Hubbry Logo
Toyota Motor Manufacturing MississippiToyota Motor Manufacturing MississippiMain
Open search
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Mississippi
Community hub
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Mississippi
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Mississippi
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Mississippi
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Mississippi
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Toyota Motor Manufacturing Mississippi (TMMMS) is a Toyota manufacturing facility located in Blue Springs, Mississippi that opened in October 2011. It is a subsidiary of Toyota Motor North America, itself a subsidiary of Toyota Motor Corporation of Japan. The facility currently produces the Toyota Corolla for the North American market. The plant has the capacity to produce 170,000 vehicles per year and employs more than 2,000 people.

Key Information

History

[edit]

Toyota announced on February 27, 2007, that it would build its fourteenth North American plant in Blue Springs, Mississippi. The plan was to employ about 2,000 people to build the Highlander SUV beginning in 2010 at an annual capacity of 150,000 vehicles per year. A groundbreaking ceremony for the facility was held on April 18, 2007.[3]

In July 2008, Toyota announced that the Prius would be produced at the plant instead as the Highlander would instead be produced at the Toyota Princeton, Indiana plant replacing the Sequoia that would move production to the San Antonio, Texas plant. [4]

Construction of the plant was put on hold on December 15, 2008, due to the Great Recession in the United States.[5] Construction resumed on June 17, 2010, and at that time, Toyota announced that the plant would now produce the Toyota Corolla instead of the Prius, replacing the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California which closed on April 1, 2010.

The plant began production of the Corolla on October 10, 2011, and the first vehicle rolled off the production line on November 17, 2011.[6][5] A second shift was added to the plant on February 6, 2012.[5]

The plant built nearly 1.2 million 11th generation Corollas, with the last rolling off the production line on February 22, 2019. The plant spent a few weeks preparing to produce the all-new 12th-generation Corolla, which is built on the new Toyota New Global Architecture platform.[7] The first 12th generation Corolla was completed on March 18, 2019.[8]

Products made

[edit]
Annual Corolla Production at TMMMS, 2011–present
YearProduction±%
2011 1,967—    
2012 129,602+6488.8%
2013 158,647+22.4%
2014 189,314+19.3%
2015 190,514+0.6%
2016 182,025−4.5%
2017 163,832−10.0%
2018 136,108−16.9%
2019 157,000+15.3%
2020 —    
2021 128,297—    
2022 132,684+3.4%
2023 —    
2024 180,197—    
Source: [9]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Toyota Motor Manufacturing Mississippi

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Mississippi (TMMMS) is a major automotive assembly plant owned and operated by , located in Blue Springs, . The facility, which broke ground in 2007 and commenced vehicle production in November 2011 following an initial $800 million investment that has since expanded to over $1.3 billion including an $88 million upgrade in 2025 to enable Corolla Hybrid production, specializes in the assembly of the , one of the world's best-selling sedans, with an annual output exceeding 180,000 units and a cumulative total surpassing 2 million vehicles as of 2024. Employing a workforce of approximately 2,400 highly skilled team members, TMMMS utilizes advanced manufacturing technologies, including the introduced during a 2018 upgrade, autonomous mobile robots, laser-welding systems, and ergonomic assembly tools to ensure efficient and high-quality production. The plant's operations have significantly bolstered the regional economy by creating nearly 4,000 direct and indirect jobs through supplier partnerships and contributing over $60 million in community donations since its establishment, supporting local , development, and nonprofit organizations. TMMMS also emphasizes sustainability and innovation, exemplified by its 15,000-square-foot Experience Center—which opened in 2022 to showcase advanced manufacturing processes and workforce training—earning Platinum certification in May 2025, the highest level of recognition from the U.S. Council for design and operations. In 2024 alone, the facility donated more than $500,000 to over 35 local organizations and is set to open a new on-site childcare facility in fall 2025 to further support employee families and community well-being.

