It doesn’t matter if you own an Audi or not, you might be surprised to know who owns Audi. Knowing who owns Audi can deepen your understanding of its market position.
Well, it is owned by Volkswagen.
Surprised?
No.
Read on and you sure will be surprised…
Audi AG is one of the most prestigious automobile manufacturers, known for its luxury vehicles and innovative engineering. As a subsidiary of one of the world’s largest automotive groups, Audi plays a crucial role in the global automotive industry.
Understanding who owns Audi is essential for grasping the brand’s identity and reputation in the luxury automobile sector.
This article provides an in-depth analysis of who owns Audi, its major shareholders, financial performance, market position, and competitors.
History of Audi
Audi’s origins trace back to 1910 when August Horch founded the company in Zwickau, Germany. The brand’s name, derived from the Latin translation of Horch (meaning “listen”), was chosen to resolve a trademark dispute.
In 1932, Audi merged with three other German automakers—Horch, DKW, and Wanderer—to form Auto Union AG, represented by the four interlinked rings in Audi’s logo. After World War II, Auto Union underwent restructuring and was acquired by Daimler-Benz in 1958.
In 1965, Volkswagen acquired Auto Union and reintroduced the Audi brand. By 1969, Audi merged with NSU Motorenwerke, further expanding its technological capabilities. Over the decades, Audi grew into a global luxury brand, pioneering innovations in quattro all-wheel drive, lightweight construction, and electric mobility.
Who Owns Audi?
The question of who owns Audi resonates with many as they evaluate the brand’s standing in the automotive ecosystem.
Audi AG is a wholly owned subsidiary of Volkswagen Group (Volkswagen AG). Volkswagen consolidated its full ownership of Audi in 2020 by acquiring the remaining minority shares, making Audi a fully integrated part of the group.
Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany, is the parent company who owns Audi and oversees its operations. is one of the world’s largest automakers. The company owns several premium and mass-market brands, with Audi positioned as its leading luxury brand.
List of Audi’s Shareholders
Since Audi AG is fully owned by Volkswagen AG, its shareholder structure is directly tied to Volkswagen’s ownership. Below are the key shareholders of Volkswagen Group, which indirectly controls Audi:
Institutional and Corporate Shareholders
- Porsche Automobil Holding SE (53.3%) – Porsche SE, controlled by the Porsche-Piëch family, holds the majority voting rights in Volkswagen Group, giving it ultimate control over Audi.
- State of Lower Saxony (11.8%) – The German state holds a significant stake in Volkswagen, ensuring regional economic and employment interests are considered in decision-making.
- Qatar Investment Authority (10.5%) – The sovereign wealth fund of Qatar holds a large stake, leveraging its influence in strategic business decisions.
- Retail and Institutional Investors (24.4%) – Various shareholders, including investment funds and private investors, hold the remaining shares.
Who Controls Audi?
Since Audi is fully integrated into Volkswagen Group, its strategic direction is determined by Volkswagen’s leadership and board of directors. The Porsche-Piëch family, through Porsche SE, exerts the most significant control over Audi’s operations.
Ultimately, who owns Audi is not just a question of ownership; it reflects the brand’s philosophy and future vision.
Key Decision-Makers
- Oliver Blume (CEO, Volkswagen Group) – Oversees Volkswagen Group’s operations, including Audi.
- Gernot Döllner (CEO, Audi AG) – Directly manages Audi’s global operations, innovation, and expansion strategies.
- Volkswagen Supervisory Board – Includes members from Porsche SE, Lower Saxony, and Qatar Investment Authority, influencing Audi’s corporate strategy.
Annual Revenue and Net Worth
Audi AG reported a record-breaking revenue of €69.9 billion ($75 billion) in 2023, driven by strong sales of luxury vehicles and a growing electric vehicle (EV) portfolio. This represents a 13% year-over-year increase compared to €61.8 billion in 2022. The brand’s expansion in key markets, particularly China and the United States, has contributed significantly to this growth.
Audi’s net worth in 2024 is estimated at, reinforcing the financial strength of the company who owns Audi. €40 billion ($43 billion). This valuation considers Audi’s financial assets, brand equity, technological innovations, and its strong market position in the luxury automotive industry.
As a key subsidiary of Volkswagen Group, Audi benefits from large-scale investments in electric mobility, digital transformation, and sustainability, further strengthening its financial standing. The company’s profitability is driven by its premium vehicle lineup, including the high-performance RS models and the expanding e-tron electric vehicle range.
Historical Revenue Growth (Year-over-Year)
- 2023: €69.9 billion (EV expansion and luxury vehicle sales boost)
- 2022: €61.8 billion (Supply chain challenges and semiconductor shortages)
- 2021: €53 billion (Post-pandemic recovery, strong SUV sales)
- 2020: €50 billion (COVID-19 impact, global downturn)
- 2019: €52.5 billion (2% growth) – Continued expansion in luxury and performance segments.
- 2018: €51.5 billion (1.8% growth) – Introduction of new models and technological advancements.
- 2017: €50.6 billion (3.1% growth) – Strong sales in Europe and China, boosted by SUV models.
- 2016: €49.1 billion (2.7% growth) – Rising demand for premium vehicles and innovations in autonomous driving.
