Laschet defends Audi CEO Döllner after appearance with Trump

With his statement, Laschet placed his support for Döllner at the center of his remarks. He defended the Audi CEO without addressing specific passages of the appearance in greater detail, based on the facts provided.

Laschet's support for Döllner

The automaker faces challenges in the United States as it electrifies its model lineup. According to figures from consulting firm PwC, its market share stood at just 6 percent in the first nine months of the year — despite high fuel prices, that was lower than for the full year of 2025.

According to PwC, battery-electric vehicles accounted for six percent of the US market in the first nine months of the year. The figure was below the market share recorded for the full year of 2025.

Although gasoline and diesel prices were high in the United States, PwC's data show that this did not lead to a higher sales share for battery-electric vehicles. The figures refer to the market share of the powertrain type, not to Audi's business performance or that of individual models.

Battery-electric cars in the US market

The connection between Laschet's defense of Döllner and market developments is only limited in the verified facts. His support for the Audi CEO and the PwC figures for the US market are firmly documented.

The atmosphere surrounding the appearance at the Republican election event forms the political context. Donald Trump appeared there jointly with Döllner, while Williams supports the Democrats in the United States. The fact collection contains no further details about Williams' presence, the course of the event or his role.

Political context of the appearance

Laschet's reaction shows that Döllner's public ties to Trump are also being discussed within German coalition politics. However, his statement does not answer the question of what consequences the appearance could have for Audi, the group or its future location and sales strategy.

With his statement, Laschet expressed clear support for Döllner. The available information provides neither an explanation from the company regarding the allegations nor any indication of a formal response from Audi.