German automaker Audi has deepened its partnership with SAIC Motor, outlining plans to develop at least four new models for China as part of a broader push into the country's premium electric vehicle market.

This is part of the deal the two inked on Friday to expand collaboration around Audi's China-specific AUDI brand, with the new vehicles to be built on a next-generation platform tailored for intelligent connected cars.

The move signals a shift toward a more localized product cycle as foreign automakers face intensifying competition from domestic EV makers.

Audi's ambition is to remain highly competitive in China in the era of intelligent connected vehicles, CEO Gernot Doellner said in a statement, adding that the partnership with SAIC and the rollout of the AUDI brand have been key to reaching new customer segments.

The agreement also includes the establishment of an innovation technology center in Shanghai. To be led by Audi, the facility will focus on end-to-end vehicle development spanning electrification and intelligent connectivity.

Audi launched the AUDI brand in 2024 as part of its effort to regain momentum in China, its largest market.

The first production model, the E5 Sportback, went on sale in 2025, while a sport utility vehicle, the E7X, is set to debut at the Beijing auto show later this month. A third model is planned for 2027.

SAIC President Jia Jianxu said the expanded agreement builds on "proven collaboration strength" and will support further innovation in the premium EV segment.

Fermin Soneira, who leads the joint project, described the upgraded partnership and new R&D center as a "milestone" that will underpin the next phase of AUDI's development in China.