Hyundai Eyes 800,000-Unit Capacity Expansion at Georgia Plant Amid U.S. Market Dominance Push

Hyundai Motor is evaluating an expansion of its Georgia Metaplant production capacity from 500,000 to 700,000-800,000 units annually by 2028. CEO José Muñoz stated the plans are under consideration but not yet confirmed. The $7.6 billion Metaplant, operational since 2022, currently produces the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 9 electric models. Hyundai aims to increase its U.S. production share to at least 80% by 2030, from around 40% in 2024. The U.S. remains Hyundai's top market outside Korea, with its share rising from 8.4% in 2020 to 11.2% last year.

Hyundai's expansion plans in Georgia reflect its strategic focus on the U.S. market, where local production is seen as a key differentiator. The company may also invest in body-on-frame vehicles, including trucks and SUVs, at a separate facility. The move comes amid ongoing trade tensions, with Hyundai leveraging tariffs to accelerate localization efforts.