ZF Group plans to at least double its revenue in India by the end of 2030, according to CEO Mathias Miedreich, Autocar Professional reported Feb. 23. Miedreich described India as both a growth market and a global sourcing and export base for the group. He emphasized India's central role in achieving this goal, supported by growth across the automotive, rail, agriculture, construction and defense sectors. “Minimum double our revenue in India. That's the goal that Akash [Akash Passey, pr...

Hyundai Steel has announced that its affiliate Hyundai-Posco Louisiana LLC plans to undertake a capital increase of $2.9 billion for facilities investment in a US steel plant, Reuters reported the South Korean steelmaker as saying in a regulatory filing on Jan. 26. The development follows an earlier announcement by Hyundai Steel and its parent company, Hyundai Motor Group (HMG), of plans to establish a steel plant in Louisiana, US, with a projected annual capacity of 2.7 million metric tons. ...

Samvardhana Motherson International Ltd., an India-based automotive supplier also known as Motherson Group, is expanding its operations in Hungary through several investments, including a research and development program and the establishment of a regional services center. The company’s €54 million R&D project focuses on AI-based sensors and advanced visual systems integrated into rearview mirrors. The investment is set to create 55 new jobs for automotive product development professi...

Aluko Group has announced plans to establish its second US manufacturing facility in Halls, Tennessee. The South Korean supplier will invest $107.7 million to develop an integrated aluminum manufacturing operation in the former Tupperware building. The investment will create 285 new jobs in Lauderdale County. Aluko Group operates its first US production facility in Jackson, Tennessee. The new facility will support and expand Aluko Group's customer base in various industries, including electri...

Indian supplier Jaya Hind Industries has commenced an expansion of its Chennai manufacturing plant in Tamil Nadu, India, with an investment of approximately 2 billion rupees (nearly $22.3 million), Autocar Professional reported Dec. 18. The investment aims to significantly increase the capacity of the precision aluminum die-cast component supplier.  The expanded facility will feature high-pressure die-casting machines with capacities ranging from 1,400 to 4,400 metric tons, designed to p...

Hyundai Steel has teamed up with the Posco Group to jointly establish a steel manufacturing plant in Donaldsonville, Louisiana, US. The two South Korean steel companies will invest $5.8 billion in the greenfield plant, which is expected to commence commercial production in early 2029. Hyundai Motor Group — including Hyundai Steel, Hyundai Motor and Kia — will collectively hold an 80% equity stake in the venture, with Posco Group securing the remaining 20%. The total project cost will be s...

Mitsubishi Chemical Corp. has announced plans to increase its carbon fiber production capacity in Japan and the US. The company’s decision is in response to the growing demand for lightweight and high-performance products in the sports and leisure, aerospace and automotive sectors, where carbon fiber is increasingly sought after for high-end applications. Mitsubishi Chemical's carbon fiber is noted for its exceptional strength and elastic modulus, meeting strict quality standards. To meet r...

Benteler has completed a significant modernization of its casthouse at the Raufoss Industrial Park in Norway. This investment aims to increase the use of recycled aluminum from 30% to 40% at the plant, with a goal of reaching 50% by 2030, while also decreasing CO2 emissions in the production process. The initiative supports Benteler's commitment to sustainable automotive production and assists original equipment manufacturers in achieving their climate objectives.  This modernizatio...

On Nov. 22, Yokohama Rubber held an inauguration ceremony for its new passenger car tire plant in Hangzhou, mainland China. This plant was the first developed under Yokohama Rubber's 1-year plant challenge, which aims to complete the construction of a plant within a year and achieve low-cost, highly efficient production.  Construction of the new plant started in December 2024 and was completed by November 2025, ahead of schedule. The plant aims to quickly achieve mass prod...

Carlex Glass America, a US-based supplier of automotive glass, has announced plans to expand its advanced manufacturing operations in Nashville, Tennessee. The company is investing nearly $55 million in the project, which is expected to create 143 new jobs and equip its campus with advanced production lines. Scheduled for completion in mid-2026, the expansion will enable Carlex to manufacture larger precision-formed automotive glass products. Carle...

BASF Coatings has established a new laboratory at its site in Wuerzburg, Germany, reinforcing its commitment to digitalization, occupational safety, efficiency and sustainability. The laboratory operates under the innovative Lean Lab concept, focusing on the development and production of waterborne basecoats for the European automotive industry. Ralf Otte, vice president of Global Technology, Automotive OEM Coatings at BASF Coatings, highlighted the global rollout of the Lean Lab, emphasizing...

Indian auto parts supplier JBM Group has finalized a joint venture with Portugal-based Sodecia Automotive International to establish a hot stamping manufacturing facility in Chakan, near Pune in Maharashtra, India, Autocar Professional reported Nov. 20. The two partners have laid the foundation stone for the new plant at JBM Group's Neel Metal Products Ltd. facility in Chakan. This JV entails an investment of 1.5 billion rupees (nearly $16.7 million), with the facility expected to be operational...

