News Summary
Hyundai has unveiled plans for a $2.7 billion investment to expand its electric vehicle manufacturing facility in Ellabell, Georgia, boosting production capacity to 500,000 vehicles annually. This expansion aims to create around 3,000 jobs and increase domestic vehicle manufacturing in the U.S. to 80% by 2030. Despite a recent immigration raid affecting local operations, Hyundai remains committed to enhancing its workforce and production capabilities, including the introduction of new electric and hybrid models.
Ellabell, Georgia – Hyundai has announced a significant investment of $2.7 billion aimed at expanding its electric vehicle plant in Ellabell, Georgia, through 2028. This expansion is set to enhance the plant’s production capacity by 200,000 vehicles, elevating its total output to 500,000 vehicles annually. Hyundai’s plans will not only bolster local manufacturing but also create approximately 3,000 jobs in the region.
As part of its broader strategy, Hyundai aims to increase the percentage of vehicles it manufactures domestically in the U.S. to 80% by 2030, up from the current 60%. Alongside this expansion, Hyundai plans to ramp up production of electric and hybrid models at the Ellabell facility from the existing two models to a total of ten, which includes the introduction of a new mid-sized pickup truck alongside the currently produced Santa Cruz compact pickup.
The company’s ambitious plans come against a backdrop of a recent immigration raid at the production site, which resulted in the apprehension of 475 individuals, primarily South Korean nationals. Over 300 of those detained were released without charges. This incident has delayed the startup of an accompanying electric vehicle battery facility, with operational commencement now expected in the first half of 2026, delayed by about two to three months due to the raid.
Hyundai’s plans for the Ellabell plant are a part of a more extensive vision that includes a forecasted global production target of 5.6 million vehicles annually by 2030, of which 60% will be electric or hybrid. This expansion is part of Hyundai’s strategic effort to boost worldwide production capacity by 1.2 million vehicles per year, which will include additional output from plants in India, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, and North Africa.
The total investment in Hyundai’s auto manufacturing facility in Georgia is projected to reach $10.3 billion, excluding an additional $4.3 billion dedicated to the battery plant. To assist this expansion, state and local governments have pledged $2.1 billion in tax breaks and incentives.
In a move to significantly grow its workforce, Hyundai has committed to increasing the number of employees at the Ellabell plant from its current count of 3,129 to at least 8,500 by the end of 2031. Governor Brian Kemp of Georgia expressed optimism regarding Hyundai’s expansion, indicating the company’s long-term growth potential in the state.
In line with its expansion efforts, Hyundai is also investing in advanced robotics technology and is planning the launch of extended-range electric vehicles that can cover more than 600 miles with a hybrid system by 2027. This integration of innovative technology aims to enhance Hyundai’s competitive edge in the evolving automotive market.
Hyundai’s expansion in Ellabell and its commitment to domestic production and job creation reflect its strategic pivot towards electric vehicle manufacturing, underscoring the increasing importance of sustainability and innovation in the automotive industry.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Scripps News: Hyundai Announces Expanded Investment in Georgia EV Plant
- Wikipedia: Hyundai
- CBS News: Hyundai Will Spend $2.7 Billion Expanding Georgia Plant
- Google Search: Hyundai Georgia Plant Expansion
- USA Today: ICE Raid on Hyundai Plant Leads to Production Setback
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Electric Vehicle
- American Bazaar: Hyundai Moves Ahead with Georgia Plant Expansion
- Google News: Hyundai Georgia Plant ICE Raid
Author: STAFF HERE SAVANNAH WRITER
SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER The SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESavannah.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Savannah, Chatham County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Savannah Music Festival, St. Patrick's Day Parade, and Savannah Jazz Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Coastal Empire, plus leading businesses in aerospace, education, and logistics that power the local economy such as Gulfstream Aerospace, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Colonial Group. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HEREAugusta.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
