n the two years since Volkswagen’s announcement to build an automobile manufacturing facility in Chattanooga, the company has made great strides towards the completion of this project.
As of early August, 948 employees have been hired for the facility, and 30 prototypes of the new midsize sedan have been constructed. The facility’s paint shop began test runs in September.
On August 5, executives from more than 100 suppliers were in town for a Supplier Integration Day, and 80 U.S. suppliers are expected to travel to Wolfsburg for a Supplier Fair this month.
Winguard Quality Supply, LLC was announced recently as the sixth tenant for Volkswagen’s Supplier Park. Winguard relocated its headquarters from Fremont, CA and will be responsible for wheel and tire assembly. The company plans to hire 20-25 local people.
Volkswagen Drive was dedicated on August 20. The 1.167 mile two-lane carries motorists from the Volkswagen Drive Exit off 1-75 to the VW assembly plant.
Volkswagen will host some of its Chinese employees in Chattanooga in October. Currently there are two Volkswagen plants under construction and two other plants being planned in China. The Chattanooga plant will serve as the blueprint for these facilities.