General Motors (GM) has announced plans to invest approximately $250 million in its Parma Metal Center in Ohio, US. This investment will facilitate the production of sheet metal stamping and assemblies to support the automaker’s Orion Assembly in Michigan, US; Spring Hill Manufacturing in Tennessee, US; and Fairfax Assembly in Kansas, US. With this investment, GM’s total manufacturing investments for 2025 will reach approximately $5.5 billion, reflecting the company's focus on dome...

BASF Coatings has inaugurated a production facility for automotive original equipment manufacturing coatings at its Muenster site in Germany. The new plant focuses on producing high-demand colors and aims to ensure consistent product quality and improved production efficiency. This investment marks a strategic milestone that strengthens BASF Coatings' competitiveness in high-volume coatings, leveraging advanced automation to support sustainable operations and enhance process reliability. This...

Samvardhana Motherson Group has announced plans to invest $50 million to expand its Zitlaltépec plant in Tlaxcala, Mexico, according to a report by MexicoNow published Nov. 7. The planned investment will help the India-based auto components supplier serve its primary customer, Audi, and accommodate the anticipated increase in production of the Audi Q5 model. The expansion project is expected to generate 150 direct jobs and 300 indirect jobs, reinforcing Motherson's role as a major industrial em...

Automotive interior systems supplier Inteva Products announced plans to expand its operations in India with the establishment of a second manufacturing facility in Pune, Maharashtra, The Hindu Business Line reported Nov. 10. This expansion will include the introduction of next-generation products aimed at the Indian automotive market.  The new Pune facility marks a significant capacity increase for Inteva, allowing for higher production volumes and closer integration with local supply ch...

Continental has achieved important milestones in its realignment plans during the past quarter, including the spin-off of Aumovio and the agreement to sell its Original Equipment Solutions (OESL) business area. The final stages of its realignment involve the sale of ContiTech next year and a strategic focus on its Tires business. Continental faced challenging market conditions in the third-quarter of 2025 due to economic uncertainties, but the Tires group sector performed well, particularly in N...

Yokohama Industries Americas de Mexico (YIA Mexico), a subsidiary of Yokohama Rubber’s Yokohama Industries Americas Inc., which is engaged in the production and sales of automotive hoses for air conditioning and transmission oil cooling, is expanding its presence in Mexico. YIA Mexico will invest 464 million pesos (nearly $25 million) to expand production lines and warehouse facilities at its Aguascalientes plant in Mexico. The expansion aims to meet the growing assembly needs of automotive cu...

Vingroup has announced the establishment of VinMetal joint stock company for manufacturing and trading, marking its entrance into the metallurgy industry and expanding its Industrials & Technology pillar. VinMetal will be launched with an initial investment of 10 trillion dong (approximately $380 million) and plans to build a high-tech industrial steel production complex in Vũng Áng, Hà Tĩnh. The first phase is expected to produce about 5 million metric tons per year. The company will...

OPmobility has expanded its manufacturing presence in India with the opening of a new facility in Badhawaldi, Maharashtra. The move is part of the French supplier's strategy to more than double its sales in India by 2030. The Badhawaldi plant is OPmobility's first site in India to integrate both exterior systems and energy storage systems within a single facility. The facility will cater to both domestic and export markets, supplying Indian and international automakers. Furthermore, OPmobilit...

ArcelorMittal Tailored Blanks (AMTB), a division of ArcelorMittal that specializes in laser-welded blanks (LWBs), also known as tailored blanks, is set to enhance its presence in North America by constructing a new 154,000-square-foot blanking facility in Ingersoll, Ontario. This new facility will combine advanced blanking technology with sustainable manufacturing practices, underscoring AMTB’s dedication to innovation and environmental responsibility in the automotive sector. LWBs are...

Henkel has launched its new Inspiration Center for Adhesive Technologies in Shanghai with the goal of boosting innovation and sustainable solutions in the Asia-Pacific region. The Germany-based company invested €60 million in the 33,000-square-meter center, located in Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park. The center brings together more than 500 scientists and experts specializing in product development, application technology and technical services. The new facility caters to various industries, incl...

In a press release dated Sept. 22, Neo Performance Materials announced that it had opened its advanced permanent magnet manufacturing facility in Narva, Estonia, marking a pivotal development in its European presence. This facility is designed to support the growing demand for rare earth magnets, crucial for electric vehicles, wind energy and other sectors fueling the energy transition. A concurrent Investor/Analyst Day offered attendees insights into Neo's operations, featuring tours of the ...

Hyundai Steel has commenced commercial production of its third-generation steel plates for automobiles after a decade of research. These innovative steel plates, produced at the Dangjin Steelworks, aim to capture the global automaker market by offering a superior balance of strength and formability. The company modified existing facilities to support production and is testing these plates with major customers, including Hyundai Motor Group. The third-generation steel plates boast increased te...

