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Area Development - Site Selection, Facility Planning and Workforce Development

Hitachi Automotive Electric Motor Systems America Plans Electric Motor Plant in Berea, Kentucky

01/18/2021
Hitachi Automotive Electric Motor Systems America Inc. is establishing a new, 200-job operation in Berea, Kentucky. The facility will supply motors on a Tier 1 basis to Honda of America Mfg. Inc.

The newly formed Hitachi subsidiary will renovate part of sister-company Hitachi Automotive Systems Americas' plant at 1150 Mayde Road for the operation. Electric motor production could begin between April 2022 and March 2023, in part based on the pandemic's impact. The operation currently employs about 20 people and is expected to grow to approximately 200 in 2023.

"We are pleased to establish this new business in Berea, where Hitachi Automotive Systems Americas has forged a robust, ongoing relationship with the local community and state officials over the years," said Shingo Nakamura, president of Hitachi Automotive Electric Motor Systems America. "The new venture is a critical piece in strengthening Hitachi's foundation in the fast-growing electric vehicle market and supporting the revitalization of the economy in Kentucky through job creation in response to COVID-19."

Established in March 2020, the company operates four facilities in Kentucky. Those include two manufacturing plants in Berea making brake and suspension components at 1150 Mayde Road and 301 Mayde Road, and manufacturing and warehousing facilities in Harrodsburg, producing electronic control systems, actuators and fuel system components.

"This new venture, along with the jobs and wages it will create, adds true momentum to our economic recovery and points to a bright future as we build a better Kentucky," Governor Andy Beshear said. "From an automotive workforce and industry perspective, it's also crucial that Kentucky continues to attract these kinds of forward-looking projects. The auto industry is in a years-long tectonic shift to electric vehicles. Throughout this, we must advance the commonwealth's role and reputation as a major player in this hugely important economic sector."

The newly formed Hitachi subsidiary joins more than 500 other automotive suppliers and four automotive assembly plants operating in Kentucky. The state's geographic position in the middle of the U.S. automotive corridor provides suppliers quick access to dozens of automotive assembly plants within a day's drive.

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