Toyota Launches Massive $14B US Battery Plant, Announces Expansion Plans
Toyota’s new $14 billion U.S. battery facility is now operational in Liberty, North Carolina, spanning 1,850 acres (equivalent to 121 football fields)—and the automaker hints it may grow even larger. The plant began production last week, marking a historic milestone in Toyota’s nearly 70-year American operations.
A Hub for Electrified Vehicles
The factory houses 14 production lines dedicated to batteries for:
- Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs)
- Hybrids (HEVs)
- Plug-in Hybrids (PHEVs)
At full capacity, it will produce 30 GWh annually, powering vehicles like the Camry Hybrid, Corolla Cross Hybrid, and RAV4 Hybrid. Batteries will also supply Toyota’s Kentucky plant and its Alabama joint venture with Mazda.
Expansion and $10B Investment
Despite its vast scale, Toyota executives confirm plans to expand further, citing a goal for 70% “electrified” sales by 2030. The company pledged an additional $10 billion investment over five years to boost electrification efforts, with part likely funding the plant’s growth.
Plant President Don Stewart noted the facility’s flexibility to produce varying battery types—including future solid-state technologies—and adapt to demand shifts between hybrid and EV models.
Toyota’s EV Strategy Shifts
While Toyota remains committed to hybrids, it plans to ramp up EV output:
- The site can support 600,000 hybrids, 74,000 PHEVs, and 45,000 BEVs annually.
- The 2025 RAV4 will be sold exclusively as a hybrid.
- Upcoming EVs include the C-HR SUV, bZ Woodlands SUV, and a three-row electric SUV.
