Volkswagen AG reported record operating profit in the first quarter today with earnings before interest and tax more than tripling to $4.27 billion.

"Business developments in the first quarter demonstrate the Volkswagen Group's strength and robustness," said VW Chief Executive Martin Winterkorn.

First quarter deliveries worldwide were 1.99 million, up 14 percent in the period between January and March.

VW this month started producing new vehicles for sale at its $1 billion Chattanooga plant.

See more coverage in Thursday's Times Free Press