Overview

Location and Facilities

Toyota Motor Manufacturing Mississippi (TMMMS) is located in Blue Springs, Mississippi, approximately 20 miles east of Tupelo in the northeastern part of the state. The facility occupies over 1,500 acres of land and encompasses approximately 2 million square feet of manufacturing space, providing ample room for expansive operations and future potential expansions. The plant's infrastructure includes dedicated areas for key manufacturing processes, such as stamping, where is formed into vehicle body parts; , utilizing advanced laser-weld for precision joining; , which applies protective and aesthetic coatings; and final assembly, where components are integrated into complete vehicles. Multiple assembly lines run through the facility, enabling efficient production flow from raw materials to finished products. The site's selection was influenced by its strategic positioning within a certified (TVA) megasite, which facilitated rapid development due to completed environmental studies and infrastructure readiness. Its location benefits from proximity to a growing network of automotive suppliers in Northeast , reducing costs and times. Additionally, access to major transportation routes, including (formerly 78), supports efficient highway connectivity for inbound materials and outbound shipments.

Establishment and Ownership

Toyota Motor Manufacturing Mississippi, Inc. (TMMMS) was established in as a wholly owned of , Inc., which oversees Toyota's operations across the , , and . This founding aligned with Toyota's broader objective to strengthen its North American manufacturing presence by localizing vehicle assembly to meet regional demand more efficiently. The initial investment for the facility totaled approximately $800 million, covering the , , and equipping of the assembly plant to produce compact vehicles. By 2025, Toyota's cumulative capital commitment to TMMMS and associated supplier networks had surpassed $1.2 billion, reflecting ongoing enhancements to support production scalability and technological integration. As part of Motor Corporation's global manufacturing strategy, TMMMS occupies a vital role within the company's network of 11 manufacturing plants in the United States, contributing to the localization of vehicles sold in . This positioning enables to optimize supply chains, reduce transportation costs, and respond agilely to market fluctuations while adhering to the principles of and continuous improvement.

History

Announcement and Planning

On February 27, 2007, Motor Corporation announced plans to construct a new assembly plant in Blue Springs, , as part of its strategy to expand vehicle production in . The facility, named Toyota Motor Manufacturing (TMMMS), was envisioned as the company's eighth vehicle manufacturing plant in the region, with an initial investment of $1.3 billion and an annual production capacity of 150,000 vehicles. This announcement came after a competitive process, where emerged as the preferred location due to its prepared industrial site, skilled workforce, and strategic infrastructure advantages, including proximity to interstates, rail lines, and suppliers. Initially, the plant was planned to produce the sport utility vehicle starting around 2010, aligning with 's goal to localize production of popular models amid growing U.S. market demand. However, in July 2008, amid the global economic recession and a surge in demand for fuel-efficient vehicles, shifted the production focus to the Prius hybrid, reflecting broader industry trends toward and cost-conscious consumer preferences. By June 2010, further adjustments were made due to production consolidation at other facilities and strong North American demand for compact sedans; announced that the plant would instead manufacture the Corolla, postponing the opening to late 2011. The planning phase was heavily influenced by Mississippi's economic incentives package, valued at approximately $296 million, which included infrastructure improvements, abatements, and training programs to support the project. These factors, combined with the site's 1,500-acre expanse in a low-cost region with access to a trainable labor pool, positioned the development as a key element in 's long-term U.S. expansion, aiming to enhance efficiency and reduce import reliance.

