Hyundai just opened its massive new Georgia EV plant as the first IONIQ 5 rolls out

Hyundai is kicking off a new era as its $7.6 billion EV plant in Georgia is now officially up and running. The first US-made IONIQ 5 rolled off the assembly line and is scheduled to arrive at US dealers by the end of the year.

Hyundai’s $7.6 billion EV plant in Georgia officially opens

After breaking ground on the site in October 2022, Hyundai Motor Group’s Metaplant America (HMGMA) in Bryan County, GA, is now open.

Hyundai completed construction in just under two years, fast-tracking production as it looks to gain an edge with US-made electric models.

“After validating its production processes to ensure its vehicles meet Hyundai Motor Group’s high standards, (the Savannah plant) has started initial production of customer vehicles ahead of schedule,” a statement from Hyundai on Friday read (via The Atlanta Journal-Constitution).

The new facility is a significant milestone for Hyundai and Georgia as the largest economic development project in state history.

Hyundai initially invested $5 billion into the facility, which later grew to a whopping $7.6 billion. Just last week, the plant added its 18th supplier as Hyundai builds an extensive US network. Hyundai alone is creating an additional 8,500 jobs in the area.

EVs are creating jobs and attracting major investments

Another $5 billion EV battery plant is under construction in Bartow County through a partnership with SK On, creating another 3,500 positions.

Since 2018, over $28 billion has been invested in Georgia to build electric vehicles, batteries, and other clean energy projects. The initiatives have already attracted over 36,000 new jobs in the state.

According to a study from the Center for Automotive Research, Hyundai’s Georgia EV plant will help create over 58,200 new jobs. It will also attract over $12.6 billion in investments.

The state has worked with local universities and technical programs to help prepare a new generation of auto workers.

The first vehicle to roll off the assembly line is Hyundai’s updated 2025 IONIQ 5. The new Hyundai IONIQ 5 features even more range and a sharp new design. It even has an NACS charging port to access Tesla’s Supercharger network. Hyundai said it will be available by the end of 2024.

Later this year, Hyundai will unveil its first all-electric three-row SUV, the IONIQ 9 (which was recently spotted testing in the US). The larger electric SUV will be built alongside the 2025 IONIQ 5 in Georgia.

Hyundai said electric vehicles built at the plant will qualify for a partial $3,750 federal tax credit. However, once the battery plant opens, Hyundai expects US-made EVs will be eligible for the full $7,500.

The 2025 IONIQ 5 will be available with a new XRT trim for those who want to “play in the dirt and have all-electric adventures.”

Hyundai also announced its US-made IONIQ 5 will join Waymo’s robotaxi fleet on Friday as part of a new multi-year partnership.

With the 2025 model rolling out, Hyundai is offering significant discounts on 2024 models. You can use our link to view offers on the 2024 Hyundai IONIQ 5 at a dealer near you.