Setting new milestones: Audi Middle East 2023 Performance Results.

• Audi achieves record-breaking results at the onset of 2023, driven by a 33% increase in new car sales in the Middle East, maintaining strong momentum throughout the year.
• Carsten Bender, Audi Middle East’s Managing Director, reflects on his role in driving electrification and establishing strategic partnerships during his tenure.
• Audi leads in sustainability and innovation with its expanding electric vehicle portfolio and strategic partnerships.

Dubai, UAE (15 June 2023)

The Middle East celebrates a successful start to 2023 building upon the brand’s success in the previous year with remarkable results and setting new milestones. The brand bids farewell to its current Managing Director, Carsten Bender, who leaves behind a truly inspiring legacy as he transitions to his new role within the brand, based in Germany. Audi Middle East forges ahead with a promising future for the rest of 2023.

In the first five months of 2023, Audi Middle East achieved a remarkable 33% growth compared to the same period in 2022, making it the strongest start to a year since 2015. Moreover, all Audi sedan and SUV models have experienced significant year-on-year growth; with Audi Approved Plus vehicles seeing a substantial 40% increase in volume for the period. These outstanding results highlight Audi Middle East’s strong performance and market presence in 2023.

Since the introduction of the world-class Audi e-tron in 2018, the brand has consistently expanded its portfolio of electric vehicles, establishing one of the most comprehensive offerings in the market. Audi’s commitment to electrification is evident in the continuous growth of EV sales and the expansion of its model range. The Audi e-tron GT, from its initial launch, has demonstrated consistent growth, experiencing a remarkable 24% increase in sales from 2022. This success is further bolstered by Audi’s strategic partnerships and investments in electric vehicle infrastructure across the Middle East.

Adding to the impressive lineup, earlier this year marked the regional premiere of the highly anticipated Audi Q8 e-tron. With this addition, Audi’s EV portfolio now features an extensive range of models, spanning sports cars, sedans, hatchbacks, and the generously proportioned SUV. The introduction of the Q8 e-tron further solidifies Audi’s commitment to expanding its EV offerings, catering to the growing demand for electric vehicles in the market.

In addition, Audi Middle East celebrates the triumph of Audi Sport’s exclusive editions. In 2022, the Qatar RS Q8 limited edition garnered significant acclaim, leaving an indelible mark on the performance segment. Building on that achievement, the launch of the highly sought-after KSA Kingdom edition this year further exemplified Audi’s dedication to delivering extraordinary driving experiences. These successes pave the way for more thrilling models on the horizon, further solidifying Audi’s position as a leader in automotive innovation and performance.

Carsten Bender, Audi Middle East’s Managing Director, will bid farewell to Dubai as he returns to Germany to embark on his continued remarkable journey with the Audi brand. Reflecting on his time in the region, Carsten says “As my second tenure in the region comes to an end after more than five years, I am proud to have witnessed the remarkable growth and development of the region. The first half of 2023 performance has been exceptional, showcasing the region’s immense potential and Audi’s strong presence. I am thrilled to see the region embrace electrification and make significant strides in the automotive industry. It has been an honour to be part of this formative period, especially with the launch of the first e-tron in 2018 and witnessing the incredible momentum towards electrification. I am confident in the bright future ahead.”

“I’d like to extend my gratitude to my friends, colleagues and partners here, who have been so instrumental in developing the Audi brand further to ensure we stay at the forefront of our industry.”

The move towards electrification and company’s continued investment into sustainability and digitalisation is expected to drive growth in the coming years, as more customers in the region seek out environmentally friendly luxury vehicles.