Auto manufacturer announces $37M expansion at Auburn facility
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Another auto manufacturing company is investing in Auburn, expanding an already active facility.
Shinhwa Auto USA has announced the $37 million expansion which is expected to bring advanced tooling capabilities and vertical integration to the corporation’s operations in Alabama.
The company says the fund will incorporate Italian toolmaker SAPP S.p.A. into the facility’s operations. That move will create approximately 20 skilled engineering and technical positions.
“This expansion is an important milestone that allows us to create a vertically integrated U.S.-based company. Leveraging SAPP’s advanced engineering knowledge will further enhance our technical capabilities as manufacturer of complex and integrated aluminum car systems and will enhance our capabilities to service our customers quickly and efficiently.”
Kwi Hyun Lee, chairman of Shinhwa Group
Shinhwa Auto USA
Shinhwa, a leader in aluminum die cast automotive parts since 1995, began Auburn operations in 2020 and has expanded multiple times since it opened.
The company has developed new capabilities in high-pressure and variable-pressure aluminum casting, automated machining and system component assembly. The SAPP S.p.A. is an established toolmaker with deep expertise in precision die casting engineering.
“We congratulate the leadership at Shinhwa and Mayor Ron Anders and the Auburn City Council for the expansion in Auburn. The investment is a good indicator of the continued growth opportunities that companies find in Alabama’s auto sector. Bringing the tooling capacity to Auburn should further strengthen the manufacturing ecosystem of die casting companies in Alabama.”
Ellen McNair, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce
The tooling operation will be housed in a separate facility in Auburn Technology Park West. The company hopes this strategic location will allow it to serve Shinhwa’s internal manufacturing needs and assist external customers requiring engineering and maintenance services for high-pressure die casting tooling.
The integration of precision tooling capabilities with Shinhwa’s existing casting and machining operations represents a significant step forward for Alabama’s automotive manufacturing sector.
By bringing specialized engineering expertise to Auburn, the company is building the kind of comprehensive manufacturing capability that attracts additional investment and creates pathways for skilled workers across East Alabama.
“Shinhwa is once more growing its operations in Auburn, proving yet again that our city is fertile ground where businesses thrive. Businesses are the backbone of our community. We are grateful for Shinhwa’s investment in Auburn and look forward to seeing their continued success.”
Ron Anders, Auburn mayor
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