Artificial intelligence: Audi boosts production efficiency

Efficiency, improving quality, inspiration: Audi is leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) in many areas of the company to achieve these goals. The aim is to fully exploit the potential of AI and data – both in company processes and in the customer experience with services and products. AI is currently making the biggest impact in the areas of production and logistics. There, it not only helps save time and money, as Member of the Board of Management for Production and Logistics Gerd Walker explains: “AI is the game changer in our industry. By using it in a targeted way, we are creating a production environment that is not only more efficient and cost-effective but that also meets the highest quality standards and supports people as ideally as possible. That is why we are focusing on integrating AI wherever it is possible and makes sense and systematically expanding applications.” Audi currently uses more than 100 AI projects in various stages of development in its production facilities, which the company is gradually integrating into series production processes and expanding. At present, the focus is primarily on AI-supported quality monitoring and generative AI. Production has the highest data volume in the company Along with the introduction of new AI tools, Audi is pressing ahead with the systematic expansion of its data organization. Particularly in the area of production, the volume of data is higher than anywhere else in the company: hundreds of petabytes of data already exist, and thousands of gigabytes of new data are created every day. Gerd Walker explains the potential of this data density: “Artificial intelligence enables us to make more extensive use of our enormous wealth of data in production and accelerates the journey of our 360factory towards becoming a data-driven factory.” The 360factory is Audi’s production strategy for fully connected, innovative, and sustainable manufacturing. Saving time with generative AI: the “Tender Toucan” project Audi recently started utilizing artificial intelligence to analyze bids as part of its tendering process. The AI tool called “Tender Toucan” uses a set of specifications to create a list of requirements, searches for the relevant sections in the bids, and evaluates the degree to which they are fulfilled. Employees check and complete the tool’s work but enjoy time savings of up to 30 percent. “Tender Toucan” will be introduced for the series production planning of drivetrains and high-voltage batteries in the summer; a further rollout is planned at Audi and in the Volkswagen Group. The development of “Tender Toucan” also serves as a basis for many other AI applications at Audi. Quality improvement through AI-supported quality monitoring: the “IRIS” and “WSD” projects An AI application for image processing has recently been implemented at the Ingolstadt and Neckarsulm assembly plants. Called “IRIS”, the tool uses cameras to check whether labels with technical data are correctly attached to the vehicle. More specifically, the label with the right content in the right language must be attached to the right component in the right position. This ensures the conformity of the vehicles. Employees continue to perform spot checks. The “IRIS” label check saves roughly one minute of production time per vehicle. Audi recently joined forces with Siemens to introduce another AI-supported quality check to series production in the body shop in Neckarsulm. Previously, employees manually inspected the underbody for weld splatter and then removed it. Now the so-called “Weld Splatter Detection” (WSD) application uses AI to detect possible weld splatter on vehicle underbodies. These metal deposits could lead to such things as cable breakages. In a further expansion stage starting in summer 2025, a robotic arm will automatically remove the weld splatter itself. In doing so, the “WSD” AI application not only saves time in production, but also improves occupational safety and ergonomics for employees. Audi’s strong AI network: the IPAI in Heilbronn To make the best possible use of artificial intelligence, Audi has built a strong network of experts in the field of artificial intelligence over the past several years. Audi cooperates closely with the IPAI (Innovation Park Artificial Intelligence) in Heilbronn, among others. The IPAI is set to become Europe’s largest AI network and will begin constructing a 23-hectare campus this year. As a member of the Heilbronn-based think tank, Audi will have its own office at the new campus, as it does on the current IPAI site. The Audi Böllinger Höfe site is also located in the immediate vicinity. This Audi location for small series production serves as a real-world laboratory for digital production technologies as part of AI25 (Automotive Initiative 2025), an innovation network for digital transformation in the automotive industry. Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com

