Hitachi Automotive Products (USA) Inc. is investing more than $20.2 million to expand its Harrodsburg operation, adding a new advanced fuel system production line to the plant. Company officials say the expansion will add around 100 new jobs.
Hitachi manufactures electromechanical automotive parts that are sold to most of the world’s major automotive manufacturing companies. The company began operations in Harrodsburg in 1986, starting with around 75 employees operating out of a 40,000-s.f. plant. Over the years, the facility has grown to more than 400,0000 s.f. and has employed as many as 600.
The plant’s new production line will permit Hitachi to manufacture, assemble and distribute high-pressure fuel pumps for use in the automotive industry’s advanced direct-injection fuel systems. The use of direct-injection fuel systems in next-generation automobile engines improves fuel economy and reduces emissions. Hitachi presently produces similar high-pressure fuel pumps in Hitachi factories in Germany and Japan.
Hitachi is also in the process of considering where it will locate its manufacturing line for hybrid electric products, which could lead to new opportunities for the Harrodsburg operation.
The Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority has given preliminary approval to Hitachi for tax benefits of up to $2,881,450 under the Kentucky Business Investment Program. The company has also been approved for up to $35,257 under the Kentucky Enterprise Initiative Act, which allows approved companies to receive a sales and use tax refund on building and construction materials.
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