Borealis is committing over €100 million to enhance its polypropylene (PP) compounding facilities in Schwechat, Austria. The new production line is slated to commence operations in the latter half of 2026, increasing the supply of advanced PP compounds predominantly used in consumer products, mobility and infrastructure applications. This investment is part of Borealis' We4Customers strategy, designed to assist customers in achieving their performance and sustainability goals. The expansion...

Tesla is establishing a new European development center in Berlin, Germany, according to a report by web portal electrive on Sept 4. The new center will focus on material research as well as vehicle and driver development. Tesla’s executive Lars Moravy announced that the electric car company plans to renovate an old factory complex covering approximately 20,000 square metres in the southeastern district of Köpenick. This site, located between the city center and the Brandenburg plant in Gr...

South Korean automaker Hyundai Motor Group has announced plans to increase its investment in the US to $26 billion between 2025 and 2028. This investment marks an addition of $5 billion to the previously announced $21 billion in March 2025. The fund aims to bolster strategic initiatives in the automotive, steel and robotics industries within the US market. As part of this expanded commitment, a new steel mill is planned in Louisiana to support US industries such as automotive manufacturi...

Freudenberg Sealing Technologies (FST) is undergoing a significant transformation at its Manchester, New Hampshire, site, transitioning from producing gaskets for combustion engines to focusing on e-mobility and hydrogen applications. This shift is supported by major investments and a funding initiative from the US Energy Department. The site will now prioritize manufacturing sealing solutions for battery housings and e-drive systems, necessitating the introduction of new semi- and fully-auto...

The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has pledged A$44.9 million to support Calix in constructing a demonstration plant utilizing its Zero Emissions Steel Technology (ZESTY). This plant, powered by renewable electricity and hydrogen, aims to produce up to 30,000 metric tons of low-carbon hydrogen direct reduced iron (HDRI) and hot briquetted iron (HBI) annually, marking a significant step toward cleaner steel production. ZESTY incorporates Calix's proprietary Flash Calciner technolog...

Boston Metal has announced a $51 million convertible note investment from existing investors such as BHP Ventures, Breakthrough Energy Ventures, Piva Capital and SiteGround. This funding reflects continued investor confidence in the company's team, technology and strategy. The funds will be used to support the second phase of Boston Metal's critical metals plant in Brazil, expected to be operational by mid-2026, and further develop its green steel solution. According to Laurel Buckner, vice pres...

Gabriel India Ltd. will invest 268.3 million rupees (about $3.1 million) to acquire a 51% stake in Jinhap Automotive India Private Ltd. (JAIPL), forming a joint venture with South Korea's Jinos Co. Ltd., Autocar Professional reported July 9. The decision was made during Gabriel India's board meeting on July 9 to manufacture fasteners for the automotive and industrial sectors. With this investment, JAIPL will become a subsidiary of Gabriel India, while Jinos will retain a 49% stake. ...

Thyssenkrupp Steel Europe has completed a major strategic investment at its Duisburg location, marking a significant milestone for Germany's largest steelmaker. The investment, totaling approximately €800 million, includes the introduction of new high-tech facilities such as continuous casting line 4, a modernized hot strip mill 4 with new walking beam furnaces, and a fully automated slab logistics system. These developments are part of thyssenkrupp's effort to modernize and optimize its pr...

According to a press release July 1, Q5D, a robotic cell manufacturer that automates product electrification, is expanding its technical assessment center in Bristol, UK, doubling its resources. This center is crucial for conducting feasibility studies and prototyping by embedding wiring directly into product structures, eliminating the need for separate wire harnesses. The patented process, utilizing a 5-axis manufacturing robot, is particularly sought after in the automotive and aerospace i...

Sona Comstar, India's largest importer of rare earth magnets, plans to begin domestic production of critical components used in electric vehicles in response to mainland China's export restrictions. Mainland China is responsible for about 90% of global rare earth magnet production and has imposed export limitations as a countermeasure to US tariffs. Despite a recent agreement between the US and mainland China to expedite rare earth export approvals, many governments and companies are seekin...

Sekisui Chemical has announced plans to invest in a new manufacturing plant in Chakan, near Pune in Maharashtra, India, to produce injection-molded parts for the Indian automotive market. The Japanese supplier will invest about $3 million in the new facility, its sixth in the country, with the goal of commencing operations by January 2026.  Sekisui Chemical's high-performance plastic company has identified the injection-molding business within the mobility sector as a...

Indian automotive supplier Uno Minda Group announced its plan to invest 2.1 billion rupees (about $24.2 million) in establishing a greenfield aluminum die-casting facility in Sambhaji Nagar, Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India, to cater to the increasing demand for electric vehicles, The Hindu Business Line reported June 19. The investment will be carried out in several phases over the next five years, with funding sourced from a balanced mix of internal accruals and debt. The first phase of the p...

