South Korea-based auto supplier Samkee Corp. Tuesday opened its new production facility in Tuskegee Commerce Park.

The $128 million factory, the company’s first in the U.S., will employ more than 170 people at full operation.

Founded in 1978, Samkee specializes in automotive aluminum components, including parts for engines, transmissions, electric vehicles and batteries, along with alloys. The Tuskegee factory will supply parts to Hyundai’s plant in Montgomery.

Alabama Commerce Secretary Ellen McNair said Samkee “is a first-class addition to Alabama’s dynamic auto industry, and the opening of this state-of-the-art facility in Tuskegee demonstrates that the industry continues to gain horsepower in the state.”

The Samkee project received community support, including site improvements, access road updating, upgraded utilities, and a new electrical substation at Tuskegee Commerce Park.

A University of Alabama analysis projects the Samkee project will generate $140.2 million in annual economic output in Macon County, contributing over $37 million to the county’s GDP.

“We are excited to have our first U.S. manufacturing footprint here in Tuskegee. This was only possible due to strong state and local leadership and support from the entire community,” Samkee CEO Chihwan Kim said. “This important investment will help us continue our sustainable growth in the auto industry, as well as strengthen automotive supply chain in the U.S.”