Hyundai considers expanding Georgia plant to 800,000 vehicles annually

Hyundai Motor Group is considering a major expansion of its Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA) in Georgia, potentially increasing annual production capacity to between 700,000 and 800,000 vehicles by 2028. If realized, the facility could become one of the largest automotive assembly plants in the United States, surpassing current capacities of major competitors.

CEO José Muñoz indicated that the company is studying this additional capacity to meet growing demand and increase the proportion of vehicles manufactured locally. Hyundai aims to raise its U.S. local production rate from approximately 40% in 2024 to over 80% by 2030. This move is part of a broader $26 billion investment plan in the United States through 2028.

A primary driver for this accelerated localization strategy is the 15% tariff applied to vehicles imported from South Korea. By expanding domestic production, Hyundai seeks to maintain price competitiveness and mitigate the impact of these duties. Beyond electric vehicles like the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 9, the company is also exploring investments in mid-size pickup trucks and SUVs to compete in broader North American market segments.