Latest news with #HyundaiXCIENT
Business Insider
4 days ago
- Automotive
- Business Insider
Hyundai just built a $7.6 billion EV factory in Georgia to compete with Tesla and GM — see inside
The Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America is an all-new $7.6 billion EV factory. HMGMA, located near Savannah, Georgia, opened its doors in March of this year. The factory will be able to build 500,000 EVs and Hybrids for Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis every year. The $7.6 billion Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America, or HMGMA, is one of the newest and most technologically advanced car factories in the world. The plant, located near Savannah, Georgia, opened its doors in March and will be a key production facility for Hyundai's EVs and PHEVs, as well as those belonging to its Genesis luxury brand and sister company Kia. In a recent interview with Business Insider, Genesis North America COO Tedros Mengiste cited the investment as an example of Hyundai's track record for "visionary and strategic, and long-term thinking." I recently took a behind-the-scenes tour of Hyundai's new megafactory packed with autonomous robots and state-of-the-art tech. The Hyundai Metaplant is situated on a 3,000-acre campus in the south Georgia town of Ellabell. Located just 20 miles from the Port of Savannah, one of the busiest in the US, the plant not only gives Hyundai much-needed manufacturing capacity in the US to avoid import tariffs, but it also affords the company the flexibility to export vehicles abroad. It also gives Hyundai the production footprint to compete against rivals like Tesla, GM, and Rivian, which is also building a new factory in Georgia. Driving up to the factory, it's easy to be wowed by the sheer scale of the sprawling complex. It's Hyundai Group's second car factory in the state. The company also operates a $3.2 billion, 2,200-acre facility in West Point, Georgia, that builds Kia EV and ICE SUVs. I drove to the factory in a new 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 EV SUV, which is one of the vehicles assembled at the Metaplant. My tour began in the plant's modern main lobby. Hyundai broke ground on the facility in the fall of 2022 and took just two years to complete construction on the main production buildings. The Metaplant site consists of 11 buildings totalling 7.5 million square feet of space. The Metaplant is a marvel of vertical integration, with the goal of having as many key components, ranging from battery packs to seats, made on-site. Here's a Hyundai XCIENT hydrogen fuel cell semi truck used to transport parts and supplies to the factory. The production process starts in the stamping shop, where sheet metal is cut and stamped into parts that will make up the frame of the car. The sheet metal is supplied by the on-site Hyundai Steel facility. Stamped parts are transported by automated guided vehicles, or AGVs. The stamped metal panels are then stored in these massive racks. The Metaplant was originally expected to produce up to 300,000 electrified vehicles annually. However, Hyundai announced at the plant's grand opening in March that its capacity will be expanded to 500,000 units in the coming years as part of a new $21 billion investment in US manufacturing. Here are parts of the Ioniq 9, Hyundai's new flagship three-row EV SUV. The next part of the tour is the welding shop. Here, the stamped metal pieces are welded together by robot to form the body of the vehicle. The work done by the welding robots is then inspected by the plant's human employees known as Meta Pros. There are employee meeting and break areas located along the inspection and assembly areas. An employee cafeteria with remote ordering capability is located in the main assembly building. In addition to human eyes, the vehicles are also inspected by a pair of Boston Dynamics robot dogs called Spot. In 2021, Hyundai acquired an 80% stake in Boston Dynamics in a deal that valued the company at $1.1 billion. After the inspections are complete, a robot loads the partially assembled vehicles onto a conveyor system. Next stop, the paint shop. Unfortunately, my tour did not get access to the paint shop due to concerns that outside visitors may compromise the quality of the paint application. Here, the painted bodies are married with their battery packs and skateboard chassis. Hyundai Mobis produces the skateboard chassis in a building next door to the general assembly facility. The Metaplant's on-site battery factory, operated in a joint venture with LG, is expected to come online next year. The plant currently sources its batteries from Hyundai's other facilities, including one in North Georgia that's a joint venture with SK. The vehicles' interiors are then assembled by hand. The further along the production process, the more you see human workers on the assembly line. Partially assembled EVs are shuttled through from area to area by the automated robots. The entire facility was immaculately clean, quiet, and felt beautifully choreographed. Assembled vehicles are loaded onto different AGVs that navigate the facility by reading the QR codes embedded into the floor. These AGVs shuttle the vehicles through the plant's various quality control tests. At the end of the assembly line, completed EVs are put through their paces at the on-site test track before being sent to the vehicle preparation center, or VPC, to get them ready for shipping. Vehicles destined for dealerships in the region are put on trucks, while those traveling more than 500 miles are shipped by rail at the Metplant's on-site train terminal.
