heating plant on Tuesday evening gave guests a preview of the visual appearance – including an immersive show, historic Audi race cars, and the most powerful Audi production vehicle. The Audi RS e-tron GT performance1 is almost as powerful as the Audi R26 from Formula 1, with a system output of 680 kW (925 hp).

The next major milestone for Audi Revolut F1 Team will be the shakedown of the new generation Formula 1 cars, which will take place behind closed doors at Barcelona from January 26 to 30. During the official test sessions in Bahrain (February 11–13 and February 18–20), the Audi R26 will complete its final test laps before the first participation of Audi in a Formula 1 Grand Prix.

Formula 1 entry is part of the strategic realignment of Audi

The Formula 1 project is a strategic flagship for Audi, reflecting the technological, cultural and entrepreneurial realignment of the brand. It is intended to inspire customers and employees alike. Development and racing take place within an economically attractive framework: a cost cap applicable to all teams ensures a clearly defined budget and levelled conditions, while the global reach of Formula 1 offers strong brand exposure and sponsorship opportunities. With far‑reaching changes to the technical regulations, including a higher share of electric power and the introduction of sustainable fuels, the timing is ideal for Audi to enter the pinnacle of motorsport as a new competitor.

Motorsport is part of the Audi DNA and has always been a driving force for technological progress and innovation. From the first mid-engine Grand Prix car to quattro all-wheel drive in rallying, to diesel, hybrid and electric powertrains at Le Mans, in Formula E and at the Dakar Rally, Audi has led every motorsport project to success with determination, courage, perseverance and team spirit, always pioneering new ground. The Formula 1 involvement of Audi is intended to build on this.

Content Hub as the central point of contact for media

With the team presentation in Berlin, Audi Revolut F1 Team’s new Content Hub has also gone online. It serves as a central repository for exclusive team content, including news, insights, and regular updates around race weekends. Media representatives can register to join the media distribution list and receive future releases and updates: contenthub.audif1.com

Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com

Audi Tradition kicks off the 2026 event season with three highlights on a single weekend: at the end of January, the Bremen Classic Motorshow, the F.A.T. Ice Race in Zell am See, and the Concours event “The I.C.E.” in St. Moritz are on the schedule. The Audi museum mobile in Ingolstadt, Germany, welcomes visitors to International Museum Day on May 17 and Night of the Museums on September 12. Regular updates and additional information on all events at which Audi Tradition showcases the history of the four rings and their historic brands are available in the Audi Tradition app.

The Bremen Classic Motorshow (January 30–February 1) in Bremen, Germany, marks the start of this year's program: Audi Tradition will commemorate the premiere of the Audi A3 30 years ago and will offer guidance to visitors interested in spare parts for classics and modern classics from Audi. Nine-time Le Mans winner Tom Kristensen is set to turn laps in an Audi Sport quattro S1 E2 at “The I.C.E.” on January 30 and 31 in St. Moritz on the frozen Lake Moritz in Switzerland, and on Saturday, January 31, two-time German rally champion Harald Demuth will be driving an Audi quattro Rallye A2 at the F.A.T. Ice Race in Zell am See, Austria. Every year, motorsport fans from all over the world make the pilgrimage to the Festival of Speed in Goodwood, England – this year's event will take place from July 9 to 12, and Audi Tradition will once again be there to meet the fans. Things will also be sporting at the Eifel Rallye Festival (July 23-25) in Daun in the Vulkaneifel mountains of Germany. Furthermore, Audi Tradition will be bringing vehicles out of storage for the Heidelberg Historic (July 9-11) and the Donau Classic (July 17-18).

The Audi Tradition app provides regular updates and further information on special exhibitions at the Audi museum mobile and events at which Audi Tradition presents classics from the company's history. The free app can be downloaded from the major app stores for iOS and Android smartphones.

Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com

The AUDI E5 Sportback today won the 2026 China Car of the Year award, voted on by a panel of industry media experts. The E5 Sportback is the first model from a newly established brand to receive this accolade just one year after the marque’s debut. Blending the engineering excellence of Audi with China’s digital innovation ecosystem, the E5 Sportback successfully addresses the expectations of new Chinese customer segments. The AUDI brand has taken up a distinctive position in China’s premium electric vehicle market, bringing the best of both worlds together. Since its debut, the first model garnered a series of prestigious industry awards, including 2025 Most Popular Premium Car, Intelligent Premium Sedan of the Year, Best Handling Sedan of the Year, and Best Design Sedan of the Year.

Gernot Döllner, CEO of AUDI AG, says: “This award validates our unique approach in China with two strong brands and deep integration of local innovation. Through the AUDI brand, we are attracting new customers and strengthening our position in the world's most competitive market. Consumer and expert feedback demonstrates that our ongoing transformation journey in China toward electrification and intelligent connected driving is on course.”

“It is a great honor to receive the China Car of the Year award for the AUDI E5 Sportback. As the first model from the new AUDI brand, it truly represents the brand’s spirit: the best of both worlds. The AUDI brand was conceived from a deep understanding of the Chinese market,” says Fermín Soneira, CEO of the Audi and SAIC cooperation project. “It addresses a new generation of Chinese consumers who want Audi’s driving dynamics, quality, and safety, as well as seamless integration into their intelligent digital ecosystem. The E5 Sportback is the exact embodiment of this holistic premium commitment.”

The four-door AUDI E5 Sportback is a fully electric fastback with dynamic proportions that delivers up to 579 kW and a maximum range of 770 km. Four available powertrains offer rear-wheel or quattro drive, accelerating from 0-100 km/h in as little as 3.4 seconds. Built on the new Advanced Digitized Platform (ADP), the E5 Sportback offers next-generation connected vehicle functionality and full car over-the-air updates.

Market recognition of the AUDI brand’s first model is rooted in four core pillars building its product experience: its pioneering interpretation of the exclusive design language; its driving performance that inherits the authentic Audi driving DNA while setting a new benchmark for electric driving pleasure with precise handling; the premium quality conveyed through carefully selected materials and a serene cabin; and the uncompromising commitment to safety, demonstrated by the standardization of advanced driver-assistance systems across the entire model range.

Delivering at high speed: the AUDI brand’s first year

The AUDI brand launched in Shanghai in November 2024, with the E5 Sportback debuting as the first production model at the Shanghai Auto Show in April 2025. Production in accordance with Audi’s global standards began at the dedicated AUDI Intelligent Production Site in Shanghai in August. The order books for the E5 Sportback opened on the same day. Customer deliveries commenced following the model’s official market launch in September. At the Guangzhou Auto Show in November 2025, the AUDI E SUV concept made its debut as AUDI’s second concept car, marking the brand’s ambition to pioneer the premium all-electric SUV segment. The AUDI E7X, a production model based on the E SUV concept, launches in 2026.

Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com