BUILDING A MANUFACTURING LEGACY

Kawasaki didn’t just bring products to the American market—it transformed how manufacturing was done in the U.S. In 1974, Kawasaki took the bold step of opening its first U.S.-based production facility in Lincoln, Nebraska, becoming the first foreign vehicle manufacturer to build on American soil.

This decision had a profound impact on the American manufacturing landscape. By producing locally, Kawasaki eliminated long shipping delays and fostered a supply chain closer to its end customers. The company also contributed to the economy by providing jobs to local communities. Today, the Lincoln plant spans over 1.3 million square feet and produces everything from recreational watercraft to light rail cars, employing more than 1,000 people.

Kawasaki’s plant in Maryville, Missouri, opened in 1989 to focus on general-purpose engines. The 700,000-square-foot facility now employs more than 600 people and plays a critical role in Kawasaki’s U.S. operations. Both plants use the Kawasaki Production System, which integrates Japanese precision with American ingenuity. By adopting a "just-in-time" inventory model, Kawasaki avoids waste while ensuring each part is available exactly when needed.

Kawasaki's approach to manufacturing emphasizes worker involvement. Employees are encouraged to take ownership of the products they assemble, often manufacturing individual parts themselves on the assembly line. This unique combination of craftsmanship and teamwork fosters a sense of pride and ensures high product quality.

Through strategic investments in research and development, Kawasaki’s U.S. plants remain on the cutting edge of innovation. These facilities embody Kawasaki’s belief in sustainable growth and the importance of balancing efficiency with employee well-being, setting a standard for modern manufacturing across industries.