Kia Georgia began production of the 2027 Kia Telluride at its West Point facility on Feb. 24, 2026. The ceremonial vehicle represented three milestones at once: the new-generation Telluride launch, the first hybrid electric vehicle assembled in the state of Georgia, and the plant’s 5 millionth vehicle. Georgia Governor Brian P. Kemp joined team members and state leaders for the event.
Highlights
- Kia Georgia started production of the 2027 Telluride, marking the plant’s first HEV and 5 millionth vehicle built since 2009.
- The Telluride HEV is the first hybrid electric vehicle assembled in Georgia and the first U.S.-assembled HEV for Kia.
- The West Point plant has an annual capacity of 350,000 units and also builds the Sorento, Sportage, EV9, and EV6.
- Governor Brian Kemp attended the ceremony, calling the Telluride one of Kia’s most successful vehicles since its 2019 introduction.
Three Milestones in a Single Vehicle
The 2027 Telluride that rolled off the line represented a convergence of achievements for Kia Georgia. It simultaneously marked the start of production for the next-generation Telluride, the introduction of hybrid electric manufacturing in Georgia, and a cumulative production record.
Sean Yoon, President and CEO of Kia North America and Kia America, said the milestone reflects the strength of the West Point team and Kia’s commitment to building the future of mobility in Georgia. He noted that reaching five million vehicles while introducing Kia’s first U.S.-assembled HEV is a testament to the brand’s history and forward direction.
Georgia’s First Hybrid Electric Vehicle
The HEV designation carries particular significance. Georgia has attracted substantial automotive manufacturing investment in recent years, yet no facility in the state had previously assembled a hybrid electric vehicle. The Telluride HEV now fills that gap.
West Point’s facility already produces a mix of powertrains. In addition to the Telluride, the plant assembles gasoline-powered Sorento and Sportage models (excluding HEV and PHEV variants) alongside the all-electric EV9 and EV6. The addition of HEV capability broadens the plant’s powertrain versatility further.
5 Million Vehicles Since 2009
Kia Georgia has grown into one of the Southeast’s largest employers since it began mass production on Nov. 16, 2009. The facility sits on 2,200 acres and serves as Kia Corporation’s first North American manufacturing site.
Stuart Countess, Kia Georgia’s President and CEO, credited the workforce for the milestone. He stated that five million vehicles are the result of teamwork and that the ability to produce gasoline, electric, and now hybrid models demonstrates the versatility and talent within the plant.
State and Industry Significance
Governor Kemp emphasized the long-standing partnership between Kia Georgia, the local community, and the state. He described the Telluride as one of Kia’s most successful vehicles since its exclusive Georgia-made introduction in 2019.
The Telluride has earned recognition as one of the most awarded vehicles in the industry. As the only plant in the world that builds the model, West Point’s role in Kia’s global manufacturing strategy remains central to the brand’s growth plans.
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