Alabama claims No. 1 spot among auto-exporting states for first time
Alabama has become the nation’s No. 1 auto-exporting state, with international vehicle shipments surging past $11.2 billion in 2023 to overtake long-time leader South Carolina, according to new trade data. Alabama’s auto exports have climbed 45% in value since 2021, when they totaled $7.7 billion, according to figures from the Alabama Department of Commerce. “Alabama’s…
Toyota Alabama kicks off production on new engine line after $222 million project
HUNTSVILLE, Alabama — Toyota Alabama announced today that it has started production on its i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbo engine line at its Huntsville engine plant, culminating a $222 million investment project launched in 2022. Toyota Alabama said the new engine line will provide powertrains for the all-new Tacoma pickup and reinforces its commitment to diversified powertrains…
New $30 million EV training center will support auto industry growth
MONTGOMERY, Alabama — Governor Kay Ivey announced today that Alabama is building a $30 million workforce training center in Decatur that will focus on electric vehicles and emerging technologies in order to position the state’s auto industry for the next chapter of its growth. The facility will be located on the campus of the Alabama Robotics…
Alabama’s auto industry prepares for electrifying next chapter
It’s clear the global auto industry views electric vehicles as the future, prompting automakers to craft strategic plans — powered by massive investments — to position themselves for a revolutionary shift that’s approaching at top speed. In Alabama, which has become a top auto-producing state over the past 25 years, the industry is making major…
Hyundai Alabama plans major investment with new Santa Fe SUV on way
MONTGOMERY, Alabama — Hyundai announced plans today to invest $290 million in upgrades at its Montgomery assembly plant as the facility prepares to build the next-generation Santa Fe sport utility. Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama (HMMA) officials announced the automaker’s investment plans at a ceremony at the plant, where they were joined by Governor Kay Ivey,…
Alabama automakers step up support for career pathway programs
Alabama’s automakers are expanding their broad-based efforts to create new career pathways for Alabama students interested in developing the skills needed in high-tech workplaces. Last week, Toyota USA Foundation announced grants of up to $6.7 million to prepare Huntsville City Schools’ students for future careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). The collaboration, part…
Auto parts maker Shinhwa plans $114 million Alabama expansion
AUBURN, Alabama — Shinhwa Auto USA Corp. plans to invest $114 million to expand its manufacturing operation in Auburn to support the production of electric vehicle parts, according to Governor Kay Ivey. The growth project will create 50 jobs and add a new 170,000-square-foot production building on Shinhwa’s campus in Auburn Technology Park West. The…
Mercedes’ Alabama operation gears up for all-electric Maybach SUV
Mercedes-Benz’s Alabama operation is preparing to take the automaker’s concept of the ultra-luxury automobile to an electrifying new level, with the upcoming production launch of the 2024 Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 sport utility. Mercedes debuted the head-turning vehicle this week, saying “the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV sets the new benchmark in the all-electric top-end luxury SUV segment”…
Honda Alabama opens $16 million customization facility
LINCOLN, Alabama — Honda has launched a new facility at its Alabama Auto Plant that is dedicated to the installation of accessory option packages on its vehicles. The $16 million, 66,000-square-foot Post-Production Option facility will house a program that outfits the automaker’s light-truck lineup with features designed to add extra performance and function, including bronze…
Toyota Alabama launches $49 million solar project for engine plant
HUNTSVILLE, Alabama — Toyota Alabama’s engine manufacturing facility will soon be relying on the sun to generate over 70% of its power needs thanks to a 168-acre, $49 million solar project announced today. At a press briefing this morning, Toyota Alabama, Toyota Tsusho America Inc. (TAI) and Huntsville Utilities outlined a power purchase agreement to…
