Japanese automotive giant Toyota has recently unveiled its latest investment plan, totaling almost US$8 billion, to expand its new manufacturing plant Toyota Battery Manufacturing North Carolina (TBMNC). This move will create approximately 3,000 new jobs, increasing the total investment in the facility to around $13.9 billion and job creation to over 5,000 positions. The investment is part of Toyota’s broader strategy to advance vehicle electrification globally.
The expansion includes the addition of eight new battery production lines for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), supplementing the two lines previously announced. The ramp-up in production will be gradual, with line launches scheduled through 2030, aiming for a total annual production capacity of over 30 gigawatt-hours (GWh).Sean Suggs, President of Toyota North Carolina, conveyed that this announcement underscores Toyota’s dedication to electrification and the reduction of carbon emissions, contributing to job creation and the potential for future economic development in the area. He expressed enthusiasm about the sustained energy and support for this innovative manufacturing facility.
Toyota’ role in promoting clean energy economyThe announcement marks a significant development for the Liberty location in North Carolina, initially introduced in 2021 with a US$1.29 billion investment and plans for 1,750 new jobs. This location is now poised to become a central hub for lithium-ion battery production in North America for Toyota, with a facility spanning seven million square feet, equivalent to 121 football fields. North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper highlighted the strengthening partnership with Toyota, noting, “North Carolina’s transition to a clean energy economy is bringing better paying jobs that will support our families and communities for decades to come.” Toyota’s expansion is seen as a milestone in this transition and a testament to the robust collaboration between the state and the company.
North Carolina’s emergence as a notable hub for electric vehicle (EV) and battery manufacturing is driven by various factors. In recent years, the state has seen a surge in interest and investments from companies seeking to bolster their presence in the rapidly growing EV industry. Among them, notable names like Redwood Materials and Vietnam’s Vinfast have stepped forward with ambitious investment plans in the region.
The expansion has been well received by North Carolina officials, with Senator Phil Berger acknowledging the significance of the investment for local communities and high-tech manufacturing. House Speaker Tim Moore also praised the announcement, attributing Toyota’s growth to the state’s conducive business environment, strong workforce and robust financial standing. This investment by Toyota is seen as a clear indicator of North Carolina’s emerging role as a leader in business and innovation.
Toyota has successfully introduced over 24.6 million hybrid, plug-in hybrid, fuel cell and battery electric vehicles worldwide. The company aims to offer an electrified version of every Toyota and Lexus model by 2025.
Beyond its business initiatives, Toyota is committed to community engagement. The company has recently donated a total of US$200,000 to various local nonprofits and educational programs in North Carolina. This follows a US$1 million investment in the previous year to support local students in partnership with Communities in Schools Randolph County and North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.
