The start of 2014 model year Highlander SUV production at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana (TMMI) would normally be no big deal.
But, after a US$430m spend adding 600 jobs at Princeton, the plant is set to make both hybrid versions and export more of the redesigned SUV – including Kluger-badged versions for Australia – replacing production in Japan.
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The plant starts on the hybrid version early next year. Meanwhile, Indiana’s Highlanders will also go to Russia and New Zealand.
“Highlander export business allows for better utilisation of the Indiana plant, and helps capitalise on the improving North American and global auto market. In addition to the new jobs created at the Indiana plant, this project increases opportunities and jobs for Toyota’s North American supply base,” the automaker said in a statement.
“The all new Highlander is a dynamic, stylish SUV and its quality craftsmanship and the fact that it will be exported to the Russian and Australian markets is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team members.” plant president Norm Bafunno said. “This really is a milestone for our entire team.”
The $4.2bn plant currently employs about 4,500, rising to 4,700 by the end of 2014. The plant, which started with the Tundra pickup about 16 years ago, also produces the Sequoia full size SUV and Sienna minivan.
