GEORGETOWN, KY (Dec. 12, 2024) – Toyota is doubling down on its commitment to U.S. manufacturing with a massive $922 million investment in its Kentucky plant. This significant move is set to transform Toyota Kentucky, adding a state-of-the-art paint facility and accelerating the company’s push towards vehicle electrification. This investment underscores Toyota’s dedication to building not just vehicles, but also a sustainable and innovative future for automotive manufacturing in America.
The new 1 million square-foot paint facility, slated to open in 2027, is a cornerstone of this investment. This isn’t just about expanding capacity; it’s about reimagining the vehicle production process. Toyota is building for efficiency, aiming to cut carbon emissions from the painting process by 30 percent and reduce water usage by an impressive 1.5 million gallons annually. This commitment to environmental sustainability is a key aspect of the Toyota Build philosophy, ensuring responsible manufacturing practices.
Beyond environmental benefits, this advanced paint facility will enhance the quality and appeal of Toyota vehicles. By incorporating the latest paint technologies, Toyota is building a system that reduces production lead times and improves process accuracy. This translates to more diverse and vibrant color options for customers, allowing Toyota vehicles to truly stand out on the road.
“Our customers appreciate the dynamic and stylish exterior finishes of their vehicles, and this investment ensures we can continue to deliver on that expectation,” stated Kerry Creech, president of Toyota Kentucky. “But Toyota’s commitment to advanced paint technologies goes deeper than just aesthetics. It’s about building a manufacturing process that is efficient, sustainable, and focused on delivering exceptional quality while leading the industry in environmentally responsible manufacturing.”
This latest announcement comes on the heels of a previous $1.3 billion investment in Toyota Kentucky earlier in the year. That investment is geared towards bringing assembly of an all-new, three-row battery electric SUV to the U.S. market by 2026, further solidifying Kentucky’s role in Toyota’s electrification strategy. With this new paint facility investment, Toyota’s total investment in Kentucky since 1986 now exceeds $11 billion, demonstrating a long-term vision and a powerful “toyota build” story in the region.
“This year alone, we are reinvesting over $2 billion into this Kentucky plant,” Creech emphasized. “As both our company and the automotive industry undergo significant transformations, our priority remains steadfast: our team members. We are building a future that ensures long-term job security and opportunities for our dedicated workforce here in Kentucky.”
Toyota Kentucky stands as a testament to the success of American automotive manufacturing. Employing approximately 10,000 team members, the plant is responsible for producing some of Toyota’s most popular vehicles, including the Camry Hybrid and RAV4 Hybrid. This new investment not only secures the future of the plant but also reinforces Kentucky’s position as a leading automotive state.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear highlighted the enduring partnership: “Kentucky and Toyota have cultivated a winning partnership over the past four decades, a partnership that has profoundly benefited families across our commonwealth. This latest investment builds upon that legacy of success. We extend our sincere gratitude to the leaders at Toyota for their continued commitment to Kentucky and our exceptional workforce.”
Since 2020, Toyota has announced over $20 billion in new investments in its U.S. manufacturing operations, all aimed at supporting electrification efforts. By increasing Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) production in the U.S., Toyota is strategically advancing its comprehensive approach to vehicle electrification. This ongoing “toyota build” initiative in the U.S. signifies a powerful commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the future of automotive manufacturing.
