Audi plans massive investments
Audi is a member of the Volkswagen group which also includes the likes of Porsche, Bugatti and Lamborghini. Together they have recently declared their intentions to beat Toyota as the number one manufacturer of vehicles worldwide. In order to do that though, a great deal of investment is required.
Audi alone has today pledged a total of 10.6 billion euros ($17.75 billion AUD) in investments from 2008 to 2012. Out of that 10.6 billion, almost 75 per cent will go straight into new products, with models expected to rise from the current 25 to 40 by 2015.
“Investment in new models, product innovations and core competencies is a necessary requirement for the successful continuation of Audi’s growth.” Axel Strotbek, Member of the Board of Management at AUDI AG for Finance and Organization said.
Previously AUDI had planned to invest 9.8 billion euros from 2007 to 2011.
Next year should see the introduction of several new models such as the Audi A3 Cabriolet, the Audi A4 Avant and the Audi Q5, among others.
Audi will also upgrade and modernise its current production sites. More than 1.1 billion euros will be spent on its plants in Ingolstadt and Neckarsulm. Of this total, 720 million euros have been allotted to Ingolstadt, with 400 million euros going to Neckarsulm. Investment in new products and structural measures will take priority.
Australia is not left out either, Audi Australia Pty Ltd plans to invest $50 million in a new ‘lighthouse’ facility to open in Sydney in 2009 with a further $100 million expected from the national dealer network over the next 3 years.
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