17-04-2025
KC SmartPort talks changing auto industry at annual event Wednesday
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — KC SmartPort, an affiliate of the Kansas City Area Development Council, hosted its annual industry briefing Wednesday.
Hundreds of industry leaders met to discuss how the automotive sector is transforming—from electrification and advanced manufacturing to rapidly evolving supply chains, shifting trade policies and rising foreign investment.
'The automotive industry is at an inflection point: rapid changes in electrification and global trade are fundamentally transforming the way we do business,' said Christopher Smith, chief government affairs officer for Ford Motor Company and Wednesday's keynote speaker.
They also discussed why Kansas City is positioned as a leader in the industry.
With a Gross Regional Product (GRP) of $5 billion, the Kansas City region has proven to be a major North American hub for automotive manufacturing.
The region is home to 112 auto industry suppliers and employs nearly 23,000 workers in transportation manufacturing – 60% higher than the national average.
Andy Hrasky, vice president of operations for Magna International, emphasized Kansas City's skilled workforce as a key competitive advantage as the company deepens its investment in the region.
'Kansas City has been a driving force in the automotive industry for decades, and today, that leadership is accelerating into new territory,' said Chris Gutierrez, president of KC SmartPort. 'KC is not just building vehicles—we're building the future.
'As global trends reshape the supply chain and drive new investment, our region is responding with innovation, talent and world-class manufacturing strength. From legacy automakers to new suppliers, the road ahead runs straight through Kansas City.'
Also highlighted during Wednesday's event was Panasonic Energy's $4 billion EV battery plant in the Kansas City region. Dan Lee, principal of automotive and strategy practice for Plante Moran, said this will be a key driver of future competitiveness.
The plant is expected to open in spring 2025, FOX4 previously reported.
Those who wish to apply for a position at the new plant can find job listings here.
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