Hyundai Rotem, the train manufacturing subsidiary of Korea’s Hyundai Motor Group, said Friday it has opened its first U.S.-based rail parts plant in California to strengthen its foothold in the North American rail market.
The new facility in the city of Riverside, named Hyundai Rotem Smart Electric America (HRSEA), spans about 8,500 square meters and will produce key components for rail vehicles, including propulsion control units, traction motors and auxiliary power supplies.
A completion ceremony for the plant was held Thursday (local time), attended by officials from the Los Angeles Metro, the Riverside city government and the Korean Consulate General in Los Angeles, as well as executives from Hyundai Rotem and partner firms.
In addition to production and testing, the plant will also provide customer services for clients and support follow-up projects related to new parts development.
“We look forward to contributing to local job creation and economic growth while moving forward with the Riverside community,” said Lee Yong-bae, chief executive officer (CEO) of Hyundai Rotem.
Hyundai Rotem said the facility will ensure a faster and more stable supply chain by producing parts locally with other Korean partners, giving the company an edge in upcoming U.S. rail projects.
With major infrastructure demand expected around the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and Paralympics, the company said it plans to leverage HRSEA as a strategic hub to expand its North American network.
