The South Korean auto parts maker has opened its first U.S. production plant in Tuskegee, Alabama. Samkey reportedly invested $128 million in building the plant, which is expected to employ more than 170 people when in full operation.

“Samkey is a premier addition to Alabama's vibrant automotive industry, and the opening of its state-of-the-art facility in Tuskegee signals the automotive industry's continued strength in our state,” said Secretary of Commerce McNair. “I am confident that, like so many other Alabama companies, Samkey will grow and thrive in America's new industrial base.”

Samkey CEO Chihwan Kim said the facility will benefit the U.S. automotive supply chain and create new jobs in the region.

“We are excited to bring our first U.S. manufacturing site to Tuskegee, which was only possible with strong state and local leadership and support from across the region,” Kim said. “This important investment will help continue our continued growth in the automotive industry and strengthen the U.S. automotive supply chain.”

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Mayor Tony Hagood echoed Kim's expectations.

“The City of Tuskegee is grateful and excited to work with our new partner, Samkey America, to pave the way for a bright future,” said Hagood. “Their rapid deployment and success in such a short time is a great example of what we can accomplish when we all work together.”

“The new jobs and investment across the county will benefit residents for years to come.”

Samkey will become a Tier 1 supplier to Hyundai Motor Manufacturing's assembly plant in Montgomery, Alabama.

According to an analysis conducted by the University of Alabama, the plant is expected to generate an annual economic impact of $140.2 million for Macon County and contribute more than $37 million to the county's GDP. Additionally, the project is estimated to generate approximately $1.5 million in new direct tax revenue per year for schools and the local community.

Austin Shipley is a staff writer for Yellow Hammer News. You can follow him on X. @ShipleyAusten