Nashville, TN – March 16, 2026

Hyundai Translead announced today plans to expand its operations into the U.S. with two advanced manufacturing facilities in Will County, Illinois. This strategic investment will increase the company’s annual capacity and create approximately 2,500 full-time jobs. 

Aligned with Hyundai’s commitment to U.S. investment and job creation, the expansion reflects a deliberate, long term strategy focused on sustainable growth, operational efficiency, and proximity to customers. 

The new production sites will enhance logistics capabilities and product delivery by reducing landed costs, lead times, and leveraging a growing dealer network. They will enable future product line diversification, reinforcing Hyundai Translead’s commitment to delivering innovative, customer-focused transportation solutions. 

Backed by an initial investment of over $450 million, the two sites will extend across 52 acres along the Des Plaines River – one formerly home to Caterpillar’s heavy equipment operations, and the other located at the previous Lion Electric operation site. This development is planned with partnerships to drive local economic impact, strengthen supplier access, and support broader market growth throughout North America. Both locations offer capacity for future expansion, supporting Hyundai Translead’s core operations and additional product lines to fulfill evolving market needs. 

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

“Hyundai Translead’s transformational investment reflects the strengths that have made Illinois a global center for advanced manufacturing and logistics,” said 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.” 

The announcement reflects a shared vision and commitment to economic advancement between Hyundai Translead, the state of Illinois, and local leadership. Collaboration with city and state officials has been instrumental in bringing this transformative project to life. 

“Our position as the leading trailer manufacturer is the result of steady progress, continuous investment, and an unwavering commitment to customer needs,” said 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

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.”

For further information:

marketing@hyundaitranslead.com

About Hyundai Translead

Founded in 1989, Hyundai Translead is the leading van trailer manufacturer in North America,  producing dry and refrigerated van trailers, flatbeds, truck bodies, and dollies. Headquartered in  San Diego, CA, and wholly owned by Hyundai Motor Company, the company leverages advanced  engineering and manufacturing to deliver customer-focused transportation solutions. In addition to  its manufacturing leadership, Hyundai Translead is also the exclusive distributor of Hyundai’s  XCIENT Fuel Cell trucks in North America, a sustainable solution designed to expand fleet options  towards zero-tailpipe emission logistics.

For more information, visit www.hyundaitranslead.com.