Volkswagen Chattanooga is offering hourly workers a 10% wage increase with production of their new electric SUV, the ID.4, expected to begin in the fall.
In 2019, Volkswagen announced their plans for an $800 million expansion in Chattanooga, focusing on environmental safety and commercializing their electric cars.
This expansion is set to create 1,000 new jobs in Chattanooga, bringing Volkwagen’s total employment rate in Chattanooga to nearly 5,000 workers — making them more equipped to build the first global Volkswagen electric vehicle.
Production of the ID.4 SUV is set to begin in the United States around October or September and will be nearly identical to the European model.
According to the Times Free Press, Volkswagen America reported record sales in 2021 with major contributions from SUVs, supplying 73% of total sales.
The company reported growth in sales since 2020 of all Chattanooga-built vehicles including the Atlas, Atlas Cross Sport and Passat.
Scott Keogh, president and chief executive, Volkswagen, explains that the wage increase is important given the year’s economic standing and employment issues.
With an influx of sales and the production of the new ID.4, there are more team members needed to produce the cars and more funds available for increased pay.
With this wage increase and the production of a new SUV on the way, Chattanooga continues to be home to some of the best jobs in Tennessee.
