Honda's $1B Marysville Overhaul Ushers in EV Era for Ohio

MARYSVILLE, Ohio — Honda Motor Co. announced a $1 billion investment to retool its three key Ohio manufacturing plants — Marysville Auto Plant, East Liberty Auto Plant and Anna Engine Plant — transforming them into the 'Honda EV Hub.' The flexible lines will produce internal combustion engine, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles interchangeably, allowing rapid response to market shifts, company executives said. Initially pegged at $700 million in 2022, the commitment has grown to over $1 billion, with production of the first EV, the all-new Acura RSX SUV, slated for late 2025, followed by Honda 0 Series saloon and SUV models unveiled at CES 2025.[1][2][3] Mike Fischer, executive chief engineer and Honda EV Hub lead, called the project a foundational shift for North American operations. 'This is creating an approach to EV production that will serve as the foundation for Honda operations throughout North America and globally,' Fischer stated. The initiative adds about 300 new associates for battery case manufacturing and assembly, bolstering Union County's economy where Honda has been a fixture since opening the Marysville plant in 1982.[2][4] Complementing the hub is a $3.5 billion joint venture with LG Energy Solution for a lithium-ion battery plant in Fayette County's Jeffersonville, creating 2,200 jobs with output starting late 2025. Jennifer Thomas, senior vice president of Honda's U.S. unit, emphasized the lines' adaptability: 'It will enable us to quickly respond to changes in customer demand and market conditions.' Sustainability features include Honda's 'Thin, Light, and Wise' platform and steps toward carbon neutrality via recycling enhancements.[1][2][3] Three years in development, the EV Hub aligns with Honda's 2040 goal of 100% zero-emission sales and incorporates ASIMO OS technology in new models. For Marysville, a city of 24,000 where Honda employs thousands, the expansion reinforces its role as Ohio's auto manufacturing heartland amid the industry's electrification push.[1][3]