Toyota has kicked off production at a sprawling new battery plant in Liberty, North Carolina, pouring $13.9 billion into the facility that’s set to become a cornerstone for electric vehicle manufacturing right here in the U.S.
This 1,850-acre site marks Toyota’s first battery production hub outside Japan, and it’s already gearing up to churn out lithium-ion batteries for a lineup of popular models. Workers there will supply power packs for the Camry hybrid, Corolla Cross hybrid, RAV4 hybrid, and even a brand-new all-electric three-row SUV—the first of its kind built on American soil. At peak output, the plant aims for 30 gigawatt-hours annually, with 14 production lines running now and more slated to come online by 2030.
The move doesn’t stop at batteries. Toyota is committing another $10 billion to its American operations over the next five years, pushing the company’s total U.S. investments to almost $60 billion since it first set up shop here nearly seven decades ago. These funds will fuel advancements in hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric vehicles, strengthening supply chains and innovation on home turf.
Ted Ogawa, CEO of Toyota Motor North America, said, “Today’s launch of Toyota’s first U.S. battery plant and additional U.S. investment up to $10 billion marks a pivotal moment in our company’s history. Toyota is a pioneer in electrified vehicles, and the company’s significant manufacturing investment in the U.S. and North Carolina further solidifies our commitment to team members, customers, dealers, communities, and suppliers.”
Beyond the assembly lines, the plant stands out for its employee-focused perks, including on-site childcare, a medical clinic, pharmacy, and fitness center—turning the workplace into a supportive hub that helps families thrive while contributing to the economy.
This development promises a big win for American workers, with projections for up to 5,100 new jobs in North Carolina alone. It’s the kind of reshoring that revives manufacturing communities and pumps fresh capital into local economies, countering overseas dependencies and building resilience.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy welcomed the news, noting, “Under President Donald Trump’s leadership, America is open for business.” Such investments signal confidence in U.S. capabilities, fostering growth in high-tech sectors and ensuring more dollars stay stateside to support families and businesses.
