PRESS STATEMENT Regarding Audi CEO Döllner’s appearance in the U.S.

“The way Gernot Döllner presented himself and Audi in the U.S. is highly embarrassing, politically unacceptable, and unworthy of the company—but above all, of Audi’s employees.

As President of IG Metall, a union that stands for solidarity, democracy, and openness and opposes all forms of misanthropy, such behavior not only personally offends me—I also unequivocally condemn it. Döllner is also flagrantly violating his own company’s rules, which explicitly mandate political neutrality in the run-up to elections.

For months, the employee representatives have been calling for job security at the German plants and, at the same time, a clear North American strategy from Volkswagen and Audi. We are well aware of the importance of the American market for Volkswagen’s future.

Our focus at all times is on secure employment prospects for our colleagues at all local plants. This will also shape future debates and decisions within the governing bodies. The Executive Board must finally take a clear and binding stance on the future of the plants; the onus is on them.

Furthermore, the following applies: The final decision on a possible new plant in the U.S. is subject to the approval of the governing bodies, which means that the final vote will—rightly and importantly—be made by the Supervisory Board of Volkswagen AG after taking a holistic view.”

Additional information and press photos of Christiane Benner