Volkswagen Group of America has reached a significant operational milestone, surpassing 250,000 vehicles shipped through Port Freeport since establishing its Gulf Coast vehicle processing hub at the Texas port.
The milestone was achieved on May 28, 2026, marking roughly two years since operations commenced in early 2024 following the hub’s announcement in 2022.
The Port Freeport facility serves as a major import and distribution gateway for Volkswagen and Audi vehicles destined for nearly 300 dealerships across the United States, with the broader Volkswagen Group portfolio also encompassing brands including Porsche, Lamborghini and Bentley.
Rob Giesecke, Chairman of the Port Freeport Commission, described the achievement as a reflection of a strong partnership that supports local employment, drives economic growth in Brazoria County and Texas, and strengthens supply chains nationally.
Elliott Hughes, Port Manager for Volkswagen Group of America at Freeport, attributed the milestone to the collective effort of terminal teams, support staff and regional partners, framing it as the product of trust, collaboration and a sustained commitment to reliable and sustainable operations.
Phyllis Saathoff, Executive Director and CEO of Port Freeport, congratulated Volkswagen on its operational success and highlighted the achievement as a demonstration of the value of strategic infrastructure investment and partnership.
Port Freeport ranks among the leading US ports for crude oil and natural gas liquids exports, sixth nationally in chemicals and thirteenth in total foreign waterborne tonnage.
A 2022 economic impact study by the Texas A&M Transportation Institute found that the Freeport Harbor Channel generates 266,300 jobs nationally and contributes US$ 157.3 billion in total economic output.
