Auto Union

Brand Overview

Auto Union AG was a major German automotive conglomerate formed in 1932 in Chemnitz, Saxony, through the historic merger of four financially distressed independent German motor vehicle manufacturers. The alliance was engineered to pool technical resources and survive the economic devastation of the Great Depression.

Following World War II and extensive corporate restructuring under the ownership of Daimler-Benz and subsequently Volkswagen, the conglomerate was consolidated. In 1985, the company permanently dropped the "Auto Union" name to trade under its sole surviving luxury brand: Audi.

Development History

In 1932, the four companies merged to form Auto Union. During the 1930s, it produced multi-brand cars and racing cars. The company dissolved after World War II. It was acquired by Volkswagen in the 1960s. It was restructured into Audi in 1985.

Main Products

Produces multi-brand cars and racing cars. Classic products include Auto Union racing cars (Silver Arrows), DKW cars, Horch luxury cars, etc. Racing cars achieved brilliant results in the Grand Prix races of the 1930s.

Technical Features

Auto Union racing cars adopted an advanced mid-engine layout and were at the forefront of racing technology in the 1930s.

Market Position

In the 1930s German automobile market, Auto Union was one of the major manufacturers. It achieved glorious results in motorsports.

Brand Status

The Auto Union brand has been integrated into Audi, and the four-ring logo is still used today, representing the four founding companies.