Easley's Big Boost: German Giant Expands, Jobs on the Way

A German company, ElringKlinger, is putting down deeper roots in Easley, South Carolina. They're investing $68. 5 million to grow their plant there. This move will bring 294 new jobs to the area. The company is known for making parts for electric cars and other high-tech automotive stuff. ElringKlinger isn't new to Easley. They already have a plant there, which they set up last year. That first plant cost $40. 3 million and created 115 jobs. It's on the site of the old Greenville-Pickens Speedway. The speedway closed in 2023 after efforts to save it didn't work out. The expansion will help make more parts for electric vehicles and other projects. The company expects to start the expanded operations in early 2027. South Carolina is helping out too. They gave Pickens County a $750, 000 grant to prepare the site and build new stuff. The company's boss, Thomas Jessulat, said South Carolina is a great place for their business. He mentioned that they already have big orders. So, they're planning to make even more battery and lightweight parts. This expansion is a big deal for Easley and Pickens County. It shows that the area is becoming a hub for car manufacturing, especially for electric vehicles. It's also a good sign for the local economy, bringing more jobs and investment.