Imported models enjoyed above-average growth of 89%, to reach a record total of 57,888 units (without Hong Kong). Locally built vehicles posted 252,000 units, representing growth of 29%.

This figure has yet again outstripped our sales forecast by some distance. Particularly the premium segment in China is making very healthy progress—in our view it continues to offer very good growth potential.

—Peter Schwarzenbauer, AUDI AG Board Member for Marketing and Sales

Among the models built in Changchun, the Audi Q5 remained market leader of its segment, with 54,260 units delivered, up 93%. The long-wheelbase version of the A4 likewise reached a new record total of 84,508 deliveries, up 52%. Sales of the Audi A6L reached 113,232 units; the new generation of this model is due to for launch in the first half of 2012.

The growth drivers among the imported models were the Audi Q7, with 19,063 units delivered (up 70%), followed by the Audi A8L with 12,425 units (up 153%). China is the biggest market in the world for both models.

Last year, Audi production capacity at the FAW-VW joint venture in Changchun was stepped up to 300,000 units. In December, Audi and FAW-VW jointly announced their future production plans at a new plant in Foshan, in South China. Audi production at the Foshan plant will commence from 2013 on, with a volume of 150,000 to 200,000 units.