Isuzu Motors has announced plans to establish a new production facility in South Carolina, USA, in anticipation of the electrification of commercial vehicles in North America. The company will invest approximately US$280 million in the new facility, which is expected to be operational by 2027 and employ over 700 people. By 2030, the facility aims to have an annual production capacity of around 50,000 vehicles.
The new facility will introduce a variable-model, variable-volume production system that can cater to the demand for both internal combustion engine and electric vehicles. It will be the first in the Isuzu Group to use a production line without conveyors or pits, allowing for maximum flexibility and scalability. Automation will be implemented in quality assurance processes to eliminate errors, ensure traceability of parts, and prevent the production of defective products.
Isuzu has been present in the North American market since 1984 and considers it a key market for the company. With record wholesales of 44,000 vehicles in the last fiscal year, Isuzu aims to strengthen its manufacturing, sales, and service operations in the region. The company also plans to expand its business by promoting local sourcing of components for the production of battery electric vehicles, in line with the expected growth in demand for EVs in the medium to long term.
The company’s strategic move to establish a new production facility reflects its commitment to staying ahead of industry trends and meeting the evolving needs of customers. By investing in advanced manufacturing technologies and focusing on quality assurance, Isuzu is positioning itself for continued success in the North American market.
