Hyundai Motors Group has announced a $12.6 billion investment in new electric vehicle (EV) and battery manufacturing facilities in the US state of Georgia in a move that will create about 12,000 jobs.
The Korean carmaker has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech), setting up a partnership aimed at strengthening research into hydrogen-fueled vehicles and training workers for the company.
Hyundai said the investment includes the $7.59 billion Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA) site in Bryan County, Georgia that will create more than 8,500 direct jobs, and the $5 billion battery manufacturing facility joint venture with battery maker SK On in Bartow County, Georgia that will employ approximately 3,500 people.
The company noted the locations were chosen due to their proximity to Georgia Tech.
“Georgia is like a second home to us,” Hyundai president and CEO Jay Chang commented.
“We are a mission-driven organization with a very compelling point of view about the future. We feel a great responsibility to contribute to a sustainable future where all humankind can have a safe and healthy life while enjoying freedom of movement.”
Georgia Tech president Ángel Cabrera added: “I look forward to working with Hyundai leaders to deepen our partnership as we work to develop exceptional leaders and produce new ideas that will shape the automotive industry and advance mobility in the future.”
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