BUFFALO, W.Va. (AP) — Carmaker Toyota is planning a $64 million investment in its Buffalo, W.V., plant to expand production of six-speed automatic transmissions.
Toyota representatives, along with state and federal officials announced the expansion Friday. The expansion will create 40 jobs.
U.S. Sen. Jay Rockefeller said the expansion will benefit suppliers, future employees and local economies.
"Toyota has a long legacy in West Virginia, and I greatly appreciate all of its efforts and trust in our state and its workers. I hope this facility will continue to develop and expand for many years to come." said Rockefeller, D-W.Va.
Toyota Motor Manufacturing West Virginia's 2-million-square-foot Buffalo site currently employs 1,100 people, and produces parts for several Toyota and Lexus brand vehicles.
"West Virginia has the good fortune to have innovative, forward thinkers at TMMWV and when you combine that with our state's dedicated, educated workforce, you have a winning combination" acting Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin said.