TDK Ventures, the corporate venture capital arm of TDK Corp., is expanding into the European market, establishing its first office in London. The company has also launched a $150 million multilimited-partner fund named EX1 to support clean technology and sustainable energy solutions in Europe and North America. The EX1 fund will target energy-transformation startups in the Seed and Series A stages. This strategic decision aligns with TDK Ventures' dedication to electrification&nbs...

Nippon Steel Corp. and United States Steel Corp. have finalized a significant partnership, concluding an 18-month process marked by political scrutiny and national security considerations. Under the terms of the $14.9 billion agreement, Nippon Steel has acquired all outstanding shares of U.S. Steel at $55 per share, while U.S. Steel will retain its iconic name and headquarters in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The steel produced will continue to be “mined, melted and made” in the US, pr...

Tokai Kogyo, a Japan-based supplier known for manufacturing rubber and resin automotive components, has announced a $5.2 million investment to expand its production lines in Aguascalientes, Mexico. This expansion will occur at Tokai Kogyo’s plant in the Siglo XXI Industrial Park, where the Japanese supplier has been operating since 2014. The announcement was made during a meeting between Tokai Kogyo executives and Aguascalientes Gov. María Teresa Jiménez, who highlighted the state's advan...

Valmet Automotive has completed the expansion of its manufacturing plant in Zary, Poland, which produces convertible roofs and kinematic systems for the automotive market, the Finland-based company said in a press release on June 10. The expansion adds an 8,800-square-meter area to the plant, resulting in a total production area of 26,000 square meters, to meet rising demand from customers. The Zary plant plays a vital role as a technology provider and ...

Posco Holdings, the parent company of South Korea-based steel manufacturer and battery materials supplier Posco Group, has inaugurated a key minerals research center in Perth, Australia. This initiative is part of the group's strategy to gain a technological advantage in advanced materials, which includes steelmaking, battery materials and rare earths. The center aims to enhance low-carbon steelmaking processes and reduce costs in lithium and nickel production. Additionally, it will focus on dev...

Borealis is investing over €100 million to expand its production capacity for Daploy High Melt Strength polypropylene (HMS PP) at its Burghausen facility in Germany. This innovative polymer foam solution aligns with the growing demand for recyclable, high-performance materials in various industries, such as consumer products, automotive, and building and construction. The new production line, set to commence operations in the second half of 2026, will triple the supply capability for fully rec...

Clarios, the largest manufacturer and recycler of low-voltage batteries, announced plans to invest up to $1 billion in a new critical minerals processing and recovery plant in the US. This decision is facilitated by recent executive orders and federal advanced manufacturing tax credits. The initiative is part of Clarios' strategy to enhance the domestic supply of critical minerals, which are essential for national security. The company has conducted preliminary site assessments in Indiana, US...

Kingfa, a mainland China-based company specializing in plastic injection and molding parts, plans to invest $84 million to expand its operations in San Luis Potosí, Mexico. This investment involves building a manufacturing, research and development complex in the Logistik III Industrial Park in the municipality of Villa de Reyes. The planned investment includes $15 million for purchasing a 15-hectare site where the main building and a new warehouse will be built. Kingfa h...

Bosch has launched a new fund worth €250 million through its wholly owned subsidiary, Bosch Ventures. This initiative underscores the Germany-based company's unwavering commitment to investing in startups globally, even in the face of current economic uncertainties. Bosch Ventures will use this fund to target investments in high-growth potential startups in automation, electrification, climate tech, healthcare and software technologies. "Our funding in startups not only foste...

Hyundai Motor Group and Posco Group have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to collaborate in the steel and battery sectors, aiming to enhance their global competitiveness. The agreement, signed in Seoul, South Korea, focuses on boosting Hyundai's resilience to the rapidly changing global market and strengthening Posco's position as a supplier of automotive steel and key battery materials. A significant aspect of this collaboration is Posco's planned equity investment in Hyundai ...

Cellasto, a prominent player in noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) components, has announced a significant expansion in the Chinese market with an investment of approximately €60 million to establish a second plant in Shanghai. This new facility is set to cater to the rapidly growing electric vehicle market in China and is expected to increase production capacity by nearly 70% when operations begin in 2027. A ceremony was held on April 14 to mark the commencement of this expansion. Martin...

Fuyao Glass Industry Group, a mainland China-based automotive glass supplier, has announced plans to invest $400 million in expanding the production capacity of its float glass plant located in Decatur, Illinois. The company will invest in a new production line to meet the growing demand for high-quality float glass for Fuyao Glass’ auto glass factory in the US to ensure raw material availability and reduce operational costs. The Decatur plant has annual capacity to produce 280,000 metric tons...

BASF's Coatings division has announced the completion of a significant expansion to its polyester and polyurethane resin production capacity at the Caojing plant in Shanghai. Originally launched in 2015 with the capacity to produce 8,000 metric tons annually, the plant's capacity has now more than doubled to 18,800 metric tons per year. This expansion is aimed at supporting the growing market demands within the automotive industry in China and the broader Asia-Pacific region. In addition to the ...

