Toyota is gearing up for a significant leap into the electric vehicle (EV) market with a substantial investment of $1.3 billion at its flagship facility in Georgetown, Kentucky. This move marks a strategic shift for the automaker, signaling its commitment to vehicle electrification and reinforcing its position as a key player in the EV industry.
The investment will facilitate the manufacturing of battery electric vehicles (BEVs), specifically Toyota's new three-row battery-electric SUV. In addition to vehicle production, the funding will support the creation of battery pack assembly lines, which will receive batteries directly from Toyota Battery Manufacturing North Carolina.
With this latest announcement, Toyota's total investment in future electrification efforts at the Kentucky plant reaches nearly $10 billion. Kerry Creech, President of Toyota Kentucky, emphasized the company's dedication to vehicle electrification and reinvestment in US operations. He stated, "Today's announcement reflects our commitment to vehicle electrification and further reinvesting in our US operations. Generations of our team members helped prepare for this opportunity, and we will continue to lead the charge into the future."
Toyota's Kentucky facility has been a cornerstone of the automaker's North American operations since 1986, employing nearly 9,700 team members across its assembly lines. With an annual production capacity of up to 550,000 vehicles, the plant plays a pivotal role in Toyota's manufacturing network.
Beyond production, Toyota is deeply invested in its operational communities, prioritizing education and workforce development initiatives. Over the years, the company has contributed more than $154 million in local donations and supported numerous educational and workforce training programs throughout the Bluegrass state.
Production of Toyota's BEVs is scheduled to commence in 2025, marking a significant milestone in the company's journey towards a more sustainable future.
Source: Toyota