Audi to build $4.2bn plant in US: Trump unveils project

Trump announces major Audi project

US President Donald Trump personally presented the plans of German carmaker Audi for its entry into the American market. During a pre-election rally, he invited the company's chief executive Gernot Döllner on stage to announce the investment.

The investment amount will be approximately $4.2 billion. The funds will be directed towards the construction of the brand's first plant on US territory.

Production of premium SUVs

The new facility will be located in the state of Georgia. The main focus of production will be on large premium-class SUVs.

Models that may appear on the assembly line include the Audi Q7, Q8, and Q9. The plant's annual capacity will reach 200,000 vehicles.

Jobs and launch timelines

The implementation of the project involves the creation of approximately 4,500 new jobs. Full ramp-up to designed capacity is expected by 2031.

Impact of tariff policy

A key factor in relocating part of production to the US was the trade policy of the American administration. According to Audi, automotive tariffs caused the company additional costs of approximately €1.2 billion last year.

Until now, supplies to the American market were made primarily from plants in Europe and Mexico. Local assembly will allow reducing dependence on import duties.

Union reaction and changes in Germany

Meanwhile, Audi continues to optimise costs in Germany. The company previously announced its intention to cut its workforce by 7,500 by the end of 2029.

The IG Metall union generally supported the manufacturer's entry into the American market. However, the organisation demands guarantees of job preservation and protection of the interests of German enterprises.

The large-scale investment is set to strengthen Audi's position in one of the world's largest car markets, while intensifying the debate around the future of industrial production in Germany.