ElringKlinger, an automotive supplier, today announced it is expanding its operations in Pickens County. The company’s $68.5 million investment will create 294 new jobs. Headquartered in Germany, ElringKlinger is a global development partner and manufacturer for the automotive industry, specializing in e-mobility, lightweight solutions, sealing technology, and tooling.

The company operates more than 40 locations worldwide and, in June of 2024, established its main U.S. battery hub for developing and manufacturing e-mobility products, such as battery and lightweight components, in Pickens County. Located at 317 Grand National Lane in Easley, ElringKlinger plans to expand its production of cell contact systems for a major global premium car manufacturer, while also increasing output of lightweight components for electric vehicles and other new projects.

Operations are expected to be online in the first quarter of 2027. Individuals interested in joining the ElringKlinger team should visit the company’s careers page.

 “The expansion of the plant in Easley, South Carolina is another milestone for ElringKlinger in the implementation of our SHAPE30 transformation strategy,” stated ElringKlinger Group CEO Thomas Jessulat. “Thanks to the distinguished characteristics of the state of South Carolina, Pickens County offers excellent opportunities for establishing and further developing future technologies for the automotive industry in the U.S. Based on large-scale production orders already secured, we will ramp-up and expand the production of innovative battery and lightweight components.”

 “ElringKlinger’s expansion in Pickens County is another great vote of confidence in South Carolina’s world-class automotive industry,” stated Governor Henry McMaster. “The 294 new job opportunities created by this announcement will have a tremendous impact in the community, and we look forward to strengthening our partnership with ElringKlinger in the years ahead.”

“Today, we celebrate another major victory for our state’s automotive industry,” stated Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III. “By investing $68.5 million to expand its operations, ElringKlinger is underscoring that South Carolina remains an ideal destination for automotive manufacturers. Congratulations to ElringKlinger and Pickens County on this great accomplishment.”