Toyota Indiana will assemble the new Scion by Toyota KEI-01 compact utility truck, with U.S. availability planned for the second half of 2027
PRINCETON, Ind. — Toyota Motor North America will invest $34 million and create approximately 50 new jobs as it expands manufacturing operations at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana in Princeton.
The investment will establish new vehicle assembly operations and upgrade production and logistics infrastructure to support the KEI-01, an ultra-compact utility truck introduced under the company’s new Scion by Toyota brand.
Princeton Plant to Assemble Compact Utility Truck
The KEI-01 is scheduled to reach U.S. customers in the second half of 2027. Drawing on the functionality and efficiency of Japan’s kei trucks, the vehicle is designed to offer utility and durability in a smaller, more affordable package than a traditional pickup.
Toyota’s Princeton investment will prepare the facility to assemble the vehicle while strengthening the company’s manufacturing presence in Southwest Indiana.
“Toyota’s continued investment in Indiana is a testament to the strength of our manufacturing sector and the skill of our Hoosier workforce,” said Gov. Mike Braun. “Today’s announcement will put Indiana at the center of building the vehicles of tomorrow, bolstering our reputation as a leading global destination for automotive innovation and production.”
Scion by Toyota Explores New Mobility Options
Toyota introduced Scion by Toyota as a platform for exploring new approaches to vehicle design and personal mobility. Alongside the KEI-01, the announcement highlighted SxS and BKE concepts.
“The future of mobility will not be defined by one vehicle, one technology or one way of thinking,” said Simon Humphries, chief branding officer and head of design at Toyota Motor Corporation. “Scion by Toyota gives us a place to challenge conventional thinking, explore new possibilities and create mobility in new ways.”
The KEI-01 targets buyers seeking practical utility without the dimensions or expense of a conventional pickup truck.
Investment Builds on Toyota’s Southwest Indiana Presence
Toyota has invested more than $8.2 billion in its Princeton facility, which employs nearly 8,000 associates and assembles three Toyota models and one Lexus model.
Beyond manufacturing, Toyota Indiana has supported regional community development through Indiana’s Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative, known as READI. Its involvement includes advancing the Toyota Indiana YMCA in Princeton.
The company has also contributed more than $55 million in community grants supporting local needs and opportunities for future generations.
Expansion Supports Indiana’s Automotive Manufacturing Sector
Indiana’s automotive industry includes five major original equipment manufacturer assembly plants and approximately 500 automotive parts suppliers, producing about 1.3 million cars and trucks annually.
Indiana Secretary of Commerce Chuck Goodrich said Toyota’s latest commitment reinforces the state’s role in developing and manufacturing vehicles, components and power systems for domestic and international markets.
The announcement follows September’s joint meeting of the Midwest-U.S. Japan Association and Japan-Midwest Association in Indianapolis, as well as Goodrich’s October economic development trip to Japan.
Toyota is among nearly 300 Japanese business facilities in Indiana, which collectively support nearly 62,000 jobs statewide.
