Automotive & EV Driving the future of automotive production in South Carolina
South Carolina has become one of the nation’s leading automotive and electric vehicle manufacturing hubs, with global automakers, suppliers and mobility companies operating across the state.
Where automotive manufacturing evolves, scales and moves forward
What began with BMW’s arrival in 1992 has evolved into a highly connected automotive ecosystem spanning passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, advanced materials, EV technologies and next-generation manufacturing. Today, more than 600 automotive-related companies operate in South Carolina, supporting one of the fastest-growing automotive sectors in the country.
The industry supports more than 154,900 jobs statewide and has generated more than $13 billion in announced capital investment since 2016, reinforcing South Carolina’s role as a major force in modern automotive manufacturing.
South Carolina is also the nation’s leader in passenger vehicle exports, ranking #1 in US export sales of passenger vehicles in both 2024 and 2025. Global OEMs including BMW, Volvo Cars, Scout Motors, Mercedes-Benz Vans, Oshkosh Defense and Isuzu continue to expand South Carolina’s leadership in mobility, electrification and advanced vehicle production.
Automotive is driving growth in South Carolina
Download the automotive industry snapshot
Global automotive brands are accelerating in South Carolina
The future of mobility is taking shape in SC
South Carolina’s automotive industry continues to evolve through advanced battery production and next-generation vehicle manufacturing.
Building on decades of automotive manufacturing strength, the state is attracting companies investing in electric vehicles, battery technology and the infrastructure supporting the future of mobility. From EV assembly and battery production to recycling and advanced materials, South Carolina’s growing ecosystem supports every stage of the evolving automotive supply chain.
Global companies including Scout Motors, Volvo Cars and AESC are helping expand South Carolina’s role in electrification and advanced vehicle production, reinforcing the state’s position as a leader in modern automotive manufacturing.
With a business-friendly operating environment, established supplier network and nationally recognized manufacturing expertise, South Carolina continues to support the growth of next-generation mobility technologies.
Infrastructure built to support the automotive industry at scale
South Carolina’s automotive industry is supported by a highly connected manufacturing and supplier ecosystem built for long-term growth, production and innovation. South Carolina also continues to expand infrastructure supporting electrification and advanced vehicle manufacturing as the automotive industry evolves.
Built for faster growth
With more than 600 automotive-related companies operating across the state, manufacturers benefit from established supply chains, strategic logistics infrastructure and a business-friendly operating environment designed to support both traditional automotive production and next-generation mobility technologies.
Global market access
The state’s deepwater port, rail access and interstate connectivity allow companies to efficiently move vehicles, components and materials across domestic and international markets.
Innovation ecosystem
In addition, Clemson University International Center for Automotive Research helps strengthen the state’s automotive innovation ecosystem through nationally recognized automotive engineering and research programs.
An automotive workforce built to support advanced manufacturing, electrification and next-generation mobility technologies
From vehicle assembly and supplier operations to battery production, automation and engineering, companies benefit from a talent pipeline shaped by technical colleges, research institutions and industry partnerships across the state.
Sites ready for automotive growth
From certified industrial parks to shovel-ready properties, South Carolina offers site options across regions and communities statewide. Explore available properties using our interactive map, with filters for size, infrastructure and incentives.
A business environment designed to support long-term automotive investment, production and innovation
Performance-based incentives reward companies for job creation and capital investment, helping automotive manufacturers, suppliers and mobility companies launch, expand and scale operations efficiently. Combined with a competitive tax structure and pro-business operating environment, the state supports continued growth across vehicle manufacturing, electrification and advanced mobility technologies.
These advantages help automotive companies operate efficiently and compete globally from South Carolina.
- No state property tax
- No inventory tax or wholesale tax
- No sales tax on manufacturing machinery, industrial power or materials used in finished products
- No unitary tax on worldwide profits
- A competitive corporate income tax structure with no local income tax
Job tax credit
A statutory tax credit available to qualifying new and expanding companies that create and maintain net new full-time jobs in South Carolina. Credit value varies based on the number of jobs created and the county where they are located.
5-year property tax abatement
Qualifying manufacturers, research and development facilities, distribution facilities and corporate headquarters operations may receive a five-year exemption from county operating property taxes on eligible investments.
Manufacturing machinery & equipment sales tax exemption
State and local sales and use tax exemptions are available for companies that purchase machinery, equipment or parts used to produce tangible goods.
Built here. Grown here. Thriving here.
BMW chose South Carolina to build one of the world’s most advanced manufacturing plants. This was genius — finally, people got to work in the place they love.
Dr. Robert Engelhorn, President & CEO, BMW Manufacturing
Get a glimpse of the partnership between Scout Motors and SC that transformed the Midlands region with not only industry and 4,000+ jobs, but protected acreage next to the Congaree National Park.
This is ZF’s first step to ensure ZF Gray Court remains a critical part of our major e-mobility transformation in North America and globally. Having the capability to produce the propulsion systems of today, and e-mobility products of tomorrow, under one US roof and in South Carolina, is critical to serving our customers globally.
Tobias Brugger, Gray Court Vice President & Plant Manager
ZF Transmissions
SODECIA AAPICO Joint Venture selects Orangeburg County to establish its first South Carolina operation
$120 million investment will create up to 392 new jobs
ElringKlinger expands Pickens County operations
$68.5 million investment will create 294 new jobsZF Chassis Systems Duncan expands Spartanburg County operations
$55.4 million investment will create 30 new jobsInterested in automotive in South Carolina?
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