Summary
Toyota has officially opened its first U.S. battery manufacturing plant in Liberty, North Carolina, confirming plans to invest up to $10 billion in American operations over the next five years. The facility represents a pivotal expansion of Toyota’s electrification strategy and underscores its long-term commitment to U.S. manufacturing.
Plant Launch
The new $13.9 billion North Carolina facility began production this week, marking Toyota’s first battery plant outside Japan. The site is expected to create up to 5,100 jobs and will supply batteries for hybrid versions of the Camry, Corolla Cross, RAV4, and a forthcoming all-electric three-row SUV. Batteries will also support Toyota’s factories in Kentucky and a joint venture with Mazda in Alabama The Independent CBS News.
Investment Strategy
Toyota Motor North America President Ted Ogawa described the launch as a “pivotal moment” in the company’s history. The automaker confirmed an additional $10 billion investment in U.S. manufacturing through 2030, bringing its total U.S. investment close to $60 billion since operations began nearly 70 years ago CNBC.
Industry Context
The expansion comes as global automakers race to scale battery production amid rising demand for electric and hybrid vehicles. Toyota, a pioneer in hybrid technology, is accelerating its electrification pathway while balancing hybrid and EV development. The North Carolina plant boosts Toyota’s battery production capacity in North America by an estimated 40 gigawatt-hours once additional facilities come online between 2024 and 2026 MINING.COM.
Economic Impact
Beyond manufacturing, Toyota has pledged $2.7 million in education grants to local schools, reinforcing its role in community development. The investment signals confidence in the U.S. as a hub for advanced automotive technology and positions Toyota to compete more aggressively in the EV market Toyota USA Newsroom.