Yahoo
29-04-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
HydroFleet Propels Hydrogen Revolution Forward With HTWO Logistics Collaboration in Savannah, GA
The Industry's First High-Volume Class-8 Hydrogen Refueling Station in the United States POOLER, GEORGIA / / April 28, 2025 / HydroFleet, Inc. ("HydroFleet") is excited to announce the construction of its new hydrogen production and refueling station at the new HTWO Energy Savannah site in Pooler, Georgia. This state-of-the-art facility represents a significant investment in clean energy and sustainable transportation solutions, aimed at servicing zero-emission FCEV heavy trucks. This investment will significantly enhance the region's clean energy infrastructure, supporting zero-emission heavy-duty trucks and other clean energy vehicles, including port applications and nearby rail, while contributing to a sustainable future. "Pooler is an ideal location for HydroFleet's facility due to the proximity to major interstates, the Port of Savannah, and prospective fleet customers," said Scott Moe, President and CEO, HydroFleet, expressing his enthusiasm for the project. "We know customers want zero-emission fleets but have struggled to source the entire hydrogen ecosystem at a competitive price. Through strategic partnerships and proven, safe technology, HydroFleet solves this challenging industry problem. We look forward to partnering with Pooler to lead the clean energy transition to cost-effective, emission-free heavy truck fleets here in Georgia and across the U.S." HydroFleet's investment in Pooler is expected to bring significant economic benefits to the area, creating jobs and positioning Pooler, and the greater Savannah, GA, area, as a leader in clean energy solutions. The facility will utilize advanced hydrogen production and distribution technology to reduce emissions and noise pollution, contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable future for the community. "HTWO Energy Savannah is a breakthrough hydrogen production and refueling station for the heavy-duty trucking industry, allowing zero-emissions trucks to quickly and easily refuel at a single convenient location in the Savannah region," said Jim Park, SVP, commercial vehicle and hydrogen fuel cell business, Hyundai Motor North America. "The HTWO Energy Savannah hydrogen station will also truly fulfill our vision for Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America ("HMGMA") Clean Logistics, allowing our innovative new electric vehicle plant to transport plant shipments within a clean, zero-emissions ecosystem." "This marks a significant step forward in the decarbonization of emissions-intensive port operations and major logistics corridors," said Jonathan Choi, CEO, HTWO Logistics. "HTWO Energy Savannah provides hydrogen fuel for our Hyundai XCIENT hydrogen-powered class 8 truck fleet, which provides clean logistics for Hyundai's new Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America." John Porter, CEO of Capital Development Partners, the property owner and project developer, added, "We are thrilled to collaborate with HydroFleet on this groundbreaking project. This hydrogen production station will not only enhance the local economy but also establish Pooler as a leader in clean energy solutions. Our commitment to sustainable development aligns perfectly with HydroFleet's vision for a greener future." Seth Greengrass, Director, Origination of Axpo, the global energy contract provider for the project, commented, "Axpo is proud to support HydroFleet's innovative hydrogen production facility. Our expertise in energy trading and risk management ensures a reliable and efficient supply of feedstock, contributing to the success of this environmentally friendly initiative." HydroFleet also partnered with the Savannah Economic Development Authority ("SEDA") and the Southeast Hydrogen Energy Alliance ("SHEA") in development of the cutting-edge hydrogen facility. The collaboration encompassed comprehensive planning, strategic site selection, meticulous permitting processes, and robust public education initiatives, ensuring the project's success and community engagement. The deal was completed with legal assistance from Jennifer Surprenant and Raffael Fiumara, both shareholders of Greenberg Traurig LLP. HydroFleet was advised by Lazard, Inc. For more details, please contact: Leam NelsonChief Business Officer, HydroFleetEmail: info@ (833) 493-7635 Follow HydroFleet on Twitter | YouTube | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok About HydroFleet: HydroFleet is at the forefront of the clean energy revolution, spearheading the transition to hydrogen-powered mobility and adoption of green technology. We equip industries and fleets with an evolving range of streamlined solutions that maximize operational efficiency and profitability. HydroFleet's versatile hydrogen solutions fuel an increasing range of hydrogen applications, making the transition to a sustainable fleet effortless. HydroFleet, Power to make a difference®. Visit Contact Information Leam Nelson Chief Business Officerinfo@ 493-7635 Related Video SOURCE: HydroFleet, Inc. Related Images View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire Sign in to access your portfolio
Axios
17-03-2025
- Automotive
- Axios
How Hyundai Motor Group is driving U.S. jobs, innovation and more