- 2015: €47.8 billion (7% growth) – Significant growth driven by the launch of the Audi Q7 and A4 models.
Factors Influencing Financial Performance
- Electrification Strategy – Investment in electric vehicles (EVs) like the Audi e-tron series.
- Luxury Market Demand – Strong demand for premium and high-performance vehicles.
- Global Supply Chains – Semiconductor shortages and economic fluctuations affecting production.
Market Share and Competitors
Analyzing who owns Audi is vital for understanding how the brand navigates market challenges and opportunities.
Audi holds an estimated 2.7% of the global automotive market and approximately 9% of the luxury vehicle market.
Within the European market, Audi commands a significant presence, with its market share often fluctuating between 5-6% depending on regional demand and economic conditions.
In the United States, Audi holds approximately 7% of the luxury car market, competing closely with BMW and Mercedes-Benz. The brand has seen steady growth, particularly in the electric vehicle (EV) segment, where it continues to expand its e-tron lineup.
In China, Audi remains one of the top luxury car brands, capturing around 8% of the premium vehicle market, benefiting from strong local demand for high-end sedans and SUVs.
Audi’s market share is expected to grow, solidifying its position in the competitive automotive landscape. as it accelerates its transition to electric vehicles and expands its global production capabilities. With Volkswagen Group’s backing and a strategic focus on premium mobility, Audi continues to strengthen its position as a key player in the luxury automotive industry.
Major Competitors of Audi
BMW
BMW commands approximately 11% of the luxury car market, competing with Audi in performance, design, and technology. Its strong presence in the EV segment, with models like the iX and i4, challenges Audi’s e-tron lineup.
Mercedes-Benz
With a 12% market share in luxury vehicles, Mercedes-Benz is Audi’s top rival. The brand’s emphasis on luxury, technology, and electrification positions it as a direct competitor.
Tesla
Tesla dominates the electric vehicle sector with a 15% global EV market share. Its technological innovations and autonomous driving features present a competitive challenge to Audi’s e-tron series.
Porsche
As another Volkswagen Group brand, Porsche competes with Audi in high-performance vehicles. Models like the Porsche Taycan rival Audi’s electric sports sedans.
Lexus
Toyota’s luxury brand holds a 6% market share in luxury cars, focusing on reliability and hybrid technology. The Lexus RX and ES models compete with Audi’s Q5 and A6.
Volvo
With a 5% market share in the premium segment, Volvo’s focus on safety and electrification makes it a strong competitor to Audi.
Brands Owned by Audi
Audi AG owns several sub-brands and divisions:
Audi Sport
Audi’s high-performance division is responsible for developing high-performance RS models and motorsport vehicles. Audi Sport also oversees Audi’s participation in endurance racing and Formula E.
Lamborghini
A subsidiary of Audi AG, Lamborghini is renowned for its high-performance supercars and luxury SUVs, including the Aventador, Huracán, and Urus. Lamborghini holds a strong position in the ultra-luxury and supercar market, competing with brands like Ferrari and McLaren.
Ducati
An Italian motorcycle manufacturer known for its premium and high-performance motorcycles. Ducati specializes in sportbikes, with models like the Panigale, Multistrada, and Scrambler, catering to enthusiasts worldwide.
Bentley (until 2022)
Previously under Audi’s control within the Volkswagen Group, Bentley was shifted under Porsche’s oversight in 2022. However, Audi played a significant role in Bentley’s engineering and product development.
Italdesign Giugiaro
A subsidiary specializing in automotive design and engineering. Italdesign has contributed to various Audi and Volkswagen models and provides concept and prototype development services.
Find Words on Who Owns Audi
Audi AG is a wholly owned subsidiary of Volkswagen Group, with control exerted by Porsche SE through its majority stake in Volkswagen. Audi continues to thrive in the luxury automotive sector, with its ownership under Volkswagen playing a key role in its growth. Understanding who owns Audi helps in analyzing its market strategy. competing with brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Tesla. With a strong focus on electrification, innovation, and performance, Audi remains a leader in the premium car market.
FAQs
Who is the largest shareholder of Audi?
Audi is fully owned by Volkswagen Group, with ultimate control held by Porsche SE.
What brands does Audi own?
Audi owns Audi Sport, Lamborghini, Ducati, and Italdesign Giugiaro, among others.
How much is Audi worth?
Audi AG’s estimated net worth is around €40 billion ($43 billion USD).
What is Audi’s market share?
Audi holds about 9% of the luxury car market and 2.7% of the global car market.
Where is Audi headquartered?
Audi’s headquarters are located in Ingolstadt, Germany.
What does “quattro” mean in Audi vehicles?
“Quattro” refers to Audi’s all-wheel-drive system, providing enhanced traction and stability.
What is Audi’s electric vehicle lineup?
Audi’s electric vehicle lineup includes models like the Audi e-tron, e-tron GT, and Q4 e-tron.
Are Audis expensive to maintain?
Maintenance costs for Audi vehicles can be higher than average due to their luxury status and advanced technology.
What is Audi’s high-performance division?
Audi’s high-performance division is known as Audi Sport, responsible for the RS model lineup.
Does Audi offer hybrid models?
Yes, Audi offers several plug-in hybrid models, denoted by the “TFSI e” badge.