Vehicle exports from Kentucky were up 43 percent through the first nine months of the year, setting a state record.
Governor Steve Beshear said the state exported more than $3 billion worth of vehicles between January and September and will likely top $4 billion by year's end. That, he said, translates into more jobs and a stronger economy for Kentucky.
The previous record for vehicle exports was $2.7 billion set last year.
Beshear said a significant part of the growth is the result of exports to Saudi Arabia, which now is the second largest buyer of Kentucky-made automobiles.
Canada remains the top consumer of vehicles produced in Kentucky.
Exports of all Kentucky products also are on a record pace, having reached $18.4 billion as of September.