Less than a decade ago, ground was broken for a historic automaking plant.

This week, that plant – Mazda Toyota Manufacturing – marked a production milestone as it rolled its one millionth vehicle off the line.

To celebrate and reinforce the company’s commitment to North Alabama, MTM gave back to the community with $120,000 in grants.

“They’re such a great partner to our community; we’re very fortunate,” said Beth Shockney, president and CEO of the Limestone County Economic Development Association. “A million cars is amazing. We value them as a partner, having provided over 8,000 jobs on their whole campus.

“It’s been a life-changer, transformational for a lot of our citizens.”

MTM celebrated the 1 millionth vehicle with both popular crossovers assembled at the plant, the Mazda CX-50 and the Toyota Corolla Cross. The company also highlighted the 4,500 team members and instrumental community partners that made the achievement possible.

“Reaching one million vehicles is an extraordinary accomplishment and a testament to the dedication, skill and teamwork demonstrated by our team members every day,” said Senior Vice President Erik Skaggs. “From the day we broke ground, our team has worked tirelessly to build not only world-class vehicles, but also a culture rooted in collaboration and teamwork.”

In giving back to the community, MTM announced the grants to organizations that had supported the company with training and workforce development since day one: Calhoun Community College, Kids to Love, Morgan County Schools and Alabama Automotive Manufacturer’s Association.

“Mazda Toyota Manufacturing has become an invaluable part of our community and regional economy,” said Chip Cherry, president and CEO of the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber. “Through their investment in local organizations, workforce development and regional partnerships, MTM continues to demonstrate what it means to be a great community partner.

“We are proud to celebrate this milestone alongside the entire MTM team and congratulate them on producing their one millionth vehicle.”

Toyota and Mazda announced the $2.3 billion plant in January 2018, the first such manufacturing venture by the two automakers. Ground was broken in November 2018.

The first Toyota Corolla Cross rolled off the “Apollo” line in September 2021 and the Mazda CX-50 began production on the “Discovery” line in January 2022.

The plant also assembles the Toyota Corolla Cross HEV and the Mazda CX-50 Hybrid.

“To go from one car in 2021 to 1 million today is something I am extremely proud of,” said Mayor Tommy Battle. “We are proud of everyone here at MTM.”