Making a “working visit” to Chattanooga today, Volkswagen AG Chairman Martin Winterkorn is expected to receive a progress report on the automaker’s plant construction, according to officials.
This is Mr. Winterkorn’s first visit to the $1 billion assembly plant.
“It’s a big deal, and it reflects VW’s continued commitment,” said J.Ed. Marston, the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce’s vice president of marketing.
Mr. Winterkorn is to huddle with top leaders at the plant including Frank Fischer, who oversees the car maker’s Chattanooga operations. He’ll also meet with local government officials and is scheduled to meet with Gov. Phil Bredesen during the trip.
Mr. Winterkorn has been in San Francisco this week, where the automaker showcased the latest version of its Jetta and its electric vehicle efforts. He also highlighted the car company’s initiatives in the United States, where officials are aiming to triple sales to about 1 million vehicles annually, including Audi.