Kobe Steel has registered a joint venture company in mainland China for producing automotive aluminum panels. This development came after receiving approval from regulatory authorities in Japan and mainland China, following an agreement signed on Aug. 8, 2024, with Baoshan Iron & Steel Co. Ltd. and Baowu Aluminum Technology Co. Ltd., subsidiaries of China Baowu Steel Group. The JV aims to integrate continuous heat treatment and finishing lines for aluminum panels to cater to the increasing d...

UVeye, a leading company in AI-driven vehicle inspection technology, has recently announced a substantial funding round amounting to $191 million, elevating its total capital raised to $380.5 million. This funding, a mix of equity and debt, aims to support UVeye's rapid growth in response to the increasing global demand for its innovative vehicle inspection systems. The company is on the verge of scanning 1 million vehicles every month, indicating its strong position in the industry. The fund...

Indian auto component supplier Sundaram Clayton Ltd. (SCL) has inaugurated a new die-casting facility in Thervoy Kandigai, near Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, Autocar Professional reported Feb. 1. The facility will manufacture aluminum die-cast components, including engine parts and structural elements specifically designed for electric vehicles, incorporating digital manufacturing to cater to both local and global markets. SCL has also expanded its US operations with the successful commissionin...

Bridgestone has announced its plans to construct a pilot demonstration plant for the precise pyrolysis of end-of-life tires at its facility in Seki City, Gifu Prefecture, Japan. The plant, set to commence operations in 2027, is aimed at showcasing technology for the chemical recycling of tires, specifically to extract tire-derived oil and recovered carbon black. This initiative is part of Bridgestone's strategy outlined in its midterm business plan (2024-2026) for sustainable growth and aligns w...

Toyota Kentucky has announced a significant investment of $922 million to construct a new advanced paint facility, emphasizing the company's dedication to US manufacturing, environmental sustainability and stable employment. This state-of-the-art facility, set to open in 2027, aims to enhance operational efficiencies, diminish environmental impacts and improve the quality of vehicle finishes. The addition will expand the plant's capacity by 1 million square feet, while targeting a 30% re...

Shanghai Electric has announced the construction commencement of Nedschroef's second automotive fastener factory located in Tarragona, Spain. This new factory is part of a strategic move to bolster Nedschroef's production capabilities and operational efficiency within Europe, aligning with a three-year action plan aimed at optimizing its production capacity. The establishment of this factory in Tarragona, a key city in northeastern Spain, signifies Shanghai Electric's ongoing commitment to th...

Dongfeng Motor has launched a project to enhance its capabilities in manufacturing car body parts for new-energy vehicles (NEVs). The automaker has introduced what it claims to be the world's largest integrated die-casting machine, a 16,000-metric-ton giant, to produce chassis components and battery housings for NEVs, according to China Daily. The advanced die-casting technology, more widely known as gigacasting, simplifies the manufacturing process by merging hundreds of auto parts into a si...

Sabic, a globally diversified chemicals company, has inaugurated its new ULTEM resin manufacturing facility in Singapore with an investment of S$220 million (US$170 million). This marks Sabic's first advanced specialty chemical production unit in the region that focuses on producing ULTEM resin, a high-performance thermoplastic. The establishment of this facility aligns with Sabic's strategy to boost its global production of ULTEM specialty resin by over 50%, aiming to mee...

Amara Raja Energy and Mobility Ltd. is set to begin commercial operations at its new lead acid battery recycling plant in Tamil Nadu, India, by the end of November. This move is part of the company's strategy to increase the use of recycled lead sources in its manufacturing processes. The plant, which is a project of subsidiary Amara Raja Circular Solutions located in Cheyyar, Tamil Nadu, aims to eventually meet 25-30% of Amara Raja's overall raw material needs. The facility, with an initial ...

Automotive component supplier Schaeffler AG has opened a state-of-the-art technology center at its headquarters in Herzogenaurach, Germany, the company announced on October 30. Schaeffler said the company has invested around €90 million in constructing the technology center, which was completed on schedule in two years and five months. The all-new technology center is spread across an area of more than 18,000 square meters and aims to bring together core areas of expertise in materials scie...

Benteler Group, a prominent entity in the automotive sector, announced a significant investment in its Spartanburg, SC, plant, aiming to bolster its automotive manufacturing capabilities. This investment, which falls in the mid-double-digit million dollar range, is allocated for upgrades and the modernization of the plant's machinery and equipment. The objective behind this financial outlay is to enhance the efficiency of the production and assembly facilities at the Spartanburg site, which h...

Niron Magnetics, recognized as the sole producer of rare earth-free permanent magnets, has inaugurated its commercial pilot plant in Minneapolis. This pioneering facility focuses on crafting a sustainable alternative to rare earth permanent magnets, which are pivotal in various sectors including electric vehicles, wind energy and consumer electronics. Slated to begin operations in 2026, the Sartell, Minn., facility aims to produce 1,500 metric tons of rare earth-free magnets per year t...

