Articles tagged with "automotive-manufacturing"
Porsche Cayenne EV Production Begins As New Car Sales Tumble In Norway - CleanTechnica
Porsche has commenced production of its all-electric Cayenne EV at the Bratislava factory, which also manufactures gasoline and hybrid versions of the Cayenne along with similar Audi and Volkswagen models. This factory’s flexible production line allows Porsche to quickly adapt to changing demand. A significant development is Porsche bringing battery assembly in-house for the Cayenne EV, establishing the Porsche Smart Battery Shop in Horná Streda. Here, 150 employees assemble battery modules using LG Energy Solution pouch cells, producing enough modules daily for 352 vehicles. These modules, designed as structural components with 108 kWh usable capacity, support over 600 km range (WLTP) and 800-volt fast charging, and are integrated into battery frames by supplier Webasto before final assembly. The vehicle plant has also been extensively adapted, including a new “platform hall” for assembling the skateboard-like chassis and fitting body components produced locally. Porsche emphasizes that the Cayenne Electric embodies the brand’s DNA with in-house battery development, high manufacturing
energyelectric-vehiclesbattery-technologyPorschebattery-assemblyelectric-mobilityautomotive-manufacturingCanada & South Korea Discuss Trade Deal As BYD Eyes India - CleanTechnica
The article discusses recent developments in international trade and automotive manufacturing involving Canada, South Korea, and India amid shifting global economic dynamics. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney emphasized the need for "middle power" nations to strengthen ties to counteract the economic coercion and geopolitical aggression by major powers like the US, China, and Russia. In line with this, Canada and South Korea announced a framework agreement to explore bringing Korean automotive manufacturing to Canada, aiming to grow the auto sector and create jobs. This move contrasts sharply with the US administration's aggressive tariff policies, including a 25% tariff on Canadian vehicles, which have disrupted longstanding duty-free trade. Meanwhile, in India, tensions with the US—exacerbated by insults from the American president toward Prime Minister Narendra Modi—have pushed India to reconsider its alliances. Despite historical border disputes with China, India is now seen as potentially more aligned with China than the US. Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD is reportedly turning its attention to the Indian market, reflecting
energyautomotive-manufacturingtrade-agreementCanadaSouth-Koreaglobal-supply-chainstariffsGM to end Chevy Bolt EV production next year, move China-made Buick to U.S. factory
General Motors announced it will cease production of the Chevrolet Bolt EV at its Fairfax Assembly Plant in Kansas by mid-2027, ending the run of the affordable electric vehicle that debuted recently with a starting price of $29,990. This decision is part of a broader production shift aimed at moving manufacturing away from China and Mexico back to the U.S., influenced by economic and political factors such as tariffs and the termination of the federal EV tax credit. The move reflects GM’s strategy to reduce costs associated with importing vehicles and to adapt to changing market conditions. Starting in mid-2027, the gas-powered Chevrolet Equinox, currently produced in Mexico, will be manufactured at the Fairfax plant. Additionally, the next-generation Buick Envision, now built in China, will also move to the Kansas facility beginning in 2028. While the Bolt’s production is set to end, GM continues to offer other electric models like the Chevy Equinox EV and Chevy Blazer EV. The company has indicated plans to invest
energyelectric-vehiclesautomotive-manufacturingGeneral-MotorsEV-productionChevy-Boltelectric-mobilityXPENG to Begin Local Assembly in Malaysia by Mid-2026 - CleanTechnica
XPENG has announced a partnership with Malaysian industrial firm EP Manufacturing Berhad (EPMB) to begin local assembly of its electric vehicles in Malacca, Malaysia, starting in 2026. The initial production will focus on the G6 electric SUV by March 31, 2026, followed by the X9 minivan and its extended-range hybrid version by May 25, 2026. The agreement also grants EPMB first rights to assemble three additional XPENG models. This move marks XPENG’s third international manufacturing initiative and aligns with a broader trend of Chinese EV makers establishing local production in Southeast Asia to overcome trade barriers and tap into the region’s growing EV market. Malaysia has become a strategic hub for Chinese EV manufacturers due to its right-hand-drive markets and attractive tax incentives, including full exemptions from import duties and sales taxes on locally assembled EVs until the end of 2027. The government aims for EVs to account for 20% of new vehicle sales by
energyelectric-vehiclesXPENGEV-assemblyMalaysiaautomotive-manufacturingSoutheast-AsiaXPENG Looking to Start EV Production in Malaysia - CleanTechnica
XPENG is reportedly negotiating with Malaysian auto parts manufacturer EP Manufacturing Bhd (EPMB) to begin electric vehicle (EV) production in Malaysia, aiming to start mass production around 2026. The initiative targets not only the Malaysian market but also right-hand drive markets across the ASEAN region. XPENG plans to leverage EPMB’s existing manufacturing capacity and planned expansions for EV production. However, specific details such as production volumes, models to be produced, and investment amounts have not been disclosed. This move follows XPENG’s recent expansion outside China, including the start of production in Indonesia in July, where it assembles the X9 model, and a partnership with Magna to produce vehicles in Graz, Austria, to avoid EU tariffs. XPENG’s sales have surged significantly this year, with a 156% increase reaching 391,937 units, highlighting the company’s strong growth and the strategic importance of expanding overseas production to support further international sales growth.
