BELLEVUE, Ohio (Mar. 24, 2026) — Automotive supplier Autokiniton will invest $313 million to expand its manufacturing facility in Bellevue, strengthening Northwest Ohio’s position as a key hub in the North American automotive supply chain.
The expansion project, announced in partnership with the Sandusky County Economic Development Corporation (SCEDC), will add approximately 215,000 square feet of production space and introduce advanced assembly lines, upgraded tooling and state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment. Rail access improvements and infrastructure enhancements are also planned. Construction is expected to begin immediately, with completion targeted within 18 months.
The investment will create 97 new jobs while retaining roughly 440 existing positions at the Bellevue plant, supporting continued growth in high-value automotive manufacturing.
Autokiniton leadership attributed the expansion to the region’s workforce strength and collaborative economic development environment. Company officials emphasized that Bellevue’s skilled labor pool, established transportation networks, proximity to major customers and supportive local partnerships were key factors in the site’s selection.
The Bellevue facility plays an important role in Autokiniton’s production network, supplying performance-critical components and assemblies for leading global automakers. The expansion is expected to significantly increase production capacity, enabling the company to support both traditional vehicle programs and emerging next-generation mobility technologies.
Public-private collaboration was instrumental in advancing the project. Support included financing assistance through the Erie County Port Authority’s Capital Lease program, workforce development coordination by regional partners and a tax credit from the Ohio Department of Development facilitated by JobsOhio and the Regional Growth Partnership.
Economic development leaders noted the project will generate immediate construction activity while creating long-term career opportunities for local residents. Beyond job creation, the investment is expected to strengthen regional supply chains, enhance manufacturing competitiveness and position Sandusky County to attract additional advanced industrial investment.
SCEDC officials said they will continue working with workforce training providers and community partners to ensure local talent pipelines support the facility’s future growth and operational needs.