Construction and Opening

Construction of the Toyota Motor Manufacturing Mississippi (TMMMS) facility began with a groundbreaking ceremony on April 18, 2007, in Blue Springs, Mississippi, marking the official start of building a new vehicle assembly plant on a 1,700-acre site. The project, initially planned to produce the starting around 2010, involved an investment exceeding $800 million and aimed to create approximately 2,000 jobs upon completion. However, in December 2008, amid the global , Toyota halted further construction when the main building structure was about 90% complete, suspending equipment installation and other finishing work indefinitely. Work resumed on June 17, 2010, following a strategic review that shifted production focus to the to align with market demands and accelerate the plant's launch. Over the next year, teams completed the remaining infrastructure, installed manufacturing equipment, and conducted trial runs, achieving substantial operational readiness by mid-2011. Key milestones included the finalization of the 2-million-square-foot and supporting facilities, enabling the facility to transition from construction to testing phases. The plant officially opened in October 2011, with production of the 11th-generation Corolla commencing on October 10. A line-off ceremony on November 17, 2011, celebrated the first vehicle rolling off the assembly line, attended by Toyota Motor Corporation President Akio and Mississippi Haley , signifying TMMMS's entry into full operations at an initial annual capacity of 150,000 units.

Expansions and Upgrades

In response to growing demand for the Corolla, Toyota Motor Manufacturing Mississippi (TMMMS) introduced a second shift on February 6, 2012, which increased production capacity and employment at the facility. This operational expansion allowed the plant to achieve its targeted annual output of 150,000 vehicles while adding approximately 800 team members, bringing the total workforce to around 2,000. To adapt to evolving vehicle architectures and enhance manufacturing efficiency, TMMMS invested $170 million in 2018 for infrastructure upgrades aligned with Toyota's New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform. This initiative involved a complete overhaul of the assembly lines to support production of the 12th-generation Corolla, incorporating TNGA's principles for improved quality, safety, and performance. The upgrade also created 400 new jobs over the following year, reflecting Toyota's commitment to long-term growth at the Blue Springs site. In a strategic move toward , TMMMS announced in September 2025 the addition of a dedicated for the Corolla Hybrid, marking the first expansion of its vehicle lineup beyond the standard Corolla sedan. This upgrade, supported by an $88 million investment, enables the plant to produce hybrid variants alongside existing models, bolstering Toyota's hybrid manufacturing capabilities in and aligning with broader industry shifts toward sustainable mobility. Production of the Corolla Hybrid is slated to begin in 2026, further diversifying output at the facility.

Operations

Production Capacity and Processes

Toyota Motor Manufacturing Mississippi (TMMMS) operates with an annual production averaging more than 180,000 vehicles, designed to meet demand for compact sedans in the North American market. In , the facility achieved a peak output of 180,197 vehicles, demonstrating its ability to exceed nominal capacity through optimized operations. This scale supports 's regional manufacturing strategy, focusing on efficient volume production within a 2-million-square-foot facility. The core manufacturing processes at TMMMS follow a sequential workflow tailored to compact sedan production, beginning with stamping to form body panels from . This is followed by body , where robotic systems join components into vehicle structures, and painting, which applies corrosion-resistant coatings in a controlled environment to ensure durability and finish quality. Final assembly integrates engines, interiors, and electronics on a moving conveyor line, culminating in rigorous quality testing to verify functionality, safety, and adherence to standards before vehicles are released. These processes incorporate advanced , such as and autonomous mobile robots, to enhance precision and speed. Efficiency at TMMMS is driven by the (TPS), which emphasizes just-in-time inventory to minimize waste by delivering parts exactly when needed, reducing storage costs and improving cash flow. Lean manufacturing principles, a cornerstone of TPS, are implemented site-wide to eliminate non-value-adding activities, foster continuous improvement (), and streamline workflows for higher throughput. The 2018 upgrade to the (TNGA) further refined these processes, enabling greater flexibility and reduced lead times in assembly.

