Hyundai Motor Group on March 26 inaugurated its $7.6 billion electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing plant in Georgia, the first factory built under Chairman Chung Eui-sun’s leadership. The project marks a major expansion in the U.S. market, two decades after his father, Honorary Chairman Chung Mong-Koo, opened the company’s Alabama plant to begin local production.
The new Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA) aims to strengthen the company’s U.S. footprint amid rising concerns over tariffs under the Trump administration. Hyundai is increasing local production to reduce trade risks and strengthen its position in its largest overseas market.
Construction of the 11,760,000㎡ facility began in October 2022 and was completed in two and a half years. The plant has an initial production capacity of 300,000 vehicles per year, with an additional 200,000-unit expansion approved. Combined with Hyundai’s Alabama plant (360,000 units) and Kia’s Georgia plant (340,000 units), Hyundai’s U.S. production capacity will reach 1.2 million units annually. Based on its 2024 U.S. sales of 1.71 million vehicles, approximately 70% of Hyundai’s American sales will now be locally assembled.
The new factory is located within a four- to five-hour drive from Hyundai’s existing U.S. plants, enabling logistical efficiencies and economies of scale in parts procurement.
The inauguration comes at a critical time as Hyundai faces declining sales in South Korea and other global markets, with the U.S. remaining its key growth driver. However, the Trump administration’s push for higher tariffs on imported vehicles has raised uncertainty for foreign automakers.
Chairman Chung emphasized that the investment was about long-term commitment rather than immediate tariff concerns. “Hyundai Motor Group invests not only in technology and automobiles but, above all, in relationships. We are here not just to build a factory but to put down roots,” he said at the ceremony.
In a Q&A session, Chung dismissed suggestions that the plant was built in response to tariff risks. “Rather than preparing for tariffs, we see this as part of a broader effort to manufacture EVs with low-carbon steel in the U.S.,” he said, referring to Hyundai’s plans to use locally sourced sustainable materials.
Addressing Trump’s planned reciprocal tariffs set to take effect on April 2, Chung said, “Tariffs are a matter between governments. While individual companies will negotiate, the real discussions will begin after April 2.”
The HMGMA facility will initially produce Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 9 models before expanding to include all Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis EVs. Initially intended for EVs, the plant will start producing hybrids in 2026 to address slowing demand.
Previously, Hyundai’s two U.S. factories primarily produced internal combustion vehicles, with limited hybrid and EV output. The new plant significantly enhances Hyundai’s ability to meet growing U.S. demand for eco-friendly cars.
The plant incorporates cutting-edge automation and AI-driven manufacturing technologies. It is Hyundai’s first “software-defined factory,” digitizing the entire production process. AI-powered cameras detect panel defects, while Boston Dynamics’ four-legged Spot robots inspect vehicle specifications. Hyundai also plans to introduce the humanoid robot “All New Atlas” for trial operations.
Hyundai envisions HMGMA as an advanced EV production hub. The company is constructing a battery cell plant in partnership with SK On and LG Energy Solution, while four Hyundai affiliates—Hyundai Mobis, Hyundai Glovis, Hyundai Steel, and Hyundai Transys—operate facilities within the complex. Hyundai Mobis supplies battery systems, Hyundai Glovis manages logistics, Hyundai Steel produces automotive-grade steel, and Hyundai Transys manufactures seats.
The inauguration was attended by Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, U.S. Representative Buddy Carter, Georgia Institute of Technology President Ángel Cabrera, and South Korean Ambassador to the U.S. Cho Hyun-dong. Hyundai executives, including Chairman Chung, President and CEO Jose Muñoz, and Kia CEO Song Ho-sung, were also present, along with 500 attendees.
