Major Expansion for Kia’s Georgia Plant
Kia’s announcement of a $200 million expansion at its West Point, Georgia, plant marks the company’s largest investment in the state since its arrival nearly 15 years ago. The new investment will focus on producing the EV9, Kia’s first three-row electric SUV, starting in the second quarter of next year. This expansion is expected to create 200 new jobs, further bolstering the local economy.
Boosting Local Economy and Enhancing EV Production
Governor Brian Kemp praised Kia’s commitment to Georgia, highlighting the benefits of the project for local job creation and the state’s goal to become a leader in e-mobility. The West Point facility, which opened in 2009, now employs over 2,700 people and supports a regional network of more than 14,000 jobs. This expansion, coupled with the future battery production in Bartow County and Hyundai’s nearby factory, underscores Georgia’s growing prominence in the electric vehicle sector.
Kia’s EV9 and Future Prospects
The EV9 is set to join Kia’s lineup alongside the Telluride, Sorento, Sportage, and K5 models produced in West Point. As Kia’s most innovative vehicle to date, the EV9 aims to match the success of the Telluride, offering new levels of performance and design in the EV market. While specific pricing details are yet to be announced, the vehicle is expected to qualify for federal tax incentives, making it an attractive option for consumers interested in electric SUVs.