Yorozu celebrates 40 years, announces major solar partnership

Forty years of manufacturing in Warren County were celebrated Saturday as Yorozu Automotive Tennessee, formerly known as Calsonic Yorozu Corporation (CYC), marked its milestone anniversary with a special environmental announcement.

The celebration brought together current and former employees, elected officials and community leaders at the company's Morrison facility to recognize four decades of operations and the people who helped make it possible.

A highlight of the event was the announcement of a major solar partnership between Yorozu Automotive Tennessee and GreenWave Solar. GreenWave founder and president Landon Cason and lead energy advisor Creighton Stephens were on hand for the announcement, which represents a new chapter in the company's environmental efforts.

Among those attending were U.S. Rep. Scott DesJarlais, State Rep. Paul Sherrell, Morrison Mayor Sue Anderson and Warren County Executive Terry Bell. U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn's office was represented by field representatives, and a letter from the senator was read during the celebration.

Also recognized were Shinji Watanabe, Consul General of Japan in Nashville; TCAT-McMinnville President Dr. Melody Edmonds; and Warren County Industrial Development Board Executive Director Wendy Sneed.

Yorozu Automotive Tennessee President Chikao Hirata, who joined the Morrison facility in July 2025, was recognized for his leadership and emphasis on employee communication, improvements and growth.

Following the anniversary presentations, guests were invited to tour the manufacturing facility. The festivities also included a picnic for employees and their families.

While the celebration reflected on 40 years of accomplishments, the GreenWave Solar partnership offered a glimpse into what the next chapter could hold for the longtime Warren County manufacturer.