Environmental protection and social involvement

AUDI AG wants to make economics and ecology mutually compatible. It openly communicates the measures taken for environmental protection at its sites and involves all employees in these efforts. The company implements its environment-policy goals over the long term. For this purpose, Audi has made intensive use in recent years of the Audi Production System (APS), in order to live up to many environmental aspects and Audi’s environmental policy at all levels. Within the framework of the APS, Audi’s environmental standards apply for the production operations in Changchun and in Foshan.

The new factory in Foshan is operated in accordance with ecological criteria. Various appropriate measures are taken such as heat recovery, process-water recirculation and extensive recycling. This helps the company to reduce CO₂ emissions by 100,000 tons each year.

In 2011, Audi started an efficiency program with its partner FAW-VW, which has meanwhile reduced the average fuel consumption of the Audi models produced in China by more than 20 percent. A substantial contribution was made by start-stop technology in all local models. In addition to start-stop and recuperation (energy recovery), the consistent use of lightweight construction also contributes to more efficiency. In 2012, Audi was the first manufacturer to integrate lightweight components in local production in China with the Audi A6 L. And of all the leading manufacturers, Audi also offers the broadest portfolio of hybrid models in the Chinese premium market (Audi Q5 hybrid quattro, Audi A6 hybrid and Audi A8 L hybrid).

Since 2006, Audi and Unicef have been cooperating in the Audi Driving Dreams project. This project opens up new perspectives to young people in China who have left school early and prepares them for working life. Audi is active in China also in various initiatives in the field of culture and sport. The company organizes the Audi Summer Concerts and the Audi quattro Cup. Furthermore, Audi supports the renowned Beijing Music Festival. And with the Audi Young Musician Plan, the company supports young, talented musicians.