Continental, a leading international automotive supplier, plans to invest significantly to expand over the next three years at its Culpeper, Virginia.

The Culpeper County plant is part of Continental's Chassis and Safety Division in North America. The plant has been located in Culpeper, Virginia, for more than 37 years. By increasing plant productivity, Continental's investment will bring growth and development to the county, including the potential for an additional 25 full-time jobs, company officials said.

"Continental is proud to be a longstanding corporate partner and employer in Virginia. Less than a year ago, we celebrated Continental's commitment in our Newport News facility and now we are pleased to do the same in Culpeper," Jeff Klei, President of Continental North America. "Thanks to the generous support of state and local officials, we are pleased to announce this intended investment. We remain dedicated to advancing technologies in our facilities and enhancing our manufacturing capabilities in North America."

"Growing the manufacturing industry in the Commonwealth is an essential element of diversifying and building the new Virginia economy," said Governor Terry McAuliffe. "Continental's continued success in Culpeper is a testament to the region's outstanding workforce, low energy costs and high quality of life. I look forward to working with Continental and other manufacturing companies from across the globe to bring jobs and economic activity to Virginia."

The intended investment will be used to upgrade the facility, provide training associated with the project and supply new equipment to increase productivity of the current stability control system product line, officials said. Additionally, Continental will expand the plant's product portfolio with the next-generation MKC1 stability control system.

The planned investment is part of Continental's ongoing commitment to regional economic development and manufacturing expansion. As a significant contributor of advanced vehicle safety components, including brake and suspension products, the Culpeper County manufacturing facility has produced more than five million valve blocks each year since 2012.

"Our team is looking forward to the investment and the potential to expand our workforce," Brandon Lane, Plant Manager said. "The expansion will have a significant impact on our employees. We are very optimistic about the future and excited to be a part of Continental's worldwide growth strategy."