Audi electric models for China arrive in Germany via parallel imports

Electric vehicle models developed by Audi and SAIC specifically for the Chinese market, such as the E5 Sportback and E7X, have begun appearing in Germany through parallel imports. These vehicles are being sold by independent importers like Auto China rather than through Audi’s official dealership network.

Because these models were designed for China, they lack the traditional Audi four-ring logo to distinguish them from the global brand core. The import process involves independent certification and homologation to meet European technical standards.

Prices in Germany are significantly higher than in China due to logistics, certification fees, and EU countervailing duties on Chinese-built electric vehicles, which include a 35.3 percent countervailing duty and a 10 percent base duty. For example, the E5 Sportback is priced around 60,000 euros in Germany, compared to approximately 26,000 euros in China. Despite the markup, these models remain more affordable than Audi’s official European electric lineup.