Audi warns U.S. tariff hike could hit Q9 SUV launch

BERLIN, May 5 (sources) — Audi expects a “significant” impact if the United States raises tariffs on European car imports, even as the German premium carmaker moves ahead with a summer launch of its flagship Q9 SUV in the U.S.

Finance chief Juergen Rittersberger said a proposed increase in tariffs on EU car imports to 25% would be a substantial burden for Audi. The company currently faces a 15% tariff, which Audi said costs parent Volkswagen Group about 4 billion euros ($4.7 billion) a year.

Audi is particularly exposed to trade barriers because it has no manufacturing facilities of its own in the United States and relies on imports from Europe and Mexico to supply U.S. customers. The Q9 is produced at Audi’s Bratislava plant in Slovakia and would therefore be directly affected by any higher tariff.

Rittersberger said Audi is assessing the situation and exploring options with Volkswagen regarding potential U.S. production. He added that moving manufacturing to the U.S. would likely require political support, such as subsidies, tariff reductions, or similar measures.

Audi reiterated its 2026 profit forecast, which does not include any tariff increase beyond the current 15%. The company and Volkswagen are cutting costs and revamping model lineups amid competitive pressure from Chinese automakers and the impact of tariffs. Audi plans to cut 7,500 jobs by 2029.