ATL Standard

During a United Nations climate change conference in Dubai, State Representative Mesha Mainor (R-Atlanta) underscored the economic and environmental significance of Georgia's electric vehicle industry amid global discussions on sustainable practices. Mainor emphasized the state's success in striking a balance between environmental progress and economic growth.

In a press release issued by the Georgia General Assembly, Mainor said, "The Peach State has quickly become the epicenter of the electric vehicle movement. In addition to having companies like Hyundai, Rivian and Kia build massive production facilities on our red clay, we are also the choice destination for battery manufacturers like SK Innovation. Georgia is proof that positive climate stewardship and good manufacturing jobs can go hand in hand."

The Georgia Department of Economic Development revealed that there are 35 initiatives within the electric mobility sector across the state. These initiatives are projected to generate a $23 billion investment and create 28,000 employment opportunities.

The same department also reported that since 2020, Georgia has attracted over $25 billion in investments from 45 e-mobility projects. Among these projects is Kia's West Point facility, which plans to produce their new EV9 model assembly starting from the second quarter of 2024. Furthermore, Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA) intends to establish its first dedicated EV and battery manufacturing plant in Bryan County. Full production is anticipated by the first half of 2025, drawing over $2.2 billion in supplier investments since May 2022.

Mainor was elected to the Georgia House of Representatives in 2020 and represents House District 56 according to another press release by the Georgia General Assembly. The district encompasses areas of Atlanta such as Midtown, Georgia Tech, the Atlanta University Center Consortium, Atlantic Station, Piedmont Park and the historic Westside. Notably, Mainor became the first African American woman to transition as a Republican in the Georgia General Assembly.