While companies race to expand U.S. manufacturing, one automaker has been building here for more than 40 years — creating jobs, driving innovation and strengthening communities. Why it's important: Hyundai Motor Group (HMG), which includes Hyundai, Kia and other affiliates, is investing more than $20.5 billion in America across industries, including mobility, parts, construction and emerging technologies. It's also created more than 570,000 jobs nationwide. That's more than the population of Baltimore. In 2024, more than 700,000 HMG vehicle s were made in America, further supporting the U.S. economy. 🚗 Hyundai Motor Group's latest groundbreaking investment HMG's newest and biggest investment — the Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA) — involves a $7.59 billion investment and is set to create 8,500 new jobs. The state-of-the-art facility in Bryan County, Georgia, is HMG's first dedicated electric vehicle (EV)and hybrid mass-production plant. Up to 300,000 vehicles are expected to be produced annually at the Metaplant. The first vehicle that rolled off the line: the 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5, an award-winning all-electric SUV. More info: The Metaplant is an intelligent smart manufacturing facility, where AI and data-driven insights optimize every stage of production. Robots assist workers, creating a safer and more efficient environment. HMGMA is also leading the way in sustainable transportation with Hyundai XCIENT hydrogen fuel-cell trucks. These zero-emissions heavy-duty trucks transport vehicle parts from suppliers to the Metaplant. 👷 Empowering America's workforce HMGMA has already hired more than 1,000 full-time employees, known as "Meta Pros" — a name that reflects their essential role in transforming mobility and manufacturing. How it's done: To prepare workers for the smart manufacturing facility, HMGMA has partnered with four local technical colleges to offer student training programs. The Metaplant has also broken ground on the Hyundai Mobility Training Center of Georgia. The facility, opening in late 2025, will be operated by Georgia Quick Start and provide free training for employees. Meet Meta Pro Tucker Copeland. The 20-year-old from Lyons, Georgia, graduated high school in 2022 and now works at HMGMA. "There's plenty of opportunity for growth," he says. "When you step foot in here, it's going to blow your mind. If you stick with it, you'll do great. This is the future." 🤝 Contributing to the community In addition to manufacturing, HMG is also giving back to Americans and their communities. An example: Hyundai Hope On Wheels is one of the largest nonprofit funders of pediatric cancer research in the U.S. with a lifetime total donation of $250 million since 1998. The takeaway: Hyundai Motor Group isn't just building cars — it's building its future here in America. With a four-decade legacy in U.S. manufacturing, HMG is driving innovation, economic growth and community.
Yahoo
05-02-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
HydroFleet to invest millions in Pooler hydrogen production, fueling station
POOLER, Ga. (WSAV) – HydroFleet announced on Tuesday that it is investing nearly $33 million to construct a hydrogen production and fueling station in Pooler. The station will service environmentally friendly heavy-duty hydrogen fuel cell trucks. HydroFleet, a national specialized hydrogen equipment and hydrogen fuel supplier, has delivered more than 450,000 kgs of ready-to-use, gaseous hydrogen fuel to end user fleets. It is led by a management team with more than 40 years combined experience in the hydrogen industry. 'Pooler is an ideal location for HydroFleet's facility due to the proximity to major interstates, the Port of Savannah, and prospective fleet customers,' said HydroFleet's Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Scott Moe. 'We know customers want zero-emission fleets but have struggled to source the entire hydrogen ecosystem at a price that is competitive. Through strategic partnerships and proven, safe technology, HydroFleet solves this challenging industry problem. We look forward to partnering with Pooler to lead the clean energy transition to cost-effective, emission-free heavy truck fleets here in Georgia.' 'HydroFleet's investment in Pooler marks an exciting advancement in sustainable innovation and economic growth,' said Mayor Karen Williams. 'This facility will enhance our local economy while establishing Pooler as a leader in clean energy solutions. By utilizing safe, proven hydrogen technology, it will reduce emissions and noise pollution, helping create a cleaner, more sustainable future for our community.' Over 18,000 hydrogen-powered passenger vehicles are operating in the U.S., along with more than 570 hydrogen-powered buses and heavy trucks. In addition, there are more than 80,000 hydrogen-powered forklifts in operation today. Companies such as Amazon, Whirlpool and Walmart use hydrogen-powered forklift fleets. The new facility will initially refuel seven to 14 trucks a day, with future capacity reaching 50 a day. In December 2024, Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA), in cooperation with Glovis America, announced it has deployed Hyundai XCIENT heavy-duty hydrogen fuel-cell electric trucks for clean logistics operations. Initially, a total of 21 XCIENT trucks will be in operation. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
