Approximately 25 years after BMW first announced its decision to establish a Spartanburg County manufacturing plant, South Carolina has evolved into an automotive powerhouse. Leading the nation in the export sales of completed passenger vehicles, the Palmetto State is now home to approximately 400 automotive-related firms. Among them are industry titans Mercedes-Benz Vans and Volvo Cars, which both announced new manufacturing operations in South Carolina in 2015 -- effectively creating a trio of premium automobile manufacturers which is second to none.
To showcase South Carolina’s pro-business environment and build relationships with some of the top names in the global automotive industry, S.C. Commerce is currently leading a delegation in Frankfurt, Germany, where the 67th International Motor Show (IAA) is taking place. With exhibitors from more than 40 countries, IAA provides a unique opportunity to witness presentations on the latest innovations and technological advances within the industry.
While there, Team South Carolina is meeting with representatives from many global companies, including some which already operate within our borders, such as Schaeffler Group, Bosch Group, Continental Tire, Magna International and more. As these relationships are strengthened, so will the state’s automotive sector.
Reflecting on the last 25 years, it’s clear that South Carolina’s auto industry has served as a game-changer for the state’s economy. Moving forward, the continued growth of this sector will further fuel economic prosperity across South Carolina for years to come.