Park Jae-hyuk is a seasoned journalist who has provided comprehensive coverage of South Korea's corporate dynamics, economic policies, industry challenges and the global positioning of Korean companies. Based on the articles he has written since joining The Korea Times in 2016, his investigative approach has helped readers understand corporate governance, economic trends and business strategies shaping South Korea’s economy.
LG Energy Solution's Arizona plant to meet demand for US-made batteries
LG Energy Solution's (LGES) cylindrical battery plant is under construction in Arizona in this undated handout photo. Courtesy of LGES
By Park Jae-hyuk
Battery firm says facility is halfway complete
LG Energy Solution (LGES) has shared the latest updates on the ongoing construction of its cylindrical battery plant in Arizona, highlighting its readiness to meet the growing demand for American-made batteries stemming from U.S. President Donald Trump's tariff policies.
The Korean battery maker said Sunday that its Arizona subsidiary informed major local stakeholders that the facility's construction has reached the halfway point.
During the opening ceremony of the company's new workforce training center, LGES Arizona President Richard Ra told attendees that the upcoming factory aims to begin sample production by mid-2026, with full commercial production slated for the end of the year.
The company also stressed that the facility is well-positioned to meet increasing demand from U.S. carmakers for batteries made in the U.S.
According to LGES, global carmakers have already signed a series of contracts to source the Korean firm's 46-series cylindrical batteries from its first cylindrical battery plant in the United States.
"Our Arizona facility is now preparing for a successful completion, stepping up our commitment to localizing operations and charging the future of electrification hand in hand with our partners and employees," Ra said.
Aiming to create 1,500 new jobs in Arizona by 2027, LGES has also launched training for the initial team at its new workforce training center, which is supported by Arizona's Future48 Workforce Accelerator program.
"We actively support the development of regional talent through high-quality training programs, empowering them to become future battery professionals who will contribute to U.S. electrification with our innovative power solutions," Ra said.