S.C. leading the way in EV transformation

A revolution in the automotive industry is underway, and South Carolina is helping lead the charge. Already known as an automotive powerhouse that boasts some of the world’s biggest names, South Carolina is now a major driver in the electric vehicle (EV) shift – with a growing roster of automotive companies making commitments to build next-generation vehicles in the state. October was a particularly exciting month for South Carolina on the EV front.

Last month, South Carolina made international EV news when BMW announced a $1.7 billion expansion at Plant Spartanburg to prepare for the production of electric vehicles and to build a new high-voltage battery assembly facility in Woodruff. Also last month, Bosch announced the launch of electric motor production at its Dorchester County operation — a $206 million investment creating 350 new jobs.

South Carolina has gained such a stellar reputation on the international automotive front that Secretary Lightsey was one of the featured opening speakers at the Daegu International Future Auto & Mobility Expo in Korea at the end of October. The event is one of Asia’s premier automotive tradeshows that highlights the latest in EV, AI, autonomous driving and more.

Also, last month, Governor McMaster held an EV summit, bringing together manufacturers, educators and economic developers to focus on furthering EV development in South Carolina. Governor McMaster also issued an executive order establishing S.C. Commerce as the primary point of contact for electric vehicle companies interested in investing in South Carolina and for a coordinated effort among agencies on the state’s electric vehicle infrastructure roll-out.

The automotive industry is undergoing a transformation unseen in 100 years, and South Carolina is at the epicenter of this change. And to remain competitive and ensure the state’s sustainable advantage, S.C. Commerce will continue to collaborate with industry, partners and allies to lead the EV revolution.