Personality Split: Audi Takes Legal Action Against AUDI EVsAutoGuide.comMarcus LewinskyFri, September 18, 2026 at 2:45 PM UTCAdd us on GoogleAudi has begun legal proceedings against a German importer bringing its China-only electric cars into their home market, a spokesperson for the automaker confirmed to Automobilwoche.personality split audi takes legal action against audi evsThe dispute centers on the E5 Sportback and E7X, two EVs developed by Audi and SAIC for China and sold under the new AUDI brand, which deliberately drops the four rings and uses all-caps branding. The sub-brand was built to appeal to what Audi describes as "young, tech-savvy customers" wanting an alternative to the wider Audi-badged lineup, and the vehicles look distinct inside and out from the global range.German importer Auto China has been sourcing both models, homologating them, and offering them to local buyers. Audi responded by initiating legal action. "We have initiated legal proceedings against the importer and will rigorously enforce our rights," a spokesperson said.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe concern extends past the risk that the E5 Sportback and E7X cannibalize e-tron sales. Audi drew a clear line on service and warranty support, stating that "these vehicles are not exported to individual countries outside of China via an official distribution channel authorized by Audi AG and then registered under conditions unknown to us." The company added that "Audi AG and authorized Audi dealers outside of China cannot perform maintenance work because AUDI models are considered non-Audi vehicles in countries outside of China."personality split audi takes legal action against audi evsAuto China maintains that it can manage homologation, registration, warranty, and service support. A parallel-imported car does not join the official European dealer network, however, which raises practical questions around software, diagnostics, replacement parts, and repairs. Those concerns carry added weight for EVs loaded with sensors, cameras, and driver-assistance systems.Both models have since disappeared from the importer's website. When questioned by Automobilwoche, a spokesperson for the dealer declined to say whether the removal resulted from Audi's legal pressure. According to Automobilwoche, the site continues to list other Chinese vehicles from Xiaomi, Jetour, Zeekr, and Huawei, including the Maextro S800, and allows limited configuration of them.Become an AutoGuide insider. Get the latest from the automotive world first by subscribing to our newsletterhere.