Responsibility in the supply chain

The supply chain at Audi is subject to constant change and is also highly complex because of the large number of processing steps and materials involved. We interact with more than 14,000 direct suppliers from more than 60 countries. That adds up to a large responsibility, but at the same time it offers enormous potential to operate sustainably at critical positions. We take this duty seriously and work exclusively with partners who share our values. It is our conviction that our suppliers play a key role in our success when it comes to sustainability.

The possibilities and starting points for acting sustainably in the supply chain are as multi-layered as the supplier structure. Thanks to the consistent electrification of our vehicles, it is here that the majority of CO₂ emissions arise. That is why it is essential for us as part of the Audi CO₂ program to improve the CO₂ balance sheet in the supply chain even before our vehicles embark on their first kilometers on the road. To do this, we are focusing at various points on green energy, CO₂-reduced aluminum and CO₂-reduced steel as well as recycling concepts, and the use of secondary materials. Newly developed guidelines, which for example stipulate that only green energy is used by Audi partners, support our contract award processes and promote the use of renewable energy. In this way, we reduce negative impacts at the places where we cannot completely avoid them and generate positive effects everywhere that we can.

Since 2019 the so-called sustainability rating (S-Rating) helps us to check the sustainability performance of our suppliers. Participation in the S-Rating is mandatory and a prerequisite for a mutual business relationship. The individual assessment tools of the S-Rating focus on sustainable action at the company’s sites. The evaluation in the S-Rating determines whether a site is eligible as a supplier or not. On a page set up specifically for this purpose, you will find further information on the S-Rating, on participation and on free training offers that will help you to go through the process and, if necessary, improve your results.