Audi’s long delay in establishing U.S. manufacturing—nearly two decades after competitors—has been attributed to the brand’s cautious approach, prioritizing global production efficiency over domestic assembly. The decision to bypass Volkswagen Group’s existing U.S. plants in favor of a new facility in Georgia reflects strategic considerations, including potential cost advantages and operational flexibility. Industry insiders suggest Audi sought to avoid supply chain dependencies tied to legacy Volkswagen operations while securing a tailored production environment. The move underscores how automakers weigh legacy partnerships against long-term growth opportunities in a shifting market.
A former Audi of America president explains why the brand waited nearly two decades to commit to U.S. production and why it bypassed existing Volkswagen Group plants in the U.S. for Georgia.
