Hyundai Motor Group on Sept. 18 reaffirmed plans to expand its Ellabell, GA, plant with a $2.7 billion investment to raise production by 200,000 vehicles annually, bringing total output to 500,000 units within three years.
The announcement comes in the wake of a Sept. 5 immigration raid that delayed the startup of an associated battery plant at the site by at least two to three months, according to Hyundai CEO José Muñoz. Spokesperson Michael Stewart said Sept. 18 the facility will open in the first half of 2026.
Most of 475 workers detained in the raid were South Korean nationals, including many on temporary assignments or subcontracted labor, with several having overstayed visas or lacking proper work authorization. Hyundai emphasized that none were directly employed by the automaker. More than 300 workers returned to South Korea on Sept. 12 after being held in detention in Georgia for a week.
Hyundai also said it plans to build 10 electrified models — hybrid and electric — at the expanded plant, up from only two currently assembled. By 2030, the company aims to make more than 80% of vehicles sold in the U.S. domestically, raising domestic content from 60% now.
The production hub, known as Metaplant, also houses several of Hyundai Motor Group’s affiliates, responsible for the development and production of vehicle components. Additionally, suppliers supporting Metaplant have established operations nearby, forming a large-scale cluster that enables fast and efficient parts supply.
With more EV and hybrid models being produced in the U.S., shops may eventually see shorter lead times for body panels, electrical components and chassis parts specific to these vehicles.
