Chinese Auto Parts Manufacturer Picks North Carolina for First U.S. Factory, 300 Jobs

A Chinese automotive supplier is bringing its first American manufacturing operation to a small North Carolina town, with plans to invest $50 million and create at least 300 jobs.

Xingyu Automotive Lighting Systems will open a 121,800-square-foot factory in Landis, about 25 miles northeast of Charlotte. The company expects to begin hiring in early 2027, with production scheduled to start during the second quarter.

The plant will manufacture plastic components used in vehicle headlights and taillights, supplying automakers operating in the United States.

The Rowan Economic Development Council expects the operation could eventually employ 300 to 500 people.

Why Landis won the factory

Xingyu considered locations across North Carolina, South Carolina and Texas before choosing a building at Landis Ridge Business Park.

The company signed a 10-year lease for the property at 205 Richwater Street, near Interstate 85.

Access to transportation, utilities, available industrial space and the region's growing automotive manufacturing industry helped secure the project.

The initial $50 million investment will cover equipment and facility improvements. Unlike many major industrial developments, the project is moving forward without local economic-development incentives, WSOC-TV reported.

A growing manufacturing corridor

Landis Ridge opened its first three industrial buildings in December 2025, providing nearly 600,000 square feet of space for manufacturing and distribution businesses.

The development occupies approximately 150 acres, with additional construction planned.

Xingyu's arrival follows several other major industrial investments in Rowan County, including new distribution facilities associated with Google and American Eagle.

The region has also attracted automotive suppliers and manufacturers seeking access to the Southeast's expanding vehicle-production network.

For Landis, the new factory offers the prospect of hundreds of manufacturing jobs in a community historically connected to North Carolina's textile industry.

The company has not yet announced specific positions or wages. Those details will become important as hiring approaches next year.