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A SODECIA AAPICO joint venture announced it selected Orangeburg County to establish the company’s first South Carolina operation to support Scout Motors.
The company’s $120 million investment will create up to 392 jobs, according to Gov. Henry McMaster’s office.
Officials said SODECIA and AAPICO – both family-owned, global automotive manufacturers – are combining the companies’ core strengths and innovative capabilities to manufacture advanced ladder frames.
This new investment will enable Sodecia Aapico JV to serve as a critical parts supplier for Scout Motors, the emerging automotive manufacturer that is revitalizing an iconic American brand and building its new Production Center in nearby Blythewood, South Carolina, the officials said.SODECIA is a global Tier 1 supplier headquartered in Portugal, operating across more than 40 locations in Europe, North and South America, and Asia.
The company specializes in engineering and manufacturing innovative structural components, powertrain systems and mechanisms for the world’s leading automotive manufacturers.
AAPICO is a publicly listed Tier 1 automotive parts manufacturer based in Thailand with more than 30 years of industry experience that produces jigs, dies, press parts, chassis frame components, cradles, plastic parts, and forged and machined components.
Sodecia Aapico JV’s new 400,000-square-foot facility, at 4100 St. Matthews Road in Orangeburg, will manufacture ladder frames predominately for SUV and truck model vehicles.Construction is expected to be completed during 2027. Companies interested in becoming a supplier for Sodecia Aapico JV should complete S.C. Commerce’s online interest form.The state’s Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project.
“We are thrilled to take this important step toward expanding our footprint in the United States. With our joint resources and the strong confidence that Scout Motors has placed in both companies, success is our only goal,” said AAPICO CEO Swee Chuan Yeap.
“This project symbolizes the strength of collaboration. By combining the best of both companies, we are creating a world-class facility that will deliver value to our customer and long-term opportunities for the local community,” said SODECIA CEO Rui Monteiro."This announcement marks another important milestone as we work to build a robust, local supply chain for Scout Motors and create meaningful opportunities for South Carolinians,” said Scout Motors President and CEO Scott Keogh.
Keogh added, “By investing in Orangeburg County, the Sodecia Aapico joint venture is bringing hundreds of new local jobs, strengthening this state’s thriving automotive ecosystem, and reinforcing our shared commitment to making high-quality Scout vehicles right here in South Carolina. We’re grateful to our partners and to the community for embracing our vision of growth and opportunity.”
“Today’s announcement by Sodecia Aapico JV is another clear vote of confidence in South Carolina’s world-class workforce, and it will further strengthen our booming automotive industry,” McMaster said.
The governor added, “This announcement is also the latest example of Scout Motors’ arrival driving additional investment and job creation across our state, bringing even more opportunities and prosperity for our people.”
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