Technology and Sustainability Initiatives

Toyota Motor Manufacturing Mississippi (TMMMS) has integrated advanced and technologies, particularly following its upgrade to the (TNGA), to enhance efficiency in key production areas. The facility employs laser-weld technology and autonomous mobile robots to streamline and processes, allowing for greater precision and flexibility in assembling components. In painting lines, robotic systems are utilized to apply coatings uniformly, reducing variability and supporting the high-volume production of models like the Corolla. These post-TNGA enhancements have enabled modular production setups that adapt quickly to different configurations, aligning with Toyota's emphasis on . Sustainability initiatives at TMMMS focus on resource conservation and , contributing to Toyota's broader Environmental Challenge 2050 goals of achieving zero environmental impact. Energy-efficient systems include a geothermal setup that leverages the Earth's natural heat for cooling, thereby lowering carbon emissions and energy use during cooler periods. Waste reduction efforts incorporate digital tools, such as handheld devices for vehicle inspections that eliminate paper spec sheets, saving approximately 22,740 pounds of paper annually—equivalent to preserving 273 trees. Water recycling is advanced through the ElectroCell system, which uses technology to treat , achieving a 6% annual reduction in usage or over 4.5 million gallons. Additionally, the plant maintains 1,540 acres of wildlife habitats, including grasslands, forests, wetlands, and pollinator-friendly areas, to support restoration. Beginning in 2025, TMMMS is integrating hybrid production technologies as part of an upgrade, leveraging the TNGA platform's to facilitate seamless transitions between gasoline and assembly. This shift enables the production of next-generation hybrid models, such as the Corolla Hybrid, by incorporating battery integration processes into the existing assembly lines for enhanced without major infrastructure overhauls. These advancements build on the plant's foundation to support Toyota's U.S. strategy, promoting flexible while minimizing costs.

Products

Vehicle Models

Toyota Motor Manufacturing Mississippi (TMMMS) primarily assembles the , starting with the 11th generation model introduced in November 2011. This generation, produced from 2011 to 2019, emphasized reliability and in a compact sedan format, becoming a staple for entry-level buyers. Production transitioned to the 12th generation Corolla on March 18, 2019, incorporating Toyota's New Global Architecture platform for improved handling, safety, and design aesthetics. This iteration built on the model's legacy while introducing enhanced connectivity and driver-assistance features to align with evolving consumer expectations. In September 2025, Toyota announced that TMMMS would begin production of the Corolla Hybrid, the first electrified variant to be produced at the plant exclusively for the North American market. This addition will support 's electrification strategy by offering a that combines a with electric motors for superior fuel economy without compromising performance. The Corolla from TMMMS serves as a of Toyota's compact sedan offerings for the , with production focused on vehicles adapted to regional preferences including robust climate control systems and compliance with North American safety standards. These adaptations ensure the model meets diverse demands across the U.S., , and export markets in .

Production Milestones and Output

Toyota Motor Manufacturing Mississippi (TMMMS) achieved its first major production milestone on February 12, 2015, when the 500,000th Corolla rolled off the assembly line, marking the fastest time any Toyota plant in the U.S. had reached this volume since opening. This accomplishment reflected strong demand for the Corolla and efficient operations at the facility, which had begun production just over three years earlier. The plant continued its growth trajectory, reaching the one millionth Corolla on December 12, 2017, coinciding with the celebration of its first decade of operation. By October 2024, TMMMS had assembled its two millionth vehicle, underscoring the facility's role as a key hub for Corolla production in North America. Between 2011 and 2019, the plant produced nearly 1.2 million units of the 11th-generation Corolla, contributing significantly to Toyota's global output of this model. Annual production at TMMMS has shown steady trends, with early capacities planned at 150,000 vehicles per year and actual output exceeding 180,000 in 2014 amid high demand. More recently, the facility has stabilized at over 170,000 units annually, producing 180,197 vehicles in 2024 alone.

