Toyota claims job security with new $922 million investment in Kentucky

In Georgetown, Kentucky, Toyota announced a substantial investment of $922 million to build a new car paint facility at its manufacturing complex, which is set to support the company’s electric vehicle production efforts and is expected to be completed by 2027. The new facility will add 1 million square feet of capacity and aims to significantly reduce environmental impacts, including decreasing carbon emissions by 30% and reducing water usage by 1.5 million gallons annually. This initiative aligns with Toyota's broader goal of achieving zero carbon emissions by 2050. Toyota Kentucky President Kerry Creech emphasized the company's commitment to job security for their workforce of approximately 10,000 employees, stating that this year's reinvestment in the plant exceeds $2 billion. This investment coincides with Toyota's plans to assemble a new three-row battery electric SUV targeted for sale in the United States in 2026. While this investment will not create new jobs, it is considered crucial for the integration of sustainable practices within their production processes. The Governor of Kentucky, Andy Beshear, recognized this investment as the largest economic development monetary investment for the state this year, highlighting the longstanding partnership between Kentucky and Toyota over the past 40 years. Georgetown Mayor Burney Jenkins also expressed his excitement regarding the continued investments by Toyota in the local facility, indicating that the company's new investments since 2020 have exceeded $20 billion, showcasing a strong commitment to U.S. manufacturing operations. Furthermore, Toyota has ambitious aims, targeting the sale of 1.5 to 1.8 million electric or hybrid vehicles in the United States by 2030, reflecting the company's strategic shift towards electrification in a rapidly evolving automotive landscape. The announcement of this investment reaffirms Toyota’s leadership and responsibility in hybrid and electric vehicle production, while addressing environmental concerns in its manufacturing operations.