Nine generations of success: the new Audi A6 meets its elders

Audi has built almost ten million C-series vehicles. The ninth generation is now on sale in Europe – the A6 Avant. A great opportunity for a family photo with Audi employees presenting their C models from across the generations. The all-new Audi A6 Avant is more dynamic, efficient, and digital than ever before and stands for first-class travel like no other vehicle in the premium full-size class. It has been available in dealerships across Europe since May 16, and the A6 Sedan will be launched at the end of July. The two new A6 models are based on the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) and are powered by modern gasoline and diesel engines. The mild hybrid technology MHEV plus supports the combustion engine, enhances performance and driving comfort, and reduces CO2 emissions. Whether on long trips or in the city, the adaptive air suspension and all-wheel steering ensure a smooth ride and agile handling in equal measure. The all-new Audi A6 Avant unites elegant, dynamic design with exceptional aerodynamics. Audi is also offering both the Avant and Sedan as plug-in hybrids. With the ninth generation built in Neckarsulm, Audi is continuing the success story of the C series. With the Audi 100, the brand with the four rings succeeded in moving up into the premium mid-size segment in 1968. The Audi 100 (C1 to C4) won the Golden Steering Wheel five times; it was also named Car of the Year twice and World Car of the Year once. A total of 3.2 million Audi 100s were sold, underscoring the success and popularity of the model series. The generations that followed the C1 demonstrated Vorsprung durch Technik with numerous innovations such as the fully galvanized body, optimized aerodynamics, and highly efficient engines. The Audi 100 has been called the Audi A6 since 1994. Audi has built almost ten million C-series vehicles since 1968 – 9,836,762 as of April 2025 to be exact. Big numbers from a long history. However, the enthusiasm and passion for the C series go much deeper than that, in the Audi workforce too. To create a very special photo, eight employees – each with a C model from one of the generations C1 to C8 – gathered at the Audi Piazza in Ingolstadt in front of the museum mobile to welcome the new C9 Audi A6 Avant to the family. Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com

Tenth Škoda Student Car, named L&K 130, to be unveiled next week

Next week, 28 students from the Škoda Auto Secondary Vocational School of Engineering will unveil the tenth Škoda Student Car, named the Škoda L&K 130. The designation of this one-off vehicle reflects Škoda Auto’s 130-year heritage, as does its striking colour scheme. The combination of red, gold and black pays tribute to the original Laurin & Klement logo used on the company’s earliest cars in 1905. A tribute to the legacy of Václav Laurin and Václav Klement Škoda Auto’s 130th anniversary has been woven into every detail of the new Student Car. Scheduled for unveiling in mid-June, the Škoda L&K 130 references the Czech automaker’s rich heritage, which began with founders Václav Laurin and Václav Klement in 1895. Colour scheme inspired by the historic 1905 L&K logo The Laurin & Klement legacy extends beyond the vehicle’s name. Selected from numerous student-submitted designs, the colour scheme echoes the original 1905 company logo. Its elegant combination of gold, deep red and black complements the modern contours of the student-designed vehicle as effectively as it did the classic grille of the Voiturette A – the very first car to bear the Laurin & Klement name. Inside, this historical theme continues, with the seats, dashboard, door panels and steering wheel upholstered in sustainable materials inspired by Škoda’s heritage. All ten Škoda Student Cars on display This year’s Škoda Student Car marks the tenth remarkable one-off creation by students at the Škoda Auto Secondary Vocational School of Engineering in Mladá Boleslav. To celebrate this milestone, all nine previous Student Cars, from the 2014 Citijet to the 2023 Roadiaq, will be exhibited alongside the new L&K 130 at its official unveiling next week. Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

Volkswagen is a partner of the UEFA Women’s EURO 2025

Volkswagen is back on the UEFA football pitch. The car manufacturer will be a partner of the UEFA Women’s EURO 2025. The UEFA Women’s European Championship will be held in Switzerland from 2 to 27 July. Volkswagen was already involved as a partner for the UEFA at the 2022 Women´s EURO in England 2022. Christine Wolburg, Chief Brand Officer of the Volkswagen brand: "As a matter of conviction, we have supported both football of women and women in football for many years now. Sponsoring the UEFA Women’s EURO this summer is therefore a further sign of our commitment to visibility, fairness and genuine participation.” As in the last tournament, Volkswagen is pursuing a second major goal with the partnership in addition to the attitude campaign: “We are also using the stage to present our models from the all-electric ID. family to an international audience”, Wolburg announces. Volkswagen is a partner not only of the UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 but also of seven of the 16 participating national teams: in addition to Germany and host Switzerland, these are France, the Netherlands, Denmark, Finland and Italy. In these countries, sponsorship agreements have been signed between the respective Volkswagen importers and the national football associations. Volkswagen will also be organising activities in other football-loving markets before and during the European Championship. Guy-Laurent Epstein, UEFA Marketing Director, said: “UEFA is delighted to welcome Volkswagen back as an official UEFA Women’s EURO sponsor. Their continued support demonstrates a shared belief in the power and potential of the women’s game. As the tournament kicks off soon across Switzerland, this partnership helps us not only deliver a record-breaking competition but also drive meaningful investment into the growth of women’s football and create more opportunities for women and girls at every level of the sport.” UEFA Women’s EURO is set to take place across eight host cities in Switzerland and is expected to be the most successful edition to date, with record-breaking attendance, investment and fan engagement. Alexandra Popp, EURO ambassador for Volkswagen,German national player with 145 caps and Captain of VfL Wolfsburg: "Football of women has taken a fantastic leap forward in recent years: professionalism, quality and attention have developed extremely positively. Volkswagen has supported us from the very beginning – both at club level with VfL Wolfsburg and also at national level in the German Football Association, and in Europe, as now at the UEFA Women’s EURO. This commitment and this recognition are highly appreciated in the football world.” At the last UEFA Women’s EURO, which had to be postponed from 2021 to 2022 due to the Coronavirus pandemic, Volkswagen attracted attention with its #KeinFrauenfußball, or #NotWomensFootball, attitude campaign. With this deliberately provocative slogan, it was pointed out that general language use differs between football and women’s football – as if they were different sports. The women’s team at VfL Wolfsburg, a wholly owned subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, also benefits from the company’s support: for twelve years now, the female footballers from this German football club have been among the most successful in Europe, winning not only the UEFA Women’s Champions League twice, but also the German championship seven times and the German Cup eleven times. Article source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com