Dutch company AMG has inaugurated the first lithium refinery plant in Europe, situated in the eastern German region of Bitterfeld-Wolfen. The new facility is poised to produce 20,000 metric tons of battery-grade lithium hydroxide annually, which is estimated to meet the battery supply needs of approximately half a million electric vehicles. This refinery marks the first step, with plans to extend the site's capacity to 100,000 metric tons annually through an additional four modules. “With t...

The White House has selected Monroe Capital to launch a dedicated fund to help automotive suppliers in the US. The Drive Forward Fund will aim to raise up to $1 billion to invest in small and medium-sized companies that play a pivotal role in fueling growth and innovation in the US automotive industry. The Drive Forward Fund will target suppliers and manufacturers including those offering software as a service (SaaS) and other technological solutions catered to the automotive sector. Beyond i...

Lingyun Industrial, a mainland China-based supplier of automotive lightweight structural parts, has invested €55 million into its struggling German subsidiary, Waldaschaff Automotive, Yicai Global reported Sept. 12. This investment aims to reduce Waldaschaff's debt burden and operational challenges. The financial boost from Lingyun is intended for debt repayment at Waldaschaff, in hopes of bolstering confidence among the subsidiary's customers and suppliers. This move is also expected to he...

Posco International Corp. (Posco) has entered into a binding agreement to invest US$40 million in Black Rock Mining Ltd., a move that will be executed through two tranches. The first tranche involves a A$9.0 million investment in 155.3 million shares at a price of 5.8 Australian cents per share, which will elevate Posco's stake in Black Rock from 10.1% to 19.99%. The subsequent tranche will match the investment terms of other investors in the final equity raising for building Module 1 ...

LG Chem has opened a new customer solution (CS) center in Ravenna, Ohio, the US, to offer personalize support to its customers in North America, the South Korean supplier said in a press release on August 29. The center will offer technical solutions for product development, quality improvement and productivity enhancement for LG Chem’s customers and suppliers. “We believe our customers are at the core of our business,” said Shin Hak-Cheol, CEO of LG Chem. “We are committed to improvi...

Proton, a Malaysian national carmaker, has broken ground for its new stamping facilities — E and F-Line — at its Tanjong Malim, Malaysia, location. This move comes as part of a plan to transfer the production of the Proton Saga from Shah Alam, Malaysia, by 2026. An investment of RM253 million (about $54 million) is allocated for this expansion, catering to the anticipated increase in production volumes and the introduction of new models. This initiative follows the earlier expansio...

Novem has expanded its manufacturing plant in Querétaro, Mexico, Mexico Now reported July 22. The Germany-based company, which specializes in decorative trims for automotive interiors, reportedly invested “millions of US dollars” in the capacity expansion that has created 180 new jobs. The plant's expansion was showcased during a facility tour with the Head of the Ministry of Sustainable Development (SEDESU) of Querétaro Marco Antonio Del Prete Tercero, revealing its specialization...

Henkel India has successfully completed Phase III of capacity expansion at its Kurkumbh manufacturing facility, near Pune, in Maharashtra, India, Autocar Professional reported July 17. The facility, initiated in 2020, is dedicated to addressing the increasing demand for high-performance adhesive, sealant and surface treatment solutions from various industries in India. Specifically, the facility will cater to the needs of the manufacturing, maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), and automo...

Eramet has marked a significant advancement in its journey toward metals essential for the energy transition by inaugurating the Centenario Phase 1 lithium carbonate production plant in Argentina. The ceremony, witnessed by influential figures including Gustavo Saenz, the governor of Salta Region, Argentina; and various national and international representatives; signified the commencement of the plant's operations. This industrial venture is run by Eramine, a joint venture bet...

Ford Motor Co. is in advanced discussions about a $400 million investment to establish a component manufacturing facility in Kentucky, US, dedicated to supporting the production of electric vehicles. This development was shared by Ray Leathers, CEO of the Shelby County Industrial & Development Foundation, highlighting that the potential site is poised to support a unicast aluminum forming process crucial for EV manufacturing. Shelby County, Ky., where the facility would be located, is in ...

Minth has unveiled a major expansion plan in the Mexican city of Aguascalientes, which includes a $57 million investment that will create an additional 1,200 jobs to enhance the company's Metals division. Minth Mexico Public Relations and Administration Manager Manuel Ando Camacho indicated that this investment supplements a previously announced investment of $173.5 million and 1,600 jobs intended for the expansion of the company's plastics and battery box units. Furthermore, Ando h...

In a press release dated June 28, Shape Corp. announced that it has inaugurated its second facility in Tanner, Ala. This new location within Southpoint Industrial Park spans 202,306 square feet and is projected to generate over 100 new jobs within the next year. The new facility in Tanner specializes in producing lightweight aluminum and steel crash management and structural components for the automotive industry, incorporating technologies such as roll forming, aluminum and steel welding to ...

