Learn about the various Toyota 4Runner manufacturing plants across the U.S., including the longest-running plant in North America and new facilities in North Carolina and Kentucky. Explore the innovative initiatives and technologies used in each plant.
Toyota 4Runner Manufacturing Locations
Longest-Running Plant in North America
Toyota’s manufacturing story in the United States begins in Long Beach, California, where the company’s longest-running North American plant, TABC, Inc., has been in operation since 1972. This plant has played an essential role in assembling products, showcasing Toyota’s commitment to long-term manufacturing excellence. Imagine a factory that has been running for over five decades, producing millions of vehicles with precision and reliability. It’s a testament to Toyota’s dedication to quality and consistency.
New Plant in North Carolina
In the future, Toyota will introduce its tenth U.S. manufacturing plant in North Carolina. This new facility will focus on the assembly of lithium-ion batteries for electrified vehicles. By 2025, this plant will be up and running, marking a significant step towards Toyota’s goal of increasing its electrified vehicle offerings. Think of it like a new chapter in Toyota’s manufacturing journey, one that’s all about embracing the future of sustainable mobility.
Plants in Alabama and Kentucky
Toyota has two major manufacturing plants in the United States: one in Alabama and the other in Kentucky. The Alabama plant is notable for its collaboration with Huntsville Utilities and Toyota Tsusho on a $49 million solar array project. This initiative provides more than 70 percent of the plant’s energy needs, highlighting Toyota’s commitment to renewable energy. On the other hand, the Kentucky plant is Toyota’s largest globally, employing nearly 10,000 people. It will be the first Toyota plant in North America to assemble a battery electric vehicle for the North American market. Imagine a plant that’s not just a factory but a hub of innovation and sustainability.
Missouri Plant with TNGA Architecture
In Missouri, Toyota has replaced every manufacturing line with the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) by the end of 2023. This new platform allows for the assembly of multiple types of vehicles, showcasing Toyota’s commitment to innovation. It’s like having a versatile toolbox that can build different projects with ease and precision. The TNGA architecture ensures that each vehicle meets high standards of quality and performance.
Mississippi Plant Assembling Corolla
The Blue Springs plant in Mississippi is unique because it’s the only U.S. facility to assemble the world’s best-selling vehicle, the Toyota Corolla. Since its inception in 2007, this plant has celebrated its 2 millionth vehicle assembled, demonstrating its efficiency and reliability. Imagine a factory that’s been producing millions of cars, each one a testament to Toyota’s engineering prowess.
Tennessee Plant with STEM Collaboration
In Tennessee, Toyota is committed to improving career readiness in STEM fields. In January 2024, the company kicked off a major collaborative effort with the Jackson-Madison County School System to offer middle school students a high-tech STEM curriculum. This initiative aims to inspire the next generation of engineers and innovators, fostering a culture of learning and innovation. It’s like planting seeds for the future, ensuring that the next wave of engineers will be well-prepared to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.
Texas Plant with Community Initiatives
Toyota Texas is dedicated to connecting with the communities around its plants. For example, the company partnered with VIA Metropolitan Transit to provide on-demand transit services for residents on the south side of San Antonio. This initiative helps close transportation gaps, making it easier for people to access essential services. Imagine a community where everyone has access to reliable transportation, thanks to the efforts of Toyota.
West Virginia Plant with Agrivoltaics Program
In West Virginia, Toyota has started an agrivoltaics program that combines agriculture and solar power generation. The 2.6 megawatt system generates enough electricity to power 420 homes, showcasing the potential of sustainable practices. To maintain the area around the plant’s 5-acre solar array, a herd of sheep is brought in to feed on grass and weeds. It’s like having a farm that’s also a power plant, demonstrating how sustainability can be integrated into daily operations.
