Kia Unveils Plans for $200 Million Investment in EV9 Production Expansion

Atlanta – July 12, 2023 – In a groundbreaking announcement, Kia has revealed its commitment to invest over $200 million in expanding production capacity for the highly anticipated 2024 EV9 three-row SUV. This move is set to create nearly 200 new jobs at the company’s West Point plant in Georgia.

A New Era for Kia’s Assembly Line

Kia’s decision to transform its production line to accommodate the assembly of the EV9 is a significant leap forward. This all-electric SUV will mark the fifth model to be manufactured at Kia Georgia, joining the ranks of the successful Telluride, Sorento, and Sportage SUVs, as well as the K5 mid-size sedan. As the flagship vehicle for Kia’s global Plan S strategy, which focuses on sustainable mobility leadership, the EV9 holds tremendous potential for the brand.

Georgia’s Automotive Industry Flourishes

The State of Georgia has long enjoyed a fruitful partnership with Kia, resulting in substantial job creation and economic growth for the region. Governor Brian Kemp expressed his pride in Kia’s continued impact on the Peach State, noting that this latest project will not only provide more opportunities for hardworking Georgians but also propel the state towards its goal of becoming the e-mobility capital.

Kia’s Commitment to Sustainability

Kia’s West Point plant already manufactures over 40 percent of the brand’s vehicles sold in the United States. The addition of the EV9 to the lineup will further boost the facility’s output and solidify Kia’s commitment to sustainable mobility. As Kia’s first three-row electric SUV and the first Kia EV to be assembled in North America, the EV9 represents a pivotal moment for the company.

The President & CEO of Kia Motors North America and Kia Motors America, Sean Yoon, believes that the EV9 will be a game-changer for the brand. With its innovative features and exceptional road presence, this SUV will undoubtedly make a lasting impression on the EV market. What’s more, the EV9’s assembly in West Point, Georgia, reaffirms Kia’s dedication to its manufacturing operations in the United States.

Building a Skilled Workforce

Kia Georgia, a certified Georgia Made manufacturer, will continue to rely on the services of Georgia Quick Start, the nation’s top-ranked workforce development program. Through the Kia Georgia Training Center, Quick Start will provide comprehensive training that equips new employees with the skills necessary for success on the new assembly line. This partnership ensures that Kia continues to deliver exceptional vehicles while nurturing local talent.

Strong Community Partnerships

Stuart Countess, President & CEO of Kia Georgia, expressed his gratitude for the support received from the Governor’s Office, the Department of Economic Development, and Georgia Quick Start. Moreover, the partnerships with the City of West Point and Troup County have been instrumental in Kia Georgia’s success. Countess emphasized the positive impact that Kia has had on the lives of West Point residents, providing employment opportunities and fostering economic growth.

Recognizing Kia’s Contributions

Mayor Steve Tramell of the City of West Point paid tribute to Kia as an outstanding corporate citizen and community partner. The collaboration between Kia and the local community has created a strong foundation for a prosperous future together. Tramell extended his appreciation to Stuart Countess and all the team members at Kia Georgia, acknowledging their hard work and dedication.

Remarkable Collaborative Efforts

This project was made possible through the collaborative efforts of various organizations. Amanda Fields, Senior Regional Project Manager from the Georgia Department of Economic Development, played a crucial role in partnership with the West Point Development Authority, the City of West Point, Troup County, Georgia Center of Innovation’s Manufacturing and Energy teams, and Georgia Quick Start. Together, they ensured that Kia’s expansion plans aligned with the state’s economic vision.

Kia’s Impact on Georgia’s Economy

To date, Kia has invested more than $1.9 billion in the state of Georgia, with Kia Georgia alone responsible for over 14,000 jobs in the region. The significant foreign investment made by Kia in West Point since 2006 has solidified the brand’s presence in Georgia. Earlier this year, Governor Kemp and state lawmakers recognized January 31 as “Kia Day,” commemorating Kia’s vehicle manufacturing achievements and its substantial contributions to the state’s economy.

Georgia’s Electrification Revolution

As the electric vehicle market continues to thrive, Georgia has been at the forefront of job creation across the entire supply chain. The state has attracted over $22.7 billion in investment and generated more than 28,400 jobs since 2020. Kia’s decision to assemble the EV9 in Georgia is a testament to the state’s commitment to sustainable transportation and its potential to lead the way in this emerging market.

About Kia Georgia

Kia Georgia, Inc. serves as Kia Corporation’s first manufacturing site in North America. Based in Seoul, Korea, Kia Corporation selected West Point, Georgia, as the location for this significant facility. With an annual capacity of 340,000 units, Kia Georgia has been mass-producing vehicles since November 16, 2009. The plant currently manufactures the Telluride, Sorento, Sportage, and K5, with the all-electric 2024 EV9 SUV set to join the lineup.

About Kia America

Kia America, headquartered in Irvine, California, is a top-performing automotive brand known for its commitment to quality. Recognized as one of the 100 Best Global Brands, Kia offers a wide range of gasoline, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electrified vehicles across its network of over 750 dealers in the United States. Kia takes pride in assembling several of its cars and SUVs in America, solidifying its presence and contribution to the country’s automotive industry.

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