Entering the premium class: Audi e-tron GT quattro combines emotional design, performance, and comfort

Audi is expanding its Gran Turismo family. The Audi e-tron GT quattro1 makes entering the battery-electric premium segment even more attractive. The new model is available now. The Audi e-tron GT quattro1 rounds off the existing GT family with the S e-tron GT2, RS e-tron GT3, and the RS e-tron GT performance4. The vehicle has a system output of 370 kW (430 kW with Launch Control). Thanks to a gross battery capacity of 105 kWh (net 97 kWh) and a range of up to 622 kilometers (386.5 mi), the Audi e-tron GT quattro1 is ideally equipped for everyday use – whether driving on the highway or in city traffic. The base model also features a remarkable charging performance of up to 320 kW. This means that only short charging stops are needed, as the vehicle can recharge roughly 285 kilometers (177 mi) in just ten minutes. The high-voltage battery’s full charging power is available in an expanded thermal range. The e-tron route planner automatically preconditions the energy storage system, thus ensuring the best possible charging performance. Progressive – inside and out The Audi Gran Turismo philosophy is embodied not only by the model’s long-distance capability but also by its striking design language. Large wheels, a sleek coupé-like silhouette, and an extended wheelbase contribute to the vehicle’s sporty proportions. The low drag coefficient of 0.24 and the controllable air intakes deliver impressive efficiency with little driving noise – ideal for relaxed driving. At the front, a black mask accentuates the inverted Singleframe in the body color, while at the rear, an elegantly designed diffuser with vertical fins makes for a powerful finish. Dynamics meet everyday usability The sleek roofline gives the vehicle a dynamic contour. Located in the underbody, the high-voltage battery features strategically placed recesses in the battery pack that serve as footwells and provide generous seating comfort for all passengers. The driver and front passenger travel in luxury on eight-way adjustable sport seats with integrated headrests that prove particularly comfortable on long journeys. The rear seat backrest can be partially or completely folded down so that sporting equipment can be stowed in the 405-liter (14.3 cu ft) trunk. There is also a front luggage compartment with a volume of 77 liters (2.7 cu ft). Less weight, optimum balance The intelligent quattro system distributes the drive torque between the front and rear axles fully variably and at lightning speed, ensuring optimum traction in a wide range of driving conditions. To perform that task, the system analyzes the driving situation and adjusts the power distribution accordingly. Precise control of the drive is achieved in just a few milliseconds. The Audi e-tron GT quattro1 weighs about 30 kilograms (66.1 lbs) less than the S model, benefiting dynamics and efficiency in equal measure. Launch and prices Like the other GT models (S e-tron GT2, RS e-tron GT3, RS e-tron GT performance4), the new e-tron GT quattro1 is also being produced at the Audi Sport GmbH Böllinger Höfe plant in Neckarsulm. The entry-level model can be ordered now. Prices start at 108,900 euros. Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com 1. Audi e-tron GT quattro: Electric power consumption (combined): 19.3–17.8 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions (combined): 0 g/km; CO2 class: A 2. Audi S e-tron GT: Electric power consumption (combined): 19.7–18.0 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions (combined): 0 g/km; CO2 class: A 3. Audi RS e-tron GT: Electric power consumption (combined): 21.1–18.4 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions (combined): 0 g/km; CO2 class: A 4. Audi RS e-tron GT performance: Electric power consumption (combined): 20.8–18.7 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions (combined): 0 g/km; CO2 class: A

