“We are characterizing this [expansion] as ‘Rosarito-plus’: the same thought about a balance between automation and flexibility but going a little further in the automation, a little further in the flexibility,’’ he said. “We are actually adding spec content that we don't build in Rosarito, but we will be able to build in Chicago.”
And the timing couldn’t be better, Kenney added—an optimistic view given that the trailer market has been down for two years.
“We're, hopefully, at the end of the freight recession, and there's an upturn coming,” he said. “So it's perfectly timed for the market to return. We are in a cyclical environment, and we're placing our bets on that fact. This whole thing has been predicated on the market return in ’27.”
Backed by an initial investment of over $450 million, the two sites will extend across 52 acres along the Des Plaines River—one formerly home to Caterpillar’s heavy equipment operations, and the other located at the previous Lion Electric operation site.
This development is planned with partnerships to drive local economic impact, strengthen supplier access, and support broader market growth throughout North America. Both locations offer capacity for future expansion, supporting Hyundai Translead’s core operations and additional product lines to fulfill evolving market needs.
“We are proud to welcome Hyundai Translead to Illinois as a new manufacturer in our state. Their investment represents a long-term commitment that will create 2,500 new jobs and opportunities for working families in Will County and beyond,” Governor J. B. Pritzker said. “Illinois will keep attracting major industries and job creators that are transformational for our economy and the communities and hardworking Illinoisans who power them.”
Kenney noted that the company had looked at facilities in various states, and the selected sites corresponded with the Rosarita manufacturing layout. He also praised the cooperation of the economic development officials who worked with Hyundai Translead to create “the next chapter” for the manufacturer.
Indeed, the announcement reflects a shared vision and commitment to economic advancement between the company, the state of Illinois, and local leadership.
“Hyundai Translead’s transformational investment reflects the strengths that have made Illinois a global center for advanced manufacturing and logistics,” Illinois Economic Development Corporation President and CEO Christy George said. “With its central location, strong infrastructure, and a highly skilled workforce, Illinois provides the environment manufacturers need to serve customers across the continent. We’re proud to support Hyundai Translead’s expansion and look forward to supporting its success.”
