Toyota Bodine’s commitment to Jackson and West Tennessee is expanding.
The company announced a $50.1 million investment, which will add 15 percent – or an additional 65,000-square-feet to the plant’s existing facility at 301 James Lawrence Road, near the Airport Industrial Park.
The announcement, which was made Thursday at Toyoto Bodine, means an additional 13 jobs.
Toyota Bodine in Jackson manufactures 4-cylinder engine blocks for Camry, Corolla, RAV4 and V6 engine blocks for, Camry Highlander, Sienna, the Tacoma pickup and the Lexus ES and Lexus RX, and the V8 engine block for Sequoia SUV and Tundra truck.
Toyota Bodine also manufactures automatic transmission cases and housings for Avalon, Camry, Lexus RX 350 and Sienna.
About 2.2 million engine blocks and transmission cases are manufactured each year at the Jackson facility.
“The most import resource is our people, said Wes Woods, president of Toyota Bodine, “Each day our team members produce high quality cylinder blocks and transmission castings that contribute to an amazing driving experience for our customers.
“This latest investment is a direct reflection of their hard work as well as Toyota’s commitment manufactured products in the United States.
“I’m also thankful for our strong partnerships with local leaders in Jackson, Madison County, and the state of Tennessee.”
Jerry Gist, mayor of Jackson, remembered when Toyota Bodine selected Jackson for the plant in 2003, and the growth that continues.
“Toyota’s continued investment in this community solidifies its long-term commitment here,” Gist said, “It validates this region – and its workforce – as one of the top locations to do business in the United States.”
The floorspace expansion will incorporate about 1.5 acres under roof at the 10 acre under roof plant.
“The $50.1 million investment in building and equipment will allow us to double our capacity to make hybrid transmission cases and housings, said Shawn Daly, Toyota Bodine, general manager, plant manager, “This secures a bright future for our team members, and allows us to put down deeper roots in Jackson and continue doing what we love to do – make Jackson a better place to live, work, raise a family and build a better community.”
(PHOTO: From left, Jerry Gist, mayor of Jackson, Wes Woods, president Toyota Bodine, Tracy Exum, regional director, Department of Economic and Community Development, Shawn Daly, Toyota Bodine Jackson, general manager, plant manager, Jimmy Harris, mayor of Madison County and Leah Almeling, Toyota Bodine, analyst, corporate communications)
David Thomas, Twitter – @DavidThomasWNWS
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