Andhra Pradesh is all set to emerge as a major automobile hub as South Korea’s Kia Motors is setting up a mega manufacturing plant at Yerramanchi village at Penugonda mandal of Anantapur district.

Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu will be participating as chief guest at the frame installation programme of Kia Motors on Thursday, according to a press release. Kia Motors is planning to release its first car in March 2019.

Kia Motors entered into an MoU with the Government of Andhra Pradesh on April 20, 2017, to produce 3 lakh vehicles per year with an investment of ₹13,000 crore to provide employment opportunity to 11,000 persons, including 4000 direct jobs.

Land allotment

The APIIC allotted 535.50 acres for the main plant, 36 acres for the township and 11.20 acres for the training centre.

The State is ready to allot 250 acres to 40 allied industries at Gudipalli and Yerramanchi villages.

Besides, the State has been making efforts to allot 100 acres for railway siding and 48.47 acres for truck terminal, adds the release.

The plant works are being carried out at a brisk pace. The engine shop, body shop, paint shop, seat shop, assembly unit, utility centre and power train shop are getting ready in the main unit of the plant.