Autos Drive America Celebrates Kia Day, Applauds International Automakers’ Investments In Georgia

WASHINGTON, D.C.— Autos Drive America, the leading trade association representing international automakers with operations in the U.S., celebrated Kia Day in Georgia and applauded the investments international automakers continue making in the Peach State and across the country. The state of Georgia signed a resolution yesterday, highlighting Kia’s impact on the state.

“International automakers have proven their commitment to fostering economic growth in communities across the U.S., especially in Georgia,” said Jennifer Safavian, President and CEO of Autos Drive America. “To date, Kia has invested billions of dollars in the state, including $200 million announced last year to prepare its Georgia facility for electric-SUV production. These investments are helping to resurge manufacturing in the Peach State and provide quality, good-paying jobs.”

Kia’s manufacturing facility employs more than 3,000 people across Georgia and supports thousands more jobs. The manufacturer produces four models, including the K5, Sorento, Sportage, and Telluride, that are sold across the U.S. and exported to 12 countries and territories.

According to the most recent Autos Drive America Economic Impact Report, ten international automakers have a presence in Georgia, including Kia, BMW, Honda, Hyundai, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Subaru, and Volkswagen. These international automakers make significant economic contributions in the state:

• International automakers, dealers, and suppliers generated 67,906 jobs in Georgia in 2022, paying $4.9 billion in total employee compensation.
• International automakers invested $2.8 billion in Georgia’s auto industry, with growing investments to produce electric vehicles in the state.
• International automakers in Georgia produced 340,000 vehicles, accounting for 100% of production in the state.
• International automakers contributed $850 million in state and local revenues and $8.6 billion in Gross State Product.

In 2022, Hyundai Motor Group also announced the construction of several new facilities in Georgia to produce electric vehicles and batteries. Recently, Hyundai reported that its electric vehicle and battery complex, which will assemble six models across Kia, Hyundai, and Genesis, will open three months ahead of schedule.

“Georgia is a key example of the economic contributions and benefits international automakers provide in the states where they’re located,” Safavian continued. “These companies offer family-sustaining career opportunities, competitive wages and benefits, and critical community investments—and their presence continues to grow. We applaud Governor Kemp for his leadership and for recognizing the tremendous impact Kia Georgia is having on the state economy and workforce.”

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