Honda of South Carolina Mfg. Inc. (HSC) has announced that it will add production of Honda’s next generation of side-by-side (multi-utility vehicle) products in mid-2013 at its Florence County plant. The $27 million investment is expected to generate more than 65 new jobs.
“Adding the new side-by-side production demonstrates the confidence Honda top management has in our associates and their capabilities to produce these new vehicles,” said HSC Plant Manager Scott McKenzie.
Honda side-by-side production will transfer from Honda de Mexico S.A. de C.V. (HDM) to HSC. Based on the potential for increased production and future expansion at HSC, along with plans to expand the side-by-side dealer network throughout the U.S. in 2013, the company determined that HSC was the right location. Following the move of side-by-side production, HDM will increase capacity for the production of additional two-wheel products to meet growing market demand in Mexico.
“We are excited that Honda has chosen to invest $27 million and create more than 65 new jobs in Timmonsville. When a world-class company like Honda increases its footprint here, it shows that South Carolina is the right place to do business,” said Gov. Nikki Haley.
Since January 2011, South Carolina has recruited more than $7 billion in capital investment and more than 18,000 jobs in the manufacturing sector.
“We’re very fortunate to have another flagship industry decide to expand here,” said state Sen. Hugh K. Leatherman Sr. “It is evident that Florence County continues to be a competitive and desirable location for manufacturers.”
Florence County Economic Development Partnership Chairman Dr. Charles Gould said, “Honda’s presence in Florence County has been and will remain incredibly significant. They have been one of our largest employers for quite some time and the epitome of an outstanding corporate citizen.”
As with other Honda plants in North America, the Timmonsville plant has undergone continuous innovation over the years to maintain flexibility and efficiency. In the second half of 2013, HSC will be ready to begin production for a new generation of Honda side-by-side.
“The Timmonsville plant has established a strong foundation in South Carolina by continually improving our plant operations in order to exceed the expectations of our customers,” said Brian Newman, president of Honda South Carolina. “The addition of this new product will allow the Timmonsville plant to grow its commitment to the great state of South Carolina by investing in new expansion, tooling and new jobs for this area. Production of the side-by-side also will benefit the region by increasing the volume and range of parts purchasing from domestic suppliers.”
Honda South Carolina Mfg. employs more than 850 associates. The plant began production of the four-wheeled Honda FourTrax ATV model line in 1998. In fall 2000, operations expanded to add engine production to the plant. The Timmonsville plant’s production line has the capacity to manufacture a quarter of million vehicles and310,000 engines per year.
