Volvo to build first U.S. factory in South Carolina

MONCKS CORNER, S.C., May 11 (UPI) -- Volvo Cars said it plans to spend up to $500 million to build its first U.S. factory in Berekely County, S.C.

The facility, to be located outside of Charleston, S.C., is expected to have the capacity to produce up to 100,000 vehicles per year. It will produce Volvos for both sales in the United States and for export.

The company said it plans to begin construction on the facility in early autumn 2015 and the first vehicles are expected to roll of the assembly line in 2018.

"We're excited to build our first American factory in South Carolina and we look forward to helping grow the local community and economy." said Lex Kerssemakers, president and CEO of Volvo Cars of North America, "We were impressed with the friendliness, work ethic and passion of the people in the Charleston area." 

Volvo said it chose the Charleston area because of its easy access to international ports and a well-trained labor force. The company expects to employ up to 2,000 people over the next decade and up to 4,000 people in the longer term.

"This is a landmark moment and truly a great day in South Carolina as we welcome Volvo Cars' first American manufacturing plant to our state," said Nikki Haley, Governor of South Carolina, "Volvo's presence and commitment to the community will be felt for decades to come. We are proud to have this global leader in car manufacturing join and strengthen South Carolina's automotive industry."