Audi at 2000,000 in the USA in 3 years?!

When Audi AG’s board member for marketing and sales Peter Schwarzenbauer sat down recently in Mallorca with American journalists at the launch of the new S4, the executive took on a decidedly Warren Buffett-like tone. Buffett, a master investor and subsequent billionaire has a saying - “When people panic, buy. When people buy, panic.” In other words, big gains can and will be made by going strong and head long into a downturn like the one the world economy is dealing with today.

Now apply that to Audi - a brand that aggressively wants to grow its business. This was what the charismatic former Porsche executive emphasized over a bottle of Spanish wine with his American guests. To make his point clearer, Schwarzenbauer mentioned Audi of America’s sales goals. Before the downturn, Audi planned to sell 200,000 cars in the USA within five to eight years. However, with the stock market and housing values falling and unemployment on the rise, he thinks this growth can now be attained in three to four years.

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chewy - 11/16/2008 10:28:09 PM

+1 Boost

sounds somewhat too optimistic, but Audi should be doing great in 3 years in the US regardless of its volume

IamEvilHomer - 11/17/2008 4:12:27 PM

0 Boost

it is simply a business statement. No one believes that Audi or any brand will increase 200% in less then 5 years. It is possable but not probable.

They are probably trying to secure investments or stock price.

veyron1001 - 11/16/2008 10:59:17 PM

-4 Boost

The US needs more German. Also there are plenty of Mercedes and BMW but Audi seems like an endangered species in comparison. Glad there will be more here.

S4cabriofoxone - 11/17/2008 12:22:31 PM

+1 Boost

I would shoot for 150,000 first. They should be able to cross 100K this year if the A4 and A5 continue to sell well.

VISO - 11/17/2008 8:12:31 PM

+1 Boost

Audi grew 7.2% globally in October, BMW fell 10% and MB fell 21%. Looks like they are heading in different directions up or down the ladder.