Toyota invests $1.3 billion in Kentucky plant for new electric SUV

Toyota has announced a $1.3 billion investment in its Kentucky manufacturing facility, aimed at advancing its electrification strategy. This investment will support the assembly of a new three-row battery electric SUV for the U.S. market and brings the total investment in the Kentucky plant to nearly $10 billion. The investment underscores Toyota’s commitment to producing high-quality vehicles and ensuring long-term job stability.

The Kentucky plant will be upgraded to assemble future battery electric vehicles (BEVs) as part of Toyota’s broader strategy to expand its electric vehicle offerings. Additionally, the investment will enable the installation of a battery pack assembly line at the facility. These batteries will be supplied by Toyota Battery Manufacturing North Carolina.

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear has praised Toyota’s ongoing contributions to the state, noting the company’s role in providing well-paying jobs. Toyota Kentucky has been a key part of Toyota’s North American operations since 1986 and has been involved in assembling popular models, such as the Camry, which has been a top-selling passenger car in the U.S. for 22 years.

The announcement reflects Toyota’s ongoing commitment to vehicle electrification and reinvestment in U.S. operations. Kerry Creech, president of Toyota Kentucky, highlighted the company’s focus on adhering to its core values and prioritizing its workforce. Toyota’s investments also include community support, with over $154 million donated locally over the past four decades.

This investment is part of Toyota’s larger $17 billion initiative into U.S. manufacturing, aimed at supporting electrification and increasing BEV assembly in North America while maintaining a commitment to local production.