Toyota has invested $922 million in its Kentucky plant to build a new advanced paint facility and further support electrification efforts.

The facility is designed to improve operational efficiencies, reduce environmental impacts, and enhance the quality of vehicle finishes.

The expanded 1-million-square-foot portion of the facility is slated to open in 2027. It’s expected to decrease carbon emissions by 30% and water usage by 1.5 million gallons annually.

Toyota aims to use its latest paint technologies to reduce production lead time, improve process accuracy, and offer more diverse color options.

The project also supports the plant’s efforts to increase flexibility for future vehicle production and moves Toyota forward in its goal to achieve zero carbon emissions by 2050, a press release from the OEM states.

“Not only will our customers get the dynamic and stylish exterior finishes they love but Toyota’s commitment to advanced paint technologies goes beyond aesthetics,” said Kerry Creech, president of Toyota Kentucky, in the release. “It encompasses efficiency, sustainability and quality, leading the industry in environmentally responsible manufacturing.”

Earlier this year, Toyota announced a $1.3 billion investment in the Georgetown site to bring assembly of an all-new, three-row battery electric SUV to the U.S. market in 2026.

“This year alone more than $2 billion is being reinvested in this plant,” said Creech. “As the company and industry evolve, we remain committed to putting our team members first, ensuring long-term job security.”

Toyota Kentucky’s 10,000 employees assemble the Camry Hybrid and RAV4 Hybrid.

“Kentucky and Toyota have formed a winning partnership over the past 40 years that has been transformational for families throughout the commonwealth, and this latest investment builds on that tradition of success. Thank you to the leaders at Toyota for once again investing in Kentucky and our incredible workforce,” said Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear.

Since 2020, Toyota has announced new investments of more than $20 billion into its U.S. manufacturing operations to support electrification efforts and increasing BEV production in the U.S. advances the OEM’s portfolio approach to electrification, according to the release.

Images

Featured image: Artist rendering of future Toyota Kentucky expansion provided by Toyota

A Toyota SUV on a Toyota Kentucky line. (Provided by Toyota)