It is reported that the new state of the art Volkswagen auto plant located in Chattanooga, TN has provided about 2,100 jobs (Volkswagen claims 12,000+ jobs – many appear to be indirect jobs!) and possibly additional employment in the future. The automaker currently builds the all new Passat at the plant, however, other VW vehicles might be added down the line.
The 2012 Volkswagen Passat is an excellent four-door sedan available in gasoline and diesel models that are competitively priced. This sounds like a win-win for Chattanooga and Volkswagen but what did VW get in the deal? Actually, quite a lot!
It is reported that Volkswagen received the largest subsidy ever given to a foreign manufacturer. It included 1,350 acres of free land, 577.4 million in tax breaks, as well as 40 million to train workers.
Did the citizens of Chattanooga get to vote or have a say if the automaker should come to its community?
For this kind of monetary shot in the arm, let’s hope that Volkswagen employs many more people from Chattanooga, utilizes American suppliers, builds a number of high-quality Volkswagen models at the plant, and gives back to the community.
If you are like me, you love cars, however, I opinion that corporations need to lift communities in many ways. After all, they are reeling in the profits!
Kyle Busch is the author of “Drive the Best for the Price: How to Buy a Used Automobile, Sport-Utility Vehicle, or Minivan and Save Money.” He welcomes your comments or car questions at his auto web site: www.cartown1.com. Follow Kyle on Facebook and Twitter.