The U.S. joint venture between Hyundai Motor Group and SK On has started series production of battery cells. According to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Hyundai SK Battery Manufacturing America began mass production in June. The battery cells are being delivered to the Hyundai Motor Group’s “Metaplant America”, where electric vehicles for the U.S. market are manufactured.
The battery joint venture was established in 2023. Hyundai and SK On invested a combined $5 billion in the site. The state of Georgia supported the project with $641 million in tax incentives and other financial assistance.
Annual Capacity of 35 Gigawatt-Hours Planned
The plant site covers approximately 3 million square meters. Around 3,500 people work at the facility. Once production is fully ramped up, annual capacity is expected to reach 35 gigawatt-hours. However, manufacturing is currently still in the early stages.
The battery cells are expected to be assembled into battery packs by Hyundai Mobis. These packs are intended for electric vehicles manufactured in the United States by the Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis brands.
Georgia Expands Its Battery Industry
The new plant adds to Korean battery production in Georgia. SK Battery America already operates facilities for vehicle batteries and components in the state. Hyundai and LG Energy Solution are building another battery plant near the Metaplant. Construction was delayed when U.S. immigration authorities detained numerous Korean workers at the site.
