DENSO Air Systems, a global automotive parts manufacturer, will build a new manufacturing operation in Hopkinsville, Ky. The Japanese-owned company is planning a phased investment totaling more than $4.2 million and will initially create 80 new jobs, growing to 105 over the next several years.

“Kentucky is proud to partner with DENSO Air Systems to bring this new manufacturing facility to Hopkinsville,” said Gov. Steve Beshear. “The creation of 105 new quality jobs over the next few years is most welcome news and demonstrates Kentucky’s strength in the automotive sector.  We will continue to work with DENSO Air Systems as they establish their roots in Hopkinsville and look forward to a long and successful future.”

The new DENSO Air Systems operation, which is expected to be operational by mid-summer 2011, will manufacture aluminum pipes, tubes and hoses for the automotive industry. 

“Not only do we look forward to expanding our North American operations, but we are also genuinely excited to become part of the Hopkinsville community,” said Jerry McGuire, president of DENSO Air Systems Michigan. “We are confident we chose the right location for our third manufacturing facility in North America and we have great confidence in the outstanding workforce in Kentucky.”

The Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority preliminarily approved DENSO Air Systems for tax incentives through the Kentucky Business Investment program.  The performance-based incentive was created as part of the Gov. Beshear’s Incentives for a New Kentucky legislation.

“This would be an exciting announcement for Christian County any time, but especially during these tough economic times,” said Sen. Joey Pendleton of Hopkinsville.  “This investment in DENSO Air Systems is an investment in economic development in Christian County. It will provide new opportunities for our workforce through the creation of 105 new jobs.”

“DENSO Air Systems has an unmatched global reputation, and it will be a terrific corporate citizen in our community,” said Rep. John Tilley of Hopkinsville.  “This great news is further proof that the economy is really starting to turn the corner, so I want to thank them for making this move.  I also really appreciate the work done by the Cabinet and by our local economic development officials.”

“We are excited to announce DENSO Air Systems’ decision to locate its operation in Commerce Park,” said Christian County, Ky., Judge Executive Steve Tribble.  “This announcement speaks highly to our business friendly environment and we couldn’t be happier that DENSO Air Systems chose Hopkinsville-Christian County as the right place to grow their business.”

“We are very pleased that DENSO Air Systems made the decision to locate its operation in Hopkinsville,” said Hopkinsville, Ky., Mayor Dan Kemp. “Our Japanese industries are an important component of our community and we are proud to welcome the 9th Japanese company and the 10th Japanese facility to Hopkinsville-Christian County.  We look forward to a long lasting partnership with our newest corporate citizen as they will provide quality jobs for our citizens and the surrounding area.”

Information on Kentucky’s economic development efforts and programs is available at www.ThinkKentucky.com. 

A detailed community profile for Hopkinsville (Christian County) can be viewed at http://thinkkentucky.com/EDIS/cmnty/index.aspx?cw=020.