Hyundai Translead announces new plant in Illinois

CEO Sean Kenney announces a new Hyundai Translead manufacturing facility in Will County, Ill.
CEO Sean Kenney announces a new Hyundai Translead manufacturing facility in Will County, Ill.

Here's what you need to know

  • Hyundai Translead is investing more than $450 million in old Caterpillar and Lion Electric facilities in Illinois.
  • The new manufacturing plants will create more than 2,500 new jobs in Will County, Ill., and the surrounding area.
  • CEO Sean Kenney says the area has a skilled workforce that is steeped in manufacturing. The plants will open in 2027. 

Hyundai Translead will build a new plant in Will County, Ill., it announced on Monday at the ATA's Technology & Maintenance Council in Nashville. 

"Our position as the leading trailer manufacturer is the result of steady progress, continuous investment and an unwavering commitment to customer needs," says Sean Kenney, CEO of Hyundai Translead. "For more than 37 years, we've expanded our capabilities and refined our products to deliver solutions that support the customers and refined our products to deliver solutions that support the customers and communities we serve. The new facilities mark the next chapter in our journey and underscores the strength of our partnership with the leaders of Illinois who share our vision for long-term growth." 

[RELATED: Hyundai Translead adds New York, New Jersey dealer to network]

The plants will create 2,500 jobs, Hyundai Translead says, and is backed by an investment of more than $450 million. The two sites chosen were once home to Caterpillar's heavy equipment operations and Lion Electric's operations site. It will open in 2027.

"We are proud to welcome Hyundai Translead to Illinois as a new manufacturer in our state," says Gov. JB Pritzker. "Their investment represents a long-term commitment that will create 2,500 new jobs and opportunities for working families in Will County and beyond. Illinois will keep attracting major industries and job creators that are transformational for our economy and the communities and hardworking Illnoisans who power them." 

Kenney says the new plant will build on its California operations and bring the company closer to its customers. Within 100 miles, he says, there are more than 500 customer locations and a "tremendous" supply base. 

"Hyundai Translead's transformational investment reflects the strengths that have made Illinois a global center for advanced manufacturing and logistics," says Illinois Economic Development Corporation President and CEO Christy George. "With its central location, strong infrastructure and a highly skilled workforce, Illinois provides the environment manufacturers need to serve customers across the continent. We're proud to support Hyundai Translead's expansion and look forward to supporting its success."