LyondellBasell has announced the inauguration of a new production line at its Dalian, mainland China, facility within the company's Advanced Polymer Solutions (APS) business segment. This addition, which represents the second production line at the Dalian site, aims to cater to the burgeoning demand in the automotive industry by producing a variety of high-performance polypropylene (PP) compounds. With an annual capacity of 20,000 metric tons, this expansion effectively doubles the site's pro...

Trinseo, a specialty material solutions provider, has inaugurated its new polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) depolymerization pilot facility in Rho, Italy, the company said in a press release on June 26. The new facility is a significant step in Trinseo’s commitment to sustainability and its goal to achieve circular infrastructure for acrylic solutions. “We are thrilled about the opening of our depolymerization facility, which will help advance our goal to support a circular economy,” said ...

On June 12 Ensinger announced an expansion of its production capabilities for thermoplastic composites with the addition of a new high-performance double belt press at its Rottenburg-Ergenzingen site in Germany. This investment is aimed at boosting the company's production capacity in its Composites division to meet the growing global demand for thermoplastic composites efficiently. The double belt press, manufactured by Austrian plant maker Berndorf Band Engineering, features a modular desig...

In a regulatory filing on BSE, Bharat Forge, a supplier of aluminum parts for the automotive parts, announced that it has invested $40 million in its fully owned subsidiary, Bharat Forge Aluminum USA Inc. (BFAL). The investment will be used as BFAL’s capital expenditure for aluminum forging facility. BFAL was incorporated in the State of North Carolina, USA on September 27, 2019, and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Bharat Forge America Inc. and therefore a wholly owned step-down subsidiary ...

In a press release dated June 3, Covestro announced that it has invested a mid-single-digit million-euro amount in Netherlands-based BioBTX. Through the investment, Covestro is facilitating the construction of the world's first demonstration plant for the BioBTX ICCP-Technology in the Netherlands. This technology allows for the production of chemicals such as benzene, toluene and xylene from organic and mixed plastic waste, which are key components in the chemical industry and are used...

Posco has broken ground on two new plants dedicated to nickel and precursor production in Pohang, North Gyeongsang Province, South Korea. According to a report by The Korea Herald on May 31, the nickel refining plant will process nickel matte supplied by CNGR to produce nickel with approximately 99.9% purity. The plant's annual production capacity is estimated to be 50,000 metric tons, sufficient for about 1.2 million electric vehicles. According to the report, a total of 1.5 trillion won (ab...

POSCO Group has completed the construction of a silicon anode material (SiOx) plant with an annual capacity of 550 tons at the Yeongil Bay Industrial Complex in Pohang, South Korea, the compnay announced in a press release May 20. The newly constructed facility is operated by POSCO Silicon Solution. The plant will focus on the downstream process of the SiOx production line, establishing a system that can swiftly respond to customers' needs for silicon anode materials. POSCO Silicon Solut...

India-based automotive supplier, Samvardhana Motherson International (SAMIL) has earmarked 20 billion Indian rupees ($599 million) as capital expenditure for the current financial year, an increase of 25% over the previous financial year, Autocar Professional reported June 1, citing a senior company official.  Of this total, the company will invest 20 billion rupees in setting up six new greenfield facilities across India, mainland China and Poland. "This is over and above the 12 that we...

Turkey-based Mata Automotive has opened a new plant in Aguascalientes in Mexico, according to a press release dated May 24. The company invested $30 million in the new plant, which will produce components for automakers operating vehicle assembly plants in the country. The investment will create 400 new jobs. “Through this plant, we are not just creating jobs or transferring technology; we are building bridges of mutual understanding and respect that transcend national borders. This is a cl...

Siete Leguas Automotive has invested in its second manufacturing plant in Mexico to produce aluminum automotive components, Mexico Now reported on May 23. The company invested $53.8 million in the new plant, located in Gómez Palacio, in the state of Durango. The investment will create 300 new jobs. Founded in 2018, Siete Leguas Automotive is owned by Grupo Siete Leguas (GSL), a major manufacturer and exporter of garments in Mexico. Although Siete Leguas Automotive is relatively new, the comp...

PPG will invest $300 million in a new manufacturing plant in the US to support the growing demand of automotive paints and coatings, the company said in a press release May 21. The company will establish the new plant in Loudon County, Tenn. Construction of the 250,000 square-foot plant will commence in August and is expected to be complete in 2026. Once fully operational, the plant will produce more than 11 million gallon of paints and coatings annually. Initially, the plant will produce pai...

BASF's coatings division has announced the expansion of its e-coat manufacturing facility at its Mangalore, India site, in response to the growing demand from automotive manufacturers in India and Southeast Asia. With this expansion, BASF will be able to manufacture the latest generation of e-coat products, including CathoGuard 800 RE, which offers improved efficiency and reactivity for electric vehicles. E-coat, also known as electrophoretic or cathodic dip coating, is used to protect car ...