Workforce and Impact

Employment and Training Programs

Toyota Motor Manufacturing Mississippi (TMMMS) employs approximately 2,400 team members as of 2025, forming a skilled workforce dedicated to the production of Toyota Corolla vehicles. The plant's recruitment strategy focuses on local hiring from Mississippi communities, drawing talent from surrounding areas such as Blue Springs and nearby counties to build a stable and regionally rooted employee base. This approach is complemented by Toyota's broader commitment to diversity and inclusion, which emphasizes welcoming varied backgrounds to enhance innovation and team dynamics at the facility. Retention efforts include competitive starting wages of $22.50 per hour for production roles, along with opportunities for career advancement to support long-term employee engagement. TMMMS provides extensive on-site training programs to develop assembly skills, safety practices, and adherence to the (TPS) principles, such as continuous improvement () and just-in-time manufacturing. These programs are delivered through a dedicated 15,000-square-foot workforce training and experience center, where team members receive hands-on instruction in stamping, welding, painting, assembly, and quality inspection using advanced tools like simulators and collaborative robots. No prior experience is required for entry-level production positions, as comprehensive ensures new hires quickly master these competencies. A key component of skill development is the 4T Academy, a $1.9 million Toyota-funded initiative launched in 2023 in partnership with local high schools like New Albany and Union County. This hands-on program targets juniors and seniors, offering a state-approved with mock simulations to prepare participants for careers; seniors participate in paid apprenticeships on the production floor, earning certifications while contributing to Corolla assembly under expert guidance. Additionally, collaborations with institutions like provide advanced technician (AMT) pathways, blending classroom learning with paid on-site experience to cultivate a of qualified local talent. These efforts not only build technical proficiency but also instill TPS values, promoting a culture of respect for people and operational excellence.

Community and Economic Contributions

Toyota Motor Manufacturing Mississippi (TMMMS) has significantly bolstered the local since its establishment, with the plant and its suppliers investing over $1.2 billion in Mississippi's by 2025. This has supported the creation of 2,400 direct jobs at the facility, contributing to nearly 4,000 total jobs including thousands of indirect jobs through the and related industries, transforming the Blue Springs area into a hub for automotive manufacturing. The plant's philanthropic efforts have exceeded $60 million in donations since opening in 2011, focusing on , disaster relief, and . Notable contributions include a $50 million endowment to the CREATE Foundation in 2020 to support public initiatives across Northeast , as well as $5.8 million granted in 2024 to Lee County and Pontotoc City Schools for STEM enhancements. In 2024 alone, TMMMS donated over $500,000 to more than 35 local organizations addressing critical needs like hunger relief and workforce development. As part of its commitment to family support, the company is constructing an 18,000-square-foot Children's Learning Center on-site near the plant's Experience Center, set to open in spring 2026 (as of November 2025) and accommodating up to 238 children with a emphasizing STEM and early development. Community engagement initiatives at TMMMS include the Toyota Mississippi Experience Center, a 15,000-square-foot interactive facility that opened in June 2022 to educate visitors on advanced manufacturing and the through exhibits, tram tours, and hands-on demonstrations. The center, which received Platinum certification in 2025 for its , has welcomed thousands of guests annually, fostering public understanding of automotive innovation. Additionally, TMMMS partners with institutions like the University of 's Center for Mathematics and Science Education to promote STEM programs, providing grants, curriculum resources, and transportation support—such as 12 donated vans in 2025—to connect students with career opportunities in and .

