Toyota is investing an additional $10 billion in the U.S. at this crucial time | Carscoops

      The company has introduced a new battery manufacturing plant in North Carolina to support its upcoming three-row electric vehicle.

      Toyota is set to invest $10 billion in the United States over the next five years, enhancing its total investment in the country to nearly $60 billion. While details on the allocation of this funding were not disclosed, it comes at a time when the automaker faces tariffs and pressure from the Trump administration to increase domestic vehicle production.

      Recently, the White House announced that “Toyota plans to export its U.S.-made vehicles to Japan and open its distribution platform to U.S. automakers.” Additionally, the country has decided to permit the sale of American-made vehicles and “U.S. safety-certified vehicles” without further testing.

      The new battery plant in Liberty, North Carolina, has officially begun operations. This $13.9 billion facility is Toyota’s eleventh manufacturing site in the U.S. and its only battery plant outside of Japan. It is projected to create around 5,100 jobs and produce an annual battery capacity of 30 GWh. Although the opening coincided with the removal of the clean vehicle tax credit, the plant features 14 production lines that support electric vehicles, hybrids, and plug-in hybrids.

      Batteries manufactured at this facility will be used in models such as the Camry Hybrid, Corolla Cross Hybrid, and RAV4 Hybrid, as well as for the new three-row electric vehicle. While production has just begun, Toyota plans to add more assembly lines by 2030. Once construction is complete, the plant will also include a pharmacy, a medical clinic, a fitness center, and on-site childcare services.

      Toyota Motor North America CEO Tetsuo Ogawa stated, “The launch of Toyota’s first U.S. battery plant and the additional investment of up to $10 billion marks a significant moment in our company’s history. Toyota has been a leader in electrified vehicles, and our substantial manufacturing investment in the U.S. and North Carolina reinforces our commitment to our team members, customers, dealers, communities, and suppliers.”