Top marks for a Volkswagen model once again: new Tayron achieves 5 stars in Euro NCAP

The new Volkswagen Tayron achieved first-class results in the latest Euro NCAP test and received the highest rating of five stars. The result underlines the outstanding safety equipment of the new model and, at the same time, the high standards of Volkswagen. Under the guiding principle of “Safety for All”, Volkswagen has been continuously working on innovations for decades to further increase road safety – in all vehicle segments, for all road users and for all relevant accident scenarios. Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) assessed the Tayron based on four criteria: Adult Occupant Protection, Child Occupant Protection, Vulnerable Road User Protection (e.g. pedestrians, cyclists, etc.) and the safety support provided by driver assist and accident prevention systems. The 5-star rating achieved by the new SUV stands for an outstanding overall score, which reflects not only the continuous improvement of safety standards, but also the excellent equipment featuring assist systems for accident prevention as standard. The new Tayron is equipped with the following assist systems already in the entry-level version: Autonomous Emergency Braking (Front Assist) with Pedestrian and Cyclist Monitoring Lane keeping system Lane Assist Dynamic Road Sign Display Predictive speed limiter Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) “stop & go” Lane change system Side Assist Oncoming vehicle braking when turning and swerve support Driver Attention Monitor and Driver Alert System Automatic Post-Collision Braking System Front Cross Traffic Assist Exit warning system In addition, other safety-relevant features form part of the standard equipment: Emergency Call Service, validity 10 years from initial delivery01 Front airbag for driver and front passenger, with front passenger front airbag deactivation Curtain and side airbags at front and rear, centre airbag at front Safety-optimised head restraints at front and rear Three-point automatic seat belt with belt tensioner for the outer rear seats Acoustic warning and warning lamp for unfastened belts, front and rear ISOFIX retaining rings for child seats on the outer rear seats and on the front passenger seat, compatible with i-Size Electronic Stability Control ESC and electromechanical brake servo Hill Start Assist Electronic parking brake, incl. Auto Hold function The new Tayron is available to order now. The new Volkswagen Tayron has recently taken its place in the product range between the compact Tiguan and the larger Touareg. The model offers a variable interior and is optionally available with a third row of seats – and thus seven seats. In addition, the new SUV impresses with an intuitive infotainment system and a high-quality interior at premium level. The new all-rounder is available as a petrol, diesel or plug-in hybrid model; the latter02 offers an excellent purely electric range of up to 127 km. A generous luggage compartment and a towing capacity of up to 2.5 tonnes03 make the Tayron the perfect companion for all life situations. About Euro NCAP: Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) is an organisation founded by European transport ministries, automotive clubs and insurance associations. The aim is to provide consumers with independent information on the safety of new vehicles. The Euro NCAP tests include various crash scenarios; the vehicles’ active safety systems are also evaluated. The detailed results of the Euro NCAP test are available at www.euroncap.com. Article source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com 01. Prerequisite: availability of required mobile networks 02. Tayron Life 1.5 eHybrid – power consumption weighted combined 18.5-17.0 kWh/100km plus fuel consumption battery discharged combined 0.5-0.4 l/100km; CO₂ emissions weighted combined 11-9 g/km; CO₂ class weighted combined: B; CO₂ class battery discharged: E-D 03. Optional equipment

