Toyota announced Wednesday it has officially begun production at its new $13.9 billion battery manufacturing plant in North Carolina, while committing an additional $10 billion to bolster its U.S. manufacturing over the next five years. The 1,850-acre facility in Liberty, North Carolina, marks the automaker's first battery plant outside Japan and is expected to create up to 5,100 new American jobs, Toyota said. "Today’s launch of Toyota’s first U.S. battery plant and additional U.S. investment up to $10 ...

Core Insights - Toyota Motor Corporation has commenced production at its first battery plant outside Japan, located in Liberty, North Carolina, marking a significant expansion in its U.S. operations [1][5]. Investment Plans - The company plans to invest up to $10 billion over the next five years to enhance U.S. manufacturing and future mobility initiatives, bringing its total U.S. investment to nearly $60 billion since entering the market [2][3]. Economic Impact - The Liberty plant, with an investment of nearly $14 billion, is expected to create up to 5,100 jobs, significantly impacting the Piedmont Triad region known for its manufacturing and transportation ties [4]. Facility Details - The 1,850-acre facility will produce lithium-ion battery packs for various vehicle types, with plans to operate 14 production lines and achieve an annual output of 30 GWh by 2030 [7]. Supported Models - Batteries produced at the North Carolina facility will support models such as the Camry HEV, Corolla Cross HEV, RAV4 HEV, and a new three-row electric SUV planned for U.S. production [8]. Community Engagement - The Toyota USA Foundation has pledged $2.7 million to expand its Driving Possibilities program in two North Carolina school districts, reflecting the company's commitment to workforce development and STEM education [9]. Market Reaction - Following the announcement, Toyota's shares increased by 0.82%, trading at $207.68 [10].

Core Insights - Toyota has commenced production at its new battery plant in Liberty, North Carolina, marking a significant step in its global vehicle electrification strategy [1][2] - The facility represents a nearly $14 billion investment and is expected to create up to 5,100 jobs in the U.S. [1][3] - An additional investment of up to $10 billion over the next five years will bring Toyota's total U.S. investment to nearly $60 billion [1][2] Investment and Economic Impact - The new plant is Toyota's first battery manufacturing facility outside Japan and will serve as a hub for lithium-ion battery production [3][4] - The facility spans 1,850 acres and has the capacity to produce 30 GWh of batteries annually [3] - The investment is anticipated to have a substantial economic impact on the Piedmont Triad region of North Carolina [2][3] Job Creation and Community Development - The establishment of the plant will create over 5,000 new jobs for North Carolinians [4][5] - The facility will include amenities for employees, such as on-site childcare, a pharmacy, a medical clinic, and a fitness center [4] - Toyota is committed to workforce development through educational initiatives, including a $2.7 million grant to local schools [6][8] Product Focus and Future Plans - Batteries produced at the North Carolina plant will power various Toyota hybrid and electric vehicle models, including the Camry HEV and a new all-electric 3-row BEV [4][9] - Additional production lines are expected to launch by 2030, expanding the plant's capabilities [4] Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation - Toyota has sold over 6.6 million electrified vehicles in the U.S. since 2000, demonstrating its commitment to reducing carbon emissions [9] - The company emphasizes building where it sells, aligning with its sustainability philosophy [9][10]