energyelectric-vehiclesEV-productionautomotive-manufacturingrenewable-energyXPENGSoutheast-AsiaChina's BYD, Hantek launch 'World-first' one-piece aluminium EV frame
Chinese manufacturer Hantek has developed a groundbreaking one-piece aluminum frame for electric vehicles (EVs), marking a significant advancement in large aluminum casting technology. The frame, covering about 45 square feet with wall thickness varying from 0.16 to 1.97 inches (a thickness ratio exceeding 12:1), overcomes longstanding challenges in producing ultra-large, thin-walled parts through low-pressure casting. Unlike traditional all-aluminum vehicle frames, which are assembled from numerous smaller parts joined by welding or riveting—introducing complexity, cost, and structural weak points—Hantek’s integrated casting method creates a single, robust frame. This innovation enhances body rigidity, torsional stiffness, and crash performance by optimizing force distribution and eliminating joint-related vulnerabilities. This new casting process represents a major step forward for China’s EV manufacturing, potentially reshaping how large vehicle frames are designed and produced by offering a more efficient, integrated alternative to multi-part assemblies. The frame is featured in the BYD Yangwang
electric-vehiclesaluminum-framelightweight-materialscasting-technologyautomotive-manufacturingBYDstructural-componentsTesla Ramping Up Model Y Production In Germany - CleanTechnica
Tesla is increasing production of its Model Y at the German Giga Berlin factory due to a rebound in demand, prompting the company to switch back to two full shifts per day as of September. This follows a period earlier in 2023 when production had dropped below two shifts daily after Tesla had previously operated three shifts at the end of 2022. The uptick in demand is partly attributed to the introduction of new Model Y variants, especially the more affordable Standard version, as well as the factory’s growing role in exporting vehicles to over 30 international markets. A significant driver behind the increased use of the German factory is the tariff war, which has raised costs on US-produced Model Ys, leading Tesla to export German-made vehicles to markets like Canada instead of those produced in the US. Despite this, the Giga Berlin factory does not supply Tesla’s two largest markets— the USA and China—both of which have experienced declining demand recently. Consequently, Tesla’s overall global consumer demand trends remain unclear,
energyelectric-vehiclesTeslaModel-Yrenewable-energyautomotive-manufacturingclean-technologyBMW, Mercedes to get 100% recycled aluminum wheels and cut energy use by half
German engineers from Entec-Stracon, supported by the German Federal Environmental Foundation (DBU), have developed an innovative casting process called Turbu Pressure Casting for aluminum car wheels. This method significantly reduces energy consumption by half, cuts raw material use by 25%, and eliminates production waste, while producing wheels that are lighter, stronger, and more durable than those made by conventional low-pressure casting. The process forms alloy wheels in just 0.05 seconds by injecting molten aluminum sideways at high pressure, resulting in finer grain structures and improved mechanical properties. Additionally, the wheels can be made from 100% recycled aluminum, enhancing resource efficiency and sustainability. The new casting technique also minimizes post-processing by using contour-near casting to create thin-walled cross-sections, reducing scrap and enabling the reuse of high-quality secondary material. The process consumes only 57 kilowatt hours per wheel compared to the usual 114, potentially saving around nine gigawatt hours of electricity annually per casting machine—equivalent to
energymaterialsaluminumrecycled-materialslightweight-alloysenergy-efficiencyautomotive-manufacturingRevisiting VinFast's Hai Phong Factory: Transformation Complete - CleanTechnica
The article "Revisiting VinFast's Hai Phong Factory: Transformation Complete" provides a detailed, first-hand account of VinFast’s rapid evolution from its early days as a manufacturer of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to becoming a global electric vehicle (EV) automaker. The author, who has visited the VinFast manufacturing complex in Hai Phong multiple times since 2022, highlights the company’s ambitious journey, supported by Vietnam’s largest private conglomerate, Vingroup. VinFast broke ground in 2017 and remarkably completed a full automotive manufacturing facility within 21 months, a feat praised by Vietnam’s Prime Minister as a “miracle.” The factory is notable for its advanced automation, employing thousands of robots for stamping, welding, painting, and assembly, making it the only Vietnamese plant capable of complete core vehicle production. The article also touches on VinFast’s strategic decisions, including its bold move to enter the challenging US market before focusing on closer Southeast Asian markets, reflecting the
energyelectric-vehiclesautomotive-manufacturingVinFastEV-transitionclean-energysustainable-transportationTesla's Unboxed Manufacturing Process — How It Works & Why - CleanTechnica
