Toyota has begun production of the all-new RAV4 Hybrid at its Georgetown, Kentucky manufacturing plant, supported by approximately $2 billion in investments announced over the past two years.
The automaker also broke ground on a new paint facility at the site, which is expected to reduce carbon emissions and water consumption as part of the company’s broader sustainability initiatives.
RAV4 Hybrid Added to Production Lineup
The start of RAV4 Hybrid assembly marks the latest expansion of Toyota’s electrified vehicle production in the United States.
The Georgetown facility, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, will also begin production of the Highlander Battery Electric Vehicle in September 2026, further broadening its electrified vehicle portfolio.
Toyota said the addition of the RAV4 Hybrid supports growing consumer demand for electrified vehicles while aligning with the company’s multi-pathway approach to vehicle electrification.
“Making our customers smile by delivering high-quality vehicles like the all-new RAV4 Hybrid has been our legacy for 40 years,” said Kerry Creech, President of Toyota Kentucky.
“The milestones we celebrate today reflect our team’s commitment to sustainability and our unwavering promise to continue to deliver vehicles our customers love.”
New Paint Facility Targets Lower Environmental Impact
Toyota also commenced construction of a new paint facility at the Georgetown plant.
According to the company, the facility is designed to improve manufacturing efficiency while reducing environmental impacts.
The automaker estimates the project will lower carbon emissions by approximately 30% and reduce annual water consumption by about 1.5 million gallons.
Workforce Development Support
Alongside its manufacturing investments, Toyota announced a $500,000 grant to Bluegrass Community and Technical College (BCTC) to support the development of a regional workforce training center.
The facility is intended to provide hands-on training opportunities for students and existing workers in advanced manufacturing skills.
“Toyota’s investment reflects a deep commitment to our community and its future,” said Dr. Greg Feeney, Chancellor and CEO of BCTC.
“The regional workforce training center is critical for preparing Central Kentucky’s workforce for today’s advanced manufacturing environment and the evolving challenges of the future. Through customized skills training we are creating more opportunities for career growth and strengthening the workforce that powers our region.”
Four Decades of Production
Toyota said the Georgetown facility has received more than $12 billion in cumulative investment since operations began and has produced approximately 15 million vehicles.
The plant currently employs nearly 10,000 workers and remains one of Toyota’s largest manufacturing operations in North America.
The company noted that four additional Toyota manufacturing facilities in the United States are also celebrating major anniversaries during 2026.
