Hitachi Creating 200 Jobs in Berea to Build Electric Vehicle Motors

Tier 1 automotive supplier helping Kentucky position for long-term economic success

As Kentucky rebuilds its economy and puts new emphasis on attracting well-paying jobs and industries of the future, Hitachi Automotive Electric Motor Systems America Inc. is establishing a new, 200-job operation in Berea to manufacture motors for electric vehicles.

Leaders of the newly formed Hitachi subsidiary are renovating part of sister-company Hitachi Automotive Systems Americas’ plant at 1150 Mayde Road for the operation. Electric motor production could begin between April 2022 and March 2023, in part based on the pandemic’s impact. The operation currently employs about 20 people and is expected to grow to approximately 200 in 2023.

Established in Kentucky in March 2020, Hitachi Automotive Electric Motor Systems America will supply motors on a Tier 1 basis to Honda of America Mfg. Inc.

“We are pleased to establish this new business in Berea, where Hitachi Automotive Systems Americas has forged a robust, ongoing relationship with the local community and state officials over the years,” said Shingo Nakamura, president of Hitachi Automotive Electric Motor Systems America. “The new venture is a critical piece in strengthening Hitachi’s foundation in the fast-growing electric vehicle market and supporting the revitalization of the economy in Kentucky through job creation in response to COVID-19.”

In Kentucky, Hitachi Automotive Systems Americas operates four facilities. Those include two manufacturing plants in Berea making brake and suspension components at 1150 Mayde Road and 301 Mayde Road, and manufacturing and warehousing facilities in Harrodsburg, producing electronic control systems, actuators and fuel system components.