By LONG Yun & BI Weizi

Mr. Helmut Stettner. (COURTESY PHOTO)

The automotive industry is currently undergoing a transformation as it steers toward widespread adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). One key figure at the forefront of this change is Helmut Stettner, the CEO of Audi FAW NEV Company, which is located in Changchun, northeast China's Jilin province. This German expert is leading the setup of a groundbreaking new production site for fully electric models in Changchun.

Recently, he shared his views on the future of the automotive industry and the rapidly evolving Chinese market with Science and Technology Daily.

Key steps

In 1999, Stettner took the position of head of production at quattro GmbH, Audi Group and was responsible for the start of production of the iconic Audi R8 high-performance sports car at the Audi plant in Neckarsulm, Germany. It was his first experience in challenging the increase of small series production, which set the stage for his future career.

The next important chapter in Stettner's career saw him take on the role of plant and production director at FAW-VW Automotive Company in Changchun. "I have been responsible for [this company's] production for five years and gained a lot of experiences in this international environment," he said.

Returning to Neckarsulm, Stettner assumed the role of plant manager at the Audi plant, where he oversaw the entire production site. He said that "the responsibility for a complete production site is very special," adding that managing a plant renowned for its extensive variety of models within the Volkswagen Group was no small feat.

These key steps shaped Stettner's perception on the automotive industry.

A great opportunity

In 2011, Stettner became the plant and production director at FAW-VW Automotive in Changchun. With the support of a strong team at this company, he quickly adapted to his new role, immersing himself in the Chinese market.

Establishing a new production plant for EVs until 2024 presents unique challenges and opportunities, he said, adding that "This is a great opportunity and one of the most beautiful challenges I can have as an automotive production expert." Stettner views this endeavor as an extraordinary opportunity, as it involves not only building a new production plant from scratch but also establishing an entirely new company.

According to Stettner, with decades-long expertise within the Volkswagen Group, the new plant in Changchun will also introduce innovative elements, including the adoption of a single IT infrastructure and the implementation of the "Mission: Zero" environmental program for CO2-neutral production. The company aims to set new standards in sustainability, efficiency and digitalization.

A promising market

When talking about the future of the new energy vehicle (NEV) industry, Stettner emphasized that, "The future of mobility is electric." He pointed out that NEVs already held a substantial market share in China in 2022, and predicted that they would surpass traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, even sooner than expected.

The Audi FAW NEV Company plays a pivotal role in Audi's global electrification strategy, with plans to produce EVs based on the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) specifically tailored to the Chinese market.

"The Chinese market has enormous potential and is growing rapidly in the field of NEVs," said Stettner. According to the German expert, several factors attributed to China's rapid development in the NEV sector. Supportive government policies, robust charging infrastructure and a focus on automated driving have served as an important role in contributing to this growth.

At the same time, Chinese customers' openness to new technologies and innovations, particularly in connectivity, has also been a driving force.

As a result, Audi aims to leverage these factors by expanding its local research and development efforts, also with the Audi FAW NEV Company, and offering products and services designed specifically for Chinese customers.

As the automotive industry transitions to EVs, Stettner emphasized the importance of understanding the customer needs and delivering the right offerings. He expressed confidence in the "rapid pace of change towards e-mobility in China" and Audi's ability to meet these evolving demands.

"Changchun, my second home"

In 2022, Stettner was presented with the Chinese Government Friendship Award for his tremendous contribution to promoting international cooperation.

"Changchun has become a second home for me. Since my first day here, I really enjoy working in this promising city," said Stettner. He shared his deep appreciation for Chinese culture, of which he says Chinese people are the most appealing part.

He described the Chinese people as friendly, focused, and future-oriented based on his experiences and observations in Changchun.

"Chinese people are curious and open-minded in relation to the future, with a high flexibility to react to change. That also explains the strong and quick development of the Chinese [auto] industry, especially regarding new technologies," he said.