The Economy

Electric Vehicle Manufacturer Opens Plant in Korea

June 25, 2010

Prior to opening the plant, Leo Motors was outsourcing its manufacturing.

Electric vehicle maker Leo Motors Inc. recently opened its first manufacturing plant, near Hanam City, Korea.

Leo will produce more than 1,000 units of Hilless 1, 3, and 5 scooters per month in the new plant, according to the company.

Prior to opening the plant, Leo outsourced its manufacturing to an independent suppliers facilities, which Leo had determined was not cost-effective.

Operating our own plant will give us more security in protecting our intellectual property as well as cost leadership and quality enhancement, Leo Motors CEO Robert Kang said.

About the Author

Josh Cable | Former Senior Editor

Former Senior Editor Josh Cable covered innovation issues -- including trends and best practices in R&D, process improvement and product development. He also reported on the best practices of the most successful companies and executives in the world of transportation manufacturing, which encompasses the aerospace, automotive, rail and shipbuilding sectors.

Josh also led the IndustryWeek Manufacturing Hall of Fame, IW’s annual tribute to the most influential executives and thought leaders in U.S. manufacturing history.

Before joining IndustryWeek, Josh was the editor-in-chief of Penton Media’s Government Product News and Government Procurement. He also was an award-winning beat reporter for several small newspapers in Northeast Ohio.

Josh received his BFA in creative writing from Bowling Green University, and continued his professional development through course-work at Ohio University and Cuyahoga Community College.

A lifelong resident of the Buckeye State, Josh currently lives in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland. When the weather cooperates, you’ll find him riding his bike to work, exercising his green thumb in the backyard or playing ultimate Frisbee.