Buffalo, W.Va., Nov. 10, 2014 — The Toyota plant in Buffalo, W.Va. has celebrated many “firsts” in its 18 year history, and today marked yet another milestone as the first 6 speed high torque automatic transmission rolled off their second Automatic Transmission Line.
 
These transmissions are being built for the Highlander and 4 Wheel Drive Sienna  vehicles and will be shipped to Toyota’s assembly plant in Princeton, Indiana.  This expansion increases 6-speed automatic transmission assembly and machining capacity by 20,000 units per month.  Current transmission capacity is 500,000 per year; this new line increases production capacity to 740,000 transmissions per year.
 
In addition, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, West Virginia annually produces 411,000 4 cylinder engines that are used in the Corolla and 228,000 V6 engines which are used in the Highlander, Sienna and RX350.
 
Toyota, West Virginia also manufacturers other 6 speed automatic transmissions for the Toyota Avalon, Camry, Rav4, Venza and Lexus RX350.
 
The new transmission line marks the eighth expansion since Toyota announced the Putnam County facility in 1996.  Employment has grown to over 1,400 team members. This new line represents a $90 million investment and raises the total plant investment to more than $1.4 billion.
 
Millie Marshall, Toyota West Virginia president stated “This capacity increase helps us meet growing North American demand.  Achieving our eighth expansion, clearly demonstrates what our team is capable of – building high quality powertrain products right here in West Virginia.  Team members’ focus on safety, quality and their commitment to continuous improvement has positioned our Buffalo plant to be an important part of Toyota’s efforts to localize production in North America.  We look forward to many more exceptional years as a proud member of the Buffalo community.”