The four rings car-making operation is coming to America.
Audi has confirmed it will spend USD$4 billion to begin building its first U.S. plant in Georgia in 2027, with an aim to start production early next decade. The plant is expected to create 4,500 jobs and produce up to 200,000 vehicles annually.
No products for the new U.S. plant were announced, but Audi tipped its hand to some degree in its press release (see below), by mentioning SUVs. It also included a close-cropped photo of the forthcoming all-new, full-size Q9 SUV (pictured).
Production for the Q9 is slated to begin in the Volkswagen Group’s Bratislava plant in Slovakia later this year, but it will launch first in North America, which is unusual for Audi which typically rolls out new models in Europe first.
The Bratislava plant also produces the Q7 and Q8 SUVs, which are mechanically related to the Q9. It is conceivable that all three could have their North American production moved to the U.S. plant. Given that the plant is designed to serve North America, where SUVs reign supreme, it would be surprising if the Georgia plant didn’t produce SUVs.
For evidence of the importance of SUVs in North America, we need look no further than BMW’s sprawling South Carolina plant, which produces only utilities although it has built cars in the past. We expect Audi to follow suit, but time will tell.
For more information, see the official Audi statement below.
Audi to establish first U.S. production site in Georgia, investing $4 billion and creating 4,500 jobs
Ingolstadt/Perry (USA), October 25, 2026 — Audi is taking a major step in its global growth strategy with plans to establish its first U.S. production site in Georgia. The company intends to invest around $4 billion and create approximately 4,500 jobs. Construction of the plant, designed for an annual production capacity of up to 200,000 vehicles, is scheduled to begin in 2027, with production planned to start in the early 2030s.
With premium SUVs tailored to North American customers and manufactured locally, Audi aims to unlock significant growth potential in one of the world’s most important premium markets. The planned investment intends to mark a long-term commitment to the United States and to establish North America as a third major pillar of Audi's global production network alongside Europe and China.
Growing in America, for America
As the world’s second-largest premium market, the U.S. offers significant growth potential for Audi. Establishing local production is a key element of a broader growth strategy focused on customer needs, a compelling product portfolio and a more competitive business model. The planned investment is part of a long-term strategy for profitable growth.
Gernot Döllner, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG, says: “We have much greater ambitions for Audi in America. The United States is one of the world's most important premium markets, and we have not yet realized our full potential. We are determined to change that — with premium products, a stronger brand and a competitive local production base. This is about building a stronger Audi business in America — not only about building a factory.”
Building Audi’s first U.S. production site
Georgia combines an investment-ready site, skilled workforce, established automotive supplier network and strong logistics infrastructure. The Middle Georgia Mega Site also provides the flexibility and space for future expansion.
The plant will be designed around Audi’s future manufacturing requirements, with a focus on efficiency, flexibility and the ability to respond to evolving customer needs and market demand.
Gerd Walker, Member of the Board of Management of AUDI AG for Production and Logistics, says: “Building a new plant from the ground up allows us to rethink manufacturing from day one. We can design highly efficient and flexible production processes, integrate advanced technologies and develop a strong local supplier network. Our ambition is to establish a benchmark for premium manufacturing that strengthens Audi’s global production network.”
With approximately 4,500 planned jobs, the investment is also expected to create opportunities for suppliers, service providers and training partners in the region.
Brian P. Kemp, Governor of Georgia, says: “Georgia has built a reputation as a place where global companies come to shape the future of their industries. Audi’s decision to establish its first American manufacturing plant here is another defining moment in that journey. We are proud to welcome one of the world’s most iconic automotive brands to Georgia. Together, we have an opportunity to create lasting economic prosperity, open new doors for our communities and help shape the next generation of American automotive manufacturing.”
Strengthening Audi’s global competitiveness
A stronger presence in North America will help Audi build a more balanced and resilient global business, reduce exposure to trade and currency risks, and create additional opportunities for profitable growth.
Germany and Europe will remain the industrial backbone of Audi, with their engineering expertise, technological capabilities and production competence. The expansion in North America complements the existing production network and supports Audi’s long-term ambition to strengthen its competitiveness worldwide.
Manfred Döss, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of AUDI AG, says: “Audi’s future will not be secured by cost reductions, increased efficiency and outstanding technology alone. We need the courage to invest, to pursue new opportunities and to make decisions that will shape our company for decades to come. This planned investment demonstrates our determination to do exactly that.”
Photos courtesy of Audi AG
