Global auto products manufacturer announces $48M expansion in Piedmont

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A global engineering and manufacturing automotive systems company is expanding its manufacturing operations in Greenville County.

JTEKT North America’s $48.4 million investment will create 87 new jobs, according to a South Carolina Department of Commerce news release.

By adding seven new machining lines, two new assembly lines and additional processes to machine components internally, JTEKT will have the capability to produce front drive shafts at its existing facility located at 1866 Old Grove Road in Piedmont.

“Our latest investment in South Carolina is another made with absolute confidence,” said JTEKT Americas President and CEO Gary Bourque. “Confidence in the capability of our current associates, our future associates, and confidence in Leadership of the state of South Carolina as we continue delivering next generation solutions to our customers and the world’s most trusted brands.”

Part of JTEKT Corp., JTEKT North America manufactures a broad range of products under the brands JTEKT Automotive Systems, Koyo Bearings and Toyoda Machine Tools. In addition to its regional headquarters in Greenville, the company has 12 manufacturing sites, three technical centers, and five distribution centers throughout North America, the release said.

“JTEKT North America is one of the many companies contributing to South Carolina’s reputation as an automotive powerhouse,” said South Carolina Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III. “This expansion and investment will help advance our state’s manufacturing potential by providing automakers with additional products built within our borders.”

Operations will be online in the third quarter of 2025.

“South Carolina’s exceptional workforce continues to allow manufacturing companies like JTEKT North America to thrive,” said South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster. “We look forward to this expansion’s impact on Greenville County.”