Toyota Motor Corp. is poised to begin battery shipments from its newly expanded $14 billion facility in Liberty, North Carolina, starting April. The plant marks Toyota’s first U.S.-based in-house battery manufacturing site, aimed at supporting the production of hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric vehicles in North America.
The Liberty facility represents Toyota’s 11th manufacturing site in the United States and a significant step in its electrification strategy. Expanded in 2023, the plant now boasts 14 production lines, with a workforce of approximately 5,000 employees. It is designed to ramp up production to a capacity of 30 gigawatt-hours annually by 2030. This domestic production capability is crucial for Toyota as it navigates challenges with supply chains and aims to increase the share of electrified vehicles in its lineup.
Toyota’s investment in local manufacturing aligns with its broader strategy of enhancing product quality and fostering community engagement, as emphasized by Chairman Akio Toyoda. This approach not only strengthens Toyota’s market position but also supports local workforce development, evidenced by partnerships with institutions like North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.
The launch of this facility is part of a larger trend where automotive companies are expanding battery production capabilities to meet rising demand for electric vehicles. As the industry shifts towards electrification, Toyota’s move reflects its commitment to leading in this transition. Industry experts suggest that such investments are critical for maintaining competitiveness in an increasingly green automotive market.
As Toyota prepares to commence battery production in North Carolina, the move positions the company to better meet the growing demand for electrified vehicles in North America. This development is expected to contribute significantly to Toyota’s sustainability goals and support its long-term growth strategy in the electric vehicle sector.
Article Source: Toyota’s expanded $14B North Carolina EV battery plant ready to roll | Manufacturing Dive
Photo by Chandler Cruttenden on Unsplash
