President Donald Trump announced Saturday that Audi, the German luxury automaker owned by Volkswagen, will invest $4.2 billion to build its first U.S. manufacturing facility in Macon, Georgia, marking the largest single investment in the U.S. auto industry in modern history.
Construction is scheduled to begin next month on a 1,500-acre site, with plans to produce 200,000 vehicles annually, including premium SUV models such as the Q7, Q8, and Q9. The facility is expected to create at least 4,500 jobs, with commercial production targeted for 2031.
Speaking at a campaign rally in Perry, Georgia, Trump stated, “This will be the single largest investment in U.S. auto industry history, modern history.” He credited his administration’s policies, particularly tariffs, for securing the deal, asserting, “Without tariffs, they wouldn’t be coming in.”
Audi Chairman and CEO Gernot Döllner joined Trump on stage, calling the project “a fantastic opportunity” and emphasizing Audi’s long-term commitment to the American market. “We have not yet realized our full potential,” Döllner said. “We are determined to change that—with premium products, a stronger brand and a competitive local production base.”
The announcement coincided with Trump’s final campaign push ahead of the midterm elections, where Republicans are seeking to maintain control of the House and Senate. The event was held at the Guardian Centers of Georgia, a facility used for first responder training, where Trump rallied supporters ahead of closely contested races, including the Senate race featuring Republican Rep. Mike Collins and Democratic Sen. Jon Ossoff.
In a joint statement, Döllner and U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick highlighted the agreement as a milestone for both Audi and American manufacturing. The deal follows Volkswagen’s broader strategy to expand its U.S. footprint, with Audi positioning the Georgia plant as part of a long-term growth plan rather than a short-term cost-saving measure.
The plant’s location in Macon, approximately 20 miles from the rally site, was selected for its access to transportation infrastructure and skilled labor pool. Local officials praised the investment as a boost to Georgia’s economy, while labor advocates noted the potential for unionization discussions given the scale of the operation.
The project’s timeline includes an initial construction phase beginning in November 2026, with phased hiring expected to ramp up over the next five years. Audi has not disclosed additional details about supplier partnerships or potential incentives received from state or local governments to facilitate the investment.
The announcement comes amid broader debates over U.S. trade policy, with critics arguing that tariffs increase costs for American consumers and businesses. Supporters, including Trump, contend that such measures have revitalized domestic industries and attracted foreign investment.
Audi’s decision to establish its first U.S. plant in Georgia follows similar moves by other European automakers, including BMW and Mercedes-Benz, which have expanded operations in the Southeast in recent years. The state has positioned itself as a hub for automotive manufacturing, offering tax incentives and a business-friendly environment.
The project’s success will depend on market demand for premium SUVs, supply chain stability, and Audi’s ability to integrate the new facility into its global production network. Industry analysts will monitor whether the plant meets its production targets and job creation goals by the 2031 deadline.