References

  1. https://pressroom.toyota.com/facility/toyota-motor-manufacturing-mississippi/
  2. https://pressroom.toyota.com/toyota-begins-corolla-production-mississippi/
  3. https://www.djournal.com/news/business/toyota-mississippi-to-add-corolla-hybrid-model-production/article_2c4d8292-b5d1-4916-ae74-b0857122eed0.html
  4. https://pressroom.toyota.com/toyota-mississippi-experience-center-awarded-leed-platinum-certification/
  5. https://pressroom.toyota.com/toyota-welcomes-guests-to-experience-advanced-manufacturing-in-a-remarkable-way/
  6. https://www.motor.com/2025/08/toyota-invests-in-childcare-centers-for-team-members/
  7. https://www.cdfms.org/cdf/wellspring-project/
  8. https://pressroom.toyota.com/company-history/
  9. https://global.toyota/en/company/profile/facilities/manufacturing-worldwide/north_america.html
  10. https://pressroom.toyota.com/toyota-charges-into-u-s-battery-manufacturing/
  11. https://pressroom.toyota.com/toyotas-u-s-manufacturing-footprint-impacting-communities-with-innovation-and-respect/
  12. https://newsroom.toyota.eu/2007-toyota-to-build-vehicle-plant-in-mississippi-usa/
  13. https://www.wardsauto.com/news/archive-wards-toyota-s-blue-springs-plant-nears-launch/779296/
  14. https://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/28/business/28auto.html
  15. https://www.al.com/live/2008/07/toyota_shifts_gears_from_highl.html
  16. https://global.toyota/en/detail/333129
  17. https://www.pressroom.toyota.com/facility/toyota-motor-manufacturing-mississippi/
  18. https://global.toyota/en/detail/277553
  19. https://abcnews.go.com/Business/story?id=6466939&page=1
  20. https://www.toyota-global.com/company/history_of_toyota/75years/text/leaping_forward_as_a_global_corporation/chapter5/section6/item1.html
  21. https://global.toyota/en/detail/159009
  22. https://pressroom.toyota.com/toyota-mississippi-begins-second-shift/
  23. https://pressroom.toyota.com/toyotas-mississippi-plant-investments-in-full-bloom/
  24. https://mississippi.org/news/toyota-mississippi-makes-major-jobs-and-investment-announcement-in-northeast-mississippi/
  25. https://finance.yahoo.com/news/toyota-mississipi-add-corolla-hybrid-190600524.html
  26. https://pressroom.toyota.com/toyotas-mississippi-plant-a-model-for-sustainable-initiatives/
  27. https://www.djournal.com/news/end-of-an-era-toyota-mississippi-prepares-for-next-generation-corolla/article_a4762860-b812-5533-b71a-4b4ed95cbdff.html
  28. https://pressroom.toyota.com/ready-to-rock-12th-generation-corolla-rolls-off-the-line-at-toyota-mississippi/
  29. https://www.wcbi.com/twelfth-generation-corolla-rolls-off-line-at-toyotas-blue-springs-plant/
  30. https://pressroom.toyota.com/toyota-corolla-now-exported-tmms/
  31. https://pressroom.toyota.com/toyota-500k-corolla-line-off-tmmms/
  32. https://pressroom.toyota.com/10-years-one-million-corollas-strong/
  33. https://pressroom.toyota.com/celebrating-manufacturing-day-10-interesting-facts-about-toyotas-u-s-plants/
  34. https://www.wjtv.com/news/local-news/toyota-mississippi-to-start-making-new-generation-corolla/
  35. https://pressroom.toyota.com/toyota-mississippi-puts-high-school-students-to-work/
  36. https://pressroom.toyota.com/career-readiness-programs-help-prepare-toyotas-future-manufacturing-workforce/
  37. https://careers.toyota.com/us/en/toyota-mississippi
  38. https://createfoundation.com/toyota-wellspring-fund/
  39. https://pressroom.toyota.com/toyota-drives-student-success-with-5-8-million-investment-in-northeast-mississippi/
  40. https://pressroom.toyota.com/building-a-brighter-future-toyota-invests-in-childcare-centers-for-manufacturing-team-members/
  41. https://www.djournal.com/news/business/toyota-childrens-learning-center-setting-standard-to-meet-critical-childcare-need/article_39d0ac88-9e09-41c7-821f-61af1ec9ae73.html
  42. https://www.wcbi.com/toyota-mississippi-building-childcare-center-at-its-blue-springs-plant/
  43. https://www.umfoundation.com/2024/09/26/toyota-partnership-to-fuel-stem-education-in-area-schools/
  44. https://www.friedkin.com/gulf-states-toyota-donates-12-toyota-sienna-vans-to-support-student-transportation-in-northeast-mississippi/
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.