Georgia’s electric vehicle industry is booming, but not without controversy. The state is poised to become a major EV manufacturing hub, with billions in investments and thousands of jobs on the horizon. Yet political divisions and local concerns are complicating the transition. This story, reported by Politico, explores the complex landscape of EVs in the Peach State.

The Hyundai Metaplant: A Game-Changer

Hyundai’s $7.5 billion “Metaplant” near Savannah is set to produce 300,000 EVs annually. It’s a massive project, spanning 16 million square feet and promising 8,500 well-paid jobs. But local reactions are mixed. Some see opportunity, while others, like handyman Jerold Griffiths, are skeptical. Griffiths hopes the plant will “convert to gas cars” if Trump wins the election.

At a rally in Georgia, Trump acknowledged Musk’s endorsement, stating, “I support electric vehicles. I must, you know, because Elon has backed me strongly”. However, he emphasized that EVs should be just a “small segment” of the automotive market.

Political Divide Over EVs

EVs have become a political lightning rod. A recent poll found 55% of Republicans say there’s “zero chance” they’ll buy an EV, compared to only 14% of Democrats. The divide is stark in Georgia, where Republican Governor Brian Kemp aims to make the state an “electric mobility capital,” while his party often opposes EV initiatives.

Georgia’s EV History: A Rollercoaster Ride

Don Francis, an EV enthusiast and Trump supporter, embodies Georgia’s complicated relationship with EVs. He installed the state’s first charging station in 1996 but saw the industry collapse and resurge multiple times. In 2015, Georgia briefly became second in EV adoption nationwide due to generous tax credits. But when the Republican legislature axed the incentives, EV sales plummeted by 80%.

The EV Investment Boom

Despite political headwinds, EV investments are pouring into Georgia. Hyundai, Rivian, and SK On are among the major players investing over $17.5 billion in the state. The Inflation Reduction Act has further accelerated this trend, with Georgia now leading the nation in projected EV investment at $24.6 billion.

Local Impact: Boon or Burden?

While economic development officials celebrate, some locals worry about rapid changes. In Pembroke, near the Hyundai plant, City Administrator Chris Benson grapples with housing shortages and potential displacement of long-time residents.

Elizabeth Norman, a local resident, fears the town is unprepared for the influx: “City council meetings are absolutely packed to the gills, full of people saying ‘slow down’ or ‘stop.'”

The Road Ahead

As Georgia navigates its EV future, tensions persist between economic opportunity and political ideology. The success of these massive investments could reshape not just the state’s economy, but potentially its political landscape too.

EVXL’s Take

Georgia’s EV story highlights the complex interplay between technology, politics, and local communities in the transition to electric mobility. While the economic benefits are clear, the cultural and political challenges can’t be ignored. As we’ve seen with Tesla’s impact, successful EV adoption requires not just manufacturing capacity, but also infrastructure development and public acceptance. Georgia’s experience could provide valuable lessons for other states navigating the EV transition.