Alabama is one of two states still in the running for the $1.6 billion Toyota-Mazda manufacturing plant.

Bloomberg is reporting that Alabama made the cut from as many as 11 states that were on the short list. North Carolina is the sole other contender.

The two auto giants plan to announce the site by early next year, according to Akira Marumoto, Mazda's executive vice president, who was quoted in Tokyo earlier this month.

Both companies would not comment on the report.

In October, sources said the search for a home for the manufacturing plant was down to possibly four Southern states. Both companies reportedly want an incentive package of at least $1 billion to get the sought-after factory.

During his recent visit to Tokyo, President Donald Trump personally thanked executives from the two companies for planning 4,000 new jobs at the plant.

"That's big stuff," Trump said at a meeting with Japanese automakers, including the two companies. "Congratulations. Come on, let me shake your hand."

In August Toyota and Mazda announced the joint venture. It is projected to be operational by 2021.

Toyota will build the Corolla at the plant and Mazda is expected to produce crossovers.