Specific Plant Details
Toyota Alabama Solar Array
Toyota’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its Alabama plant, which has recently completed a $49 million solar array project. This initiative, in collaboration with Huntsville Utilities and Toyota Tsusho, aims to power up to 70% of the plant’s operations. Imagine a factory running on clean energy, just like a home powered by solar panels. This solar array is not just a step towards reducing carbon footprint; it’s a testament to Toyota’s dedication to renewable energy. The array’s capacity to generate 62,000 MWh of electricity annually makes it a significant contributor to the plant’s energy needs, ensuring a more sustainable future for manufacturing.
Toyota Indiana Plant Infrastructure
Toyota Indiana is gearing up for a significant transformation with the preparation of plant infrastructure to assemble an all-new, three-row battery electric SUV. This investment is part of Toyota’s broader strategy to embrace electric vehicles and reduce its environmental impact. The plant’s infrastructure upgrade will not only support the production of eco-friendly vehicles but also create new job opportunities and stimulate local economic growth. Think of it as a factory getting a high-tech makeover, ready to produce vehicles that are not only reliable but also environmentally friendly.
Toyota Kentucky BEV Assembly
Toyota Kentucky, the company’s largest plant globally, is set to become the first Toyota plant in North America to assemble a battery electric vehicle (BEV) for the North American market. This milestone marks a significant step towards Toyota’s goal of becoming a leader in electric vehicle production. The plant, which has been in operation since 1988, will now be equipped to handle the production of BEVs, ensuring that Toyota’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its products. It’s like a factory evolving to meet the demands of a changing world, adapting to new technologies while maintaining its high standards.
Toyota Missouri Manufacturing Lines
Toyota Missouri has undergone a significant transformation by replacing every manufacturing line with the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA). This architectural change allows for the assembly of multiple types of vehicles using a single platform, making production more efficient and flexible. Imagine a factory where different models can be produced on the same line, much like how a versatile kitchen can cook a variety of dishes. The TNGA architecture ensures that Toyota Missouri remains at the forefront of innovation, producing vehicles that meet the diverse needs of its customers.
Toyota Mississippi Global Bestseller
The Blue Springs plant in Mississippi is a global bestseller, having assembled over 2 million vehicles since its inception in 2007. The plant is the only U.S. facility to produce the world’s best-selling vehicle, the Toyota Corolla. This achievement is a testament to the plant’s efficiency and quality control. Think of it as a factory that has mastered the art of producing a beloved car, much like a skilled baker who consistently delivers perfect pastries. The Corolla’s success is a result of the plant’s dedication to excellence and its ability to meet the high standards set by Toyota.
Toyota Tennessee STEM Curriculum
Toyota Tennessee has launched a major collaborative effort with the Jackson-Madison County School System to offer a high-tech STEM curriculum to middle school students. This initiative aims to improve career readiness in STEM fields, ensuring that the next generation of engineers and technicians are well-prepared for the demands of modern manufacturing. It’s like a factory investing in the future by educating the next wave of innovators. By providing students with hands-on learning experiences, Toyota Tennessee is not only enhancing education but also fostering a pipeline of skilled workers.
Toyota Texas Transportation Gaps
Toyota Texas has partnered with VIA Metropolitan Transit to provide on-demand transit services for residents on the south side of San Antonio. This initiative helps close transportation gaps in the community, making it easier for people to access essential services. Think of it as a factory that cares about its community, just like how a neighborhood watch looks out for its residents. By addressing transportation needs, Toyota Texas is contributing to the well-being of its community, demonstrating its commitment to social responsibility.
Toyota West Virginia Agrivoltaics Program
The West Virginia plant has started an agrivoltaics program, combining agriculture and solar power generation. This innovative approach involves maintaining the area around the plant’s 5-acre solar array by bringing in a herd of sheep to feed on grass and weeds. The 2.6 megawatt system generates enough electricity to power 420 homes, making it a sustainable and eco-friendly solution. Imagine a factory that not only produces cars but also supports local farming practices, creating a harmonious blend of technology and nature. The agrivoltaics program is a unique example of how sustainability can be achieved through creative solutions.