Audi Brussels Plant Builds 7 Millionth Vehicle

It took Audi's plant in Brussels no less than 61 years to reach the 7 million vehicles produced mark (however, the carmaker took full control of the plant only three years ago), but this doesn't mean the German manufacturer doesn't have reasons to celebrate.

The facility is currently operating at full throttle and prospects are the next major milestone will be reached much sooner. Currently, Audi produces 500 cars in two shifts each day.

The anniversary model is an A1 1.4 TFSI, painted in Misano Red and with a contrasting roof arch in silver. The car, which made its public entrance at the Paris Auto Show in October, entered production at the facility in May this year.

“The achievement of seven million manufactured automobiles demonstrates the tremendous reservoir of experience, ability and passion shared by the employees at Audi Brussels,” said Frank Dreves, Audi member of the board for Production. “I am convinced the Audi A1 will be a great success and secure jobs here in Brussels for the long term.”

Happy with the achievement, the carmaker announced it will invest an additional EUR270 million ($383 million) in the expansion of the plant. The production planning for the following years has also been increased.

“We are very pleased with the start of the Audi A1,” added Alfons Dintner, General Director for Technology and Logistics at the Audi’s Brussels plant. “It was crucial to us that we apply the same high quality standards that typify Audi to the smallest automobile in our lineup. We have done an excellent job on this from day one.”