South Korean companies LG Energy Solution (LGES) and Pocso plan to cut down their battery investments to steer through the decelerating global demand for electric vehicles, according to a news report published by The Korea Times on April 26. The report cited statements by both the companies. The report said that LGES plans to lower its capital expenditure in 2024 in order to improve profitability. The move comes after South Korea’s largest battery-maker announced a 75% year-over-year dec...

Martinrea International has announced that it led a financing round for Equispheres Inc., acquiring convertible preferred shares worth $6 million, in a press release dated April 23. This is the second investment the company has made in Equispheres, following a C$1 million investment in April 2023. Equispheres' technology helps lower the cost of additive manufacturing in automotive to the point where the production of 3D printed automotive components at scale is possible. “Equispheres is ...

Uno Minda has announced the groundbreaking ceremony for its upcoming greenfield passenger vehicle alloy wheel plant at IMT Kharkhoda in Haryana state, India, Business Standard reported on April 10. The plant will have a capacity to produce 120,000 wheels per month. The company has announced a capital outlay of 5.42 billion rupees (about $65 million) to set up the plant in a phased manner over the next five years. Phase 1 is expected to be commissioned in the second quarter of fiscal year 2026. ...

Nexeon has broken ground on its first commercial-scale production facility in Gunsan, South Korea, it said in a press release dated April 3. The plant is expected to begin delivering silicon anode material starting in 2025, fulfilling a previously announced binding supply agreement with Panasonic. The site is situated adjacent to chemical company OCI's facilities, which enables a fenceline supply of silane, a critical raw material, and ensures capital efficient scaling for both companies...

Covestro has unveiled its first plant for polycarbonate copolymers that can produce high-quality plastics on an industrial scale at its Antwerp site in Belgium, according to a company press release dated March 27. The new production process enables the company to offer a broad portfolio of material innovations. The new proprietary platform technology is based on a solvent-free melt process in combination with a new reactor concept. These polycarbonates with adjustable properties have bee...

Hinduja Tech Ltd. (HT), a mobility-focused global engineering research and development services company and a subsidiary of Ashok Leyland, has announced the signing of a definitive agreement for private equity firm Creador to invest $50 million, subject to the completion of customary closing conditions. Creador will acquire 19.6% shareholding in the company, HT said in a press release on March 14. The company said this fresh capital infusion will allow it to augment its existing capabilities ...

Lohum, a battery recycling and repurposing firm, has raised $54 million in Series B funding from various venture firms, including Singularity Growth, Baring Private Equity, Cactus Venture Partners and Venture East, Autocar reported March 13. The funds will be used to accelerate the company's international expansion, hire top professionals from India and expand its operations in North America, the EU, the Middle East, Africa and Asia. "The funds will expedite our international expansion, ...

Japanese steelmaker Nippon Steel announced an investment of $71.3 million to set a new plant to produce automotive steel components. The plant is located in the municipality of Apaseo El Grande, Mexico, at proximity to Japanese automaker Toyota's assembly plant. It is likely to create 200 new direct jobs. According to Directorio Automotriz, the new plant will produce 120,000 metric tons of automotive steel sheets per year for electric vehicles in four production lines. Nippon Steel already...

India’s major automotive supplier, Brakes India, announced an investment of $70 million in Mexico. The investment is expected to create 700 jobs, thanks to the construction of a new smelting plant in the state, Mexico Now reported March 4. Brakes India Managing Director Sriram Viji highlighted that the company is a leading figure in the production of braking systems and the casting of iron components for vehicles. He further explained that the project will be developed in two phases, estima...

Posco International, a subsidiary of Posco, has announced global expansion of its Motor Core business through the construction of new plants in Poland and Mexico. The company's new president, Lee Kye-in, has approved the expansion plan, which includes the establishment of a global production cluster for motor cores in five countries. The Polish plant, located in the city of Brzeg in southwestern Poland, will serve as a bridgehead for the Motor Core business in Europe and will be built on a 10...

Leading paints and performance coatings maker AkzoNobel announced the complication of a major capacity expansion at its Powder Coatings site in Como, Italy, which the company says will help secure supply to customers across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA). The company in a Feb.13 press release said a total of four new manufacturing lines are now operational following the €21 million project – two of them dedicated to automotive primers and two to architectural coatings. New bon...

Spanish automotive metal supplier Gestamp has announced that it is planning to construct a new facility near the General Motors Orion plant in Michigan, US. The proposed plant will be spread across a 460,000-square-foot area in Macomb County, Mich. This facility would employ 390 workers and feed material directly to the GM Orion plant, GM Authority reported Feb. 6, quoting a report from Crain’s Detroit Business.  Once completed, the facility will feature up to 450,000 square feet of ma...