Hyundai Opens $12.6 Billion Metaplant in Georgia With Annual Production Capacity Of 500,000 Units

Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA), the largest economic development project in Georgia’s history, is now officially open. The $12.6 billion facility, located in Ellabell, Georgia, marks a significant milestone for Hyundai Motor Group (HMG) as it expands its electric vehicle (EV) and battery production in the United States.

The new plant will manufacture up to 500,000 electric and hybrid vehicles annually for Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis, with an initial production capacity of 300,000 vehicles per year. The factory will also produce a substantial number of batteries to support EV production. This massive investment is expected to strengthen Hyundai’s presence in the U.S. market and ensure that its vehicles benefit from government incentives designed to promote domestic EV production.

Euisun Chung, Executive Chair of Hyundai Motor Group said, “Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America not only represents the Group’s advanced manufacturing capabilities and commitment to innovation, but also our investment in relationships with our partners and communities right here in Georgia.”

The Inflation Reduction Act, passed in 2022, provided enhanced incentives for EVs, batteries, and battery components produced in the United States. Hyundai’s investment in Georgia positions the company to leverage these benefits for its customers. However, the future of these policies remains uncertain under the current administration, which could impact incentive structures for EV manufacturers.

Hyundai’s total investment in the United States has now reached $20.5 billion, with the Metaplant accounting for a significant portion of that amount. The company estimates that its U.S. operations have created more than 570,000 direct and indirect jobs. Specifically, the HMGMA facility is expected to generate 8,500 jobs by 2031, contributing to a broader economic impact of nearly 40,000 direct and indirect jobs in Georgia. Additionally, the Centre for Automotive Research projects that the plant will generate $4.6 billion in individual earnings annually. 

The facility was developed at an unprecedented pace. Hyundai agreed with the state of Georgia in May 2022, officially formed HMGMA by June 2022, and broke ground on the project within four months. The speed of development underscores Hyundai’s commitment to rapidly expanding its EV production capabilities in the U.S. 

Beyond manufacturing, the Metaplant includes several employee-focused amenities aimed at enhancing quality of life. A 41-acre ecological park, featuring trails, running tracks, sports fields, and picnic areas, will provide outdoor spaces for employees before and after work. This initiative aligns with Hyundai’s broader sustainability and workforce well-being strategy.

The Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant represents a key step in the company’s global EV strategy, ensuring a strong foothold in the U.S. market. The partnership with LG Energy Solution and SK On for battery production further strengthens Hyundai’s supply chain and manufacturing capabilities.