Middle East is pleased with its great start to 2023, which has built on the brand's success in the prior year by achieving outstanding achievements and setting new benchmarks. Carsten Bender, the company's current managing director, leaves behind a really inspirational legacy as he moves to his new position within the German-based company. For the remainder of 2023, Audi Middle East keeps moving forward with a bright future. Audi Middle East experienced the strongest start to a year since 2015 in the first five months of 2023, when compared to the same period in 2022, with a spectacular 33% gain. Additionally, all Audi sedan and SUV models have shown notable year-over-year increases, with the volume of Audi Approved Plus vehicles witnessing a considerable 40% increase throughout the time period. These excellent outcomes demonstrate the robust performance and market presence of Audi Middle East in 2023.
The brand has steadily increased its lineup of electric vehicles with the launch of the top-tier Audi e-tron in 2018 and has established one of the most extensive portfolios on the market. The continued growth of EV sales and the expansion of its model lineup show Audi's dedication to electrification. Since its first release, the Audi e-tron GT has shown constant growth, with sales rising by an astounding 24% starting in 2022. Audi's strategic alliances and investments in the Middle East's electric car infrastructure have further contributed to this success.
The much-awaited Audi Q8 e-tron made its regional debut earlier this year, rounding out the roster. With this addition, Audi's lineup of electric vehicles (EVs) now includes a wide variety of vehicles, including sports cars, sedans, hatchbacks, and a substantially sized SUV. The launch of the Q8 e-tron further demonstrates Audi's dedication to developing its EV lineup in response to the market's rising demand for electric vehicles.
Additionally, Audi Middle East rejoices in the success of the limited-edition Audi Sport models. The Qatar RS Q8 special edition received widespread praise in 2022 and forever changed the performance market. Building on that success, Audi's introduction of the highly coveted KSA Kingdom edition this year demonstrated the company's commitment to providing exceptional driving experiences. These accomplishments pave the path for more exhilarating models to come, further establishing Audi as a pioneer in automotive innovation and performance.
The managing director of Audi Middle East, Carsten Bender, will say goodbye to Dubai and depart for Germany to continue his amazing journey with the Audi company. As his second stint in the area draws to an end after more than five years, Carsten reflects on his time there: "I am glad to have watched the tremendous growth and development of the region. The first half of 2023 has performed superbly, highlighting both the region's enormous promise and Audi's significant presence. I'm ecstatic to see the area embrace electrification and make important advancements in the car sector. Being a part of this crucial time has been an honor, especially in light of the 2018 debut of the first e-tron and the great momentum towards electrification. I have faith in the promising future that lies ahead.
"I'd like to express my appreciation to my friends, colleagues, and partners here, who have been so crucial in furthering the development of the Audi brand to ensure we stay at the top of our industry," he said.
As more clients in the area want luxury vehicles that are environmentally friendly, the company's continuous investment in sustainability and digitalization is projected to drive growth in the future.