Audi at 2025 Auto Shanghai: five debuts take the stage

China continues to lead the way in the transition to electric mobility. At 2025 Auto Shanghai, Audi is showcasing the models that will bring the company to the forefront of this trend locally and globally, while also remaining a strong player in the market for combustion-engine vehicles. The lineup displayed by Audi and its two local partners FAW and SAIC consists of 19 models. Among them are the Audi A5L, the A5L Sportback, the Q5L, and the A6L e-tron as well as the AUDI E5 Sportback. Audi is broadening and rejuvenating its China-specific portfolio from mid-2025 on, with the renewal set to continue over the next two years. The lineup will become even more flexible in terms of propulsion type as well as more digital thanks to the Premium Platform Electric, Premium Platform Combustion, and the Advanced Digitized Platform co-developed with SAIC for AUDI models. Audi CEO Gernot Döllner says: “2025 marks the start of a new era for Audi in China. At Auto Shanghai we are kicking off our strongest ever model initiative. Together with our two local partners FAW and SAIC, we are launching next-generation China-dedicated models. And with our new China-only brand AUDI we are reaching additional customer segments. Thanks to our all-new battery-electric and combustion-engine vehicles, we will actively shape the growing premium e-mobility market in China as well as the market for conventionally powered cars.” Audi brings five debuts to the main stage Five new production models take center stage at the Audi booth at the 2025 Auto Shanghai. Based on the Premium Platform Electric, Premium Platform Combustion, and Advanced Digitized Platform, the next generation of connected vehicles for China will combine authentic Audi DNA with features tailored to local user needs. Developed exclusively for China, the new models offer advanced combined driver-assistant technologies, enabling assisted driving for enhanced comfort and safety. A next-generation cockpit delivers fully customized digital experiences, including a state-of-the-art user experience and connectivity via the Audi MMI panoramic and passenger displays. All debuting models will be available to Chinese customers within the coming months. Audi A5L: The next generation of Audi’s bestselling mid-size family sedan will be produced and distributed by FAW Audi. With a wheelbase that is 77 millimeters longer than on the global versions of the A5, it offers far more interior space compared to the last generation. Ultra-modern combustion engines with 48-volt mild-hybrid technology based on the Premium Platform Combustion provide superior performance and high efficiency. A human-centric interior that includes the MMI panoramic display with a passenger display comes as standard in China. Audi A5L Sportback: SAIC Audi reveals its own version of the A5, which is also based on the technical foundation of Audi’s cutting-edge Premium Platform Combustion and a China-specific digital ecosystem. It too features the latest engine variants combining performance and efficiency, as well as best-in-class advanced combined driver-assistant functions. The design is a unique and unmistakable interpretation, especially towards the rear, which exemplifies the typical dynamic proportions of an Audi Sportback. Audi Q5L: The Audi Q5L is the third new model based on the Premium Platform Combustion. Under the hood, engines with 48-volt mild-hybrid technology deliver on the promise made by the dynamic and powerful silhouette. The wheelbase of the Q5L is 125 millimeters longer than the global model – significantly increasing interior space. Audi A6L e-tron: Following the Audi Q6L e-tron and Audi Q6L e-tron Sportback, the A6L e-tron is the third all-electric model based on the Premium Platform Electric, locally produced at the new Audi FAW NEV Company in Changchun. An increase to the wheelbase of 132 millimeters compared to the global model enables a maximum of comfort and space, especially for the second row of seats, while a bigger battery with a capacity of 107 kilowatt-hours sets benchmarks in terms of range (up to 770 kilometers) and efficiency alongside an advanced all-electric drivetrain with 800-volt technology. Short charging breaks are a further benefit of the Premium Platform Electric. AUDI E5 Sportback: The first production model from the new sister brand AUDI, the E5 Sportback was developed together with partner SAIC – integrating the “best of both worlds.” The fully electric mid-size Sportback offers the DNA, design, and experience of Audi, plus the digital ecosystem and development speed of China. Powered by a rear-wheel or quattro drivetrain with an output of up to 579 kilowatts, the AUDI E5 accelerates from 0 to 100 kilometers an hour in only 3.4 seconds and offers a range of up to 770 kilometers. The model is a typical Audi in terms of dynamics and comfort thanks to quattro all-wheel drive and adaptive air suspension. At the same time, the first AUDI production model features a completely new and surprising design from every angle. The E5 Sportback, with its enhanced driver assistance systems, unique interior features and user-centric design approach created from the ground up, will go on sale only a few months after its debut. With this fleet of firsts, the Audi booth at Auto Shanghai 2025 shows how the company is delivering on key promises. Marco Schubert, Member of the Board for Sales and Marketing at AUDI AG, says: “We are positioning ourselves in China with a portfolio that will excite and inspire our loyal customers and new target groups. With our new models, we offer the best choice of premium mobility. Audi is also becoming even more digital with tailored features and infotainment systems. Chinese customers have a lot to look forward to!” Refreshed brand image at Audi booth Johannes Roscheck, President of Audi China, says: “Together with FAW and SAIC, we are proving that one plus one is more than two. Our dual-brand strategy accelerates innovation, delivering premium combustion-engine vehicles and leading electric vehicles that mark a new era of collaboration. At Auto Shanghai 2025, we are showcasing our vision at a single joint booth, designed with a refreshed brand identity and an immersive, shareable, and personalized experience.” Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com