Suppliers for the Kia Motors plant in West Point say they're considering expanding their workforces in preparation for the automaker's plan to construct the Optima sedan.

The LaGrange Daily News reports that the Georgia plant is scheduled to begin producing the 2012 model-year Optima later this year. Kia began hiring employees in April in anticipation for the new vehicle.

Authorities say the plant, near the Georgia-Alabama line, is expected to reach a workforce of about 3,000 this year.

Ron Wilson, the human resource manager for Daehan Solution in West Point, said the company hired workers earlier this year, and it plans to examine its workforce after the Optima's launch to see whether more employees are needed.

Tags: Georgia, economy, jobs, Kia motors, Wes Point, auto production