Governor Kemp Surprises Georgia With Amazing News

Governor Brian Kemp recently announced an investment of over $200 million and hundreds of new jobs...

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Kia will invest more than $200 million and create nearly 200 new jobs at its West Point plant in Georgia, according to Governor Brian Kemp. The reason for the move is reportedly to help the company accommodate the assembly of its all-electric EV9 three-row SUV.

"Georgia’s longstanding partnership with Kia has led to generational job creation and growth for the West Point area," said Brian Kemp. "As a national leader in the automotive industry, I am proud of Kia's continued impact on the Peach State. As we noted earlier this year, this project will both bring more opportunity to hardworking Georgians and help propel the state toward our goal of becoming the e-mobility capital."

More than 40 percent of Kia vehicles sold in the U.S. are manufactured in Georgia, according to a press release by Governor Brian Kemp's office. "The addition of the EV9 to the lineup will further increase the facility’s output. As the brand’s first three-row EV SUV and the first Kia EV to be assembled in North America, the EV9 is the flagship vehicle for the company’s global Plan S strategy focused on sustainable mobility leadership."

“Like Telluride, EV9 has the potential to be another change catalyst for Kia,” said Sean Yoon, President & CEO of Kia Motors America. “This will be the most innovative vehicle that we have ever built and will be a standout in the EV market and on the road. Best of all, it will be assembled in West Point, Georgia.”

“For seventeen years Kia has been an outstanding corporate citizen and community partner, and we look forward to a strong future together. By providing employment opportunities and fostering economic growth, Kia has helped to improve the livelihoods of many people in West Point,” said City of West Point Mayor Steve Tramell. “We’re thankful to Stuart Countess, as well as for the hard work of all Kia Georgia’s team members and its many suppliers.”

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