New Delhi, Oct. 25 -- ATLANTA - Audi is committing to manufacture vehicles in the United States, but the factory that would change its American business is still years from producing its first SUV. The announcement settles where the German luxury brand intends to build. It does not deliver an immediate alternative to importing vehicles.

The company plans to invest approximately $4 billion in its first U.S. production site in Georgia, creating about 4,500 jobs and installing capacity for up to 200,000 vehicles annually. Audi outlined the commitment in its announcement. The operation is intended to produce premium SUVs for North American customers, placing manufacturing closer to the market it is meant to serve.

Governor Brian Kemp and Au...