BUFFALO, W.Va. — Toyota is adding jobs to its plant in Putnam County.
The automaker announcing a $912 million investment in its U.S. plants including $453 million at Toyota West Virginia in Buffalo where 80 new jobs will be created.
According to Toyota, the investment will “increase assembly of 4-cylinder hybrid-compatible engines, sixth generation hybrid transaxles and rear motor stators. The expansion, which will begin production in 2027, also includes new shift patterns for greater efficiency.”
The company said it’s responding to growth in the desire for hybrid vehicles.
“Customers are embracing Toyota’s hybrid vehicles, and our U.S. manufacturing teams are gearing up to meet that growing demand,” said Kevin Voelkel, senior vice president, manufacturing operations. “Toyota’s philosophy is to build where we sell, and by adding more American jobs and investing across our U.S. footprint, we continue to stay true to that philosophy.”
Gov. Patrick Morrisey said the continued investment speaks good about West Virginia.
This investment, which creates 80 new jobs for hard working West Virginians, reflects a strong confidence in our people and in the strength of our economy,” Morrisey said. “We are proud to see Toyota continue to grow in the Mountain State as they build world-class technology and drive the future of American manufacturing. I want to thank Toyota for believing in our workers, our communities, and our shared future.”
First District Congresswoman Carol Miller said the investment is a testament to to high-quality work done at the plant.
“I am thrilled they are expanding their operations in my district to increase hybrid engine production beyond the 1 million engines currently being produced annually. This incredible investment will bring 80 new, high-quality jobs to the community,” Miller said. “This announcement comes on the heels of Toyota’s previous commitment to develop a new on-site childcare center for their employees at the facility. Toyota continues to invest in their workforce and enrich our communities. I couldn’t be happier to have them here in West Virginia!”
Toyota is also investing in plants located in Kentucky, Mississippi, Tennessee and Missouri. The investment in West Virginia is the most dollar-wise.
Toyota recently committed to investing up to $10 billion in the U.S. over the next five years. The total investment announced Tuesday is $912 million equaling 252 jobs.