Audi is evaluating options to localize electric vehicle (EV) production in the United States in response to higher import tariffs, with possible plans to assemble certain models at existing or upcoming Volkswagen Group facilities, industry sources told Automobilwoche.
While Audi has not confirmed any shift in manufacturing strategy, speculation has emerged over potential U.S. assembly of the Q4 e-tron at Volkswagen’s Chattanooga plant in Tennessee, where the automaker has been producing the ID.4 SUV for the local market since mid-2022. The site is already equipped with the MEB platform, which underpins both models, and utilizes a partially localized supply chain that could benefit Audi’s operations.
See also: Audi Offers One Year of Free Electrify America DC Fast-Charging for New EV Buyers
In parallel, a second model, the larger Q8 e-tron, may also be relocated to North America. Originally slated for production in Mexico, the vehicle could instead be built at the VW Group’s new Scout Motors facility in Blythewood, South Carolina, sources said. That site, still under construction, is scheduled to begin output in 2027 and is expected to host electric off-road models based on a dedicated platform.
“On the sidelines of Auto Shanghai at the end of April, Audi CEO Gernot Döllner spoke of ‘various options for the US,’ ranging from existing VW plants to ‘additional capacities’,” Automobilwoche reported, suggesting that ongoing internal discussions may align with growing trade policy uncertainty.
See also: Audi Reveals U.S. Pricing and Specs for A6 and S6 Sportback e-tron
The Q6 e-tron, based on the new PPE platform, may also eventually be built in the United States. However, no firm plans have been announced. According to the report, Audi is conducting a site search that could result in the establishment of a third U.S. location, or possibly rely on contract manufacturing. With only Chattanooga and the Blythewood plant under VW Group’s current U.S. footprint, further expansion or partnerships may be necessary.
Audi does not currently operate a production facility in the United States. The Q4 e-tron is manufactured in Zwickau, Germany, while the Q6 e-tron comes from Ingolstadt. Production of the Q8 e-tron ended earlier this year in Brussels following the closure of the site.