Hyundai is increasing its commitment to U.S. manufacturing, with Chairman and CEO Jose Muñoz saying the South Korean automaker could become more American than some established U.S. automakers through expanded local production and billions of dollars in investment.

The company announced $26 billion in planned U.S. investments in August. The spending is intended to increase vehicle production in the country, with Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA) in Georgia serving as the centerpiece of its manufacturing expansion.

Alabama to build more hybrids and engines

Muñoz also disclosed that Hyundai will invest approximately $500 million in its Alabama manufacturing facilities. The money will support expanded production of engines and hybrid systems at the sites.

Hyundai will add the Tucson hybrid to Alabama production, alongside the Santa Fe. The company’s broader North American plans call for 58 new or updated models through 2030, while 80 percent of the vehicles it sells in the region are expected to be built locally.

HMGMA could eventually increase its annual capacity to between 700,000 and 800,000 vehicles by 2028. The source characterizes that figure as a potential increase rather than a confirmed capacity target.

Discussing the scale of Hyundai’s American operations, Muñoz said the company would become “more American than a lot of the American OEMs.” He also said he hopes Hyundai will be viewed as part of the American dream within a decade.

New pickup and SUV under development

Hyundai’s expansion plans include additional models aimed at established segments in the U.S. market. A mid-size pickup using a ladder-frame platform is expected to launch by 2030. The truck would compete with vehicles such as the Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet Colorado, and GMC Canyon.

The company is also developing a rugged SUV based on the same platform. Its design is expected to draw inspiration from Hyundai’s Boulder concept, and the model is intended to compete with the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco.

These future products form part of Hyundai’s effort to increase its locally built lineup and strengthen its presence in the U.S. market. However, the source does not provide additional details about their specifications, pricing, or exact launch dates.