Tesla has been granted two new US patents for its innovative "unboxed manufacturing process," which promises to revolutionize automobile production by enabling faster assembly with fewer workers, lower costs, and smaller factory footprints. Unlike traditional auto manufacturing—where a vehicle’s body is assembled as a single "box" into which all systems are later installed—the unboxed process involves completing major sub-assemblies, such as the dashboard or front end, separately before joining them. This modular approach allows different components to be built in parallel rather than sequentially on a single assembly line, reducing bottlenecks and increasing efficiency. A key advantage of the unboxed method is its potential to halve production costs and factory size while dramatically speeding up manufacturing. The process also addresses common pain points like corrosion resistance and painting: instead of treating and painting the entire body as one unit with attached doors and panels, these parts are treated and painted separately and then fitted to the body. This reduces complexity and streamlines interior installation. Overall, Tesla’s
roboticsmanufacturing-innovationTeslaautomotive-manufacturingautomationindustrial-robotsproduction-efficiencyFord isn’t going to make more F-150 Lightnings for a while
Ford Motor is prioritizing production of its gas and hybrid F-150 and F-Series Super Duty trucks over the all-electric F-150 Lightning due to supply chain disruptions caused by a fire at aluminum supplier Novelis’ plant in Oswego, New York. The fire, which severely damaged a critical hot mill, has forced Ford to pause assembly of the F-150 Lightning at its Rouge Electric Vehicle Center in Dearborn, Michigan. Ford cited higher profitability and lower aluminum usage of gas and hybrid trucks as reasons for this shift. Although sales of the F-150 Lightning grew nearly 40% year-over-year in Q3 2025, they remain a small fraction compared to gas-powered F-Series sales, with only about 23,000 Lightning trucks sold so far in 2025. The Novelis fire is expected to cost Ford up to $2 billion in Q4 earnings and contributed to the company lowering its full-year profit guidance to $6 billion from $6.5 billion. To recover
energyelectric-vehiclesaluminum-supplyautomotive-manufacturingproduction-disruptionFord-F-150-Lightningelectric-trucksGM’s EV Production Retreat Leads To A $1.6 Billion Financial Hit - CleanTechnica
General Motors (GM) is taking a significant $1.6 billion financial charge due to scaling back its electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing capacity in the U.S. This decision stems from expectations of slower EV adoption caused by the termination of certain consumer tax incentives and reduced emissions regulation stringency. The charges include $1.2 billion in non-cash impairments related to capacity adjustments and $0.4 billion in cash-impacting costs such as contract cancellations and settlements. GM indicated that this reassessment of EV capacity and related investments, including battery component manufacturing, is ongoing. Despite previously achieving "variable cost positive" status—meaning EV sales covered direct costs like materials and labor—this metric likely deteriorated with subsidy changes and reduced production scale, making profitability more challenging. The market reacted positively to GM’s announcement, with its share price rising 2.75%, reflecting investor belief that scaling back EV production may improve financial outcomes. However, this raises questions about the future utilization of facilities built with substantial
electric-vehiclesEV-productionautomotive-manufacturingbattery-technologyenergy-subsidieselectric-mobilityclean-energyEVs take a backseat in Stellantis’ $13B U.S. investment plan
Stellantis, the global automaker behind Chrysler, Jeep, and Ram, announced a $13 billion investment plan to enhance its U.S. manufacturing capabilities over the next four years. This initiative includes developing and producing five new vehicles by 2029 across factories in Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, and Indiana. Key elements of the plan are reopening the Belvidere Assembly Plant in Illinois to expand Jeep Cherokee and Compass production, creating over 5,000 jobs, and introducing a new four-cylinder engine (GMET4 EVO) set for production in 2026. Notably, the investment emphasizes traditional gasoline-powered vehicles, including a large SUV and a midsize truck, alongside only one electrified model—a range-extended EV combining a battery with a gas generator, slated for production in 2028 at the Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Michigan. This investment marks a strategic shift for Stellantis, as it scales back its electrification efforts in the U.S. market. Recent decisions include dropping plans
energyelectric-vehiclesautomotive-manufacturinginternal-combustion-engineextended-range-EVStellantisU.S.-investmentMachina Labs uses robotics, AI to customize automotive body manufacturing - The Robot Report
Machina Labs, founded in 2019 and based in Los Angeles, is revolutionizing automotive body manufacturing by replacing traditional, bulky, and expensive dies and presses with a robotic and AI-driven approach. Their RoboCraftsman platform uses advanced robotics and AI process controls to incrementally form sheet metal into customized vehicle panels rapidly, eliminating the need for dedicated tooling per model variation. This innovation significantly reduces capital costs, storage needs, and production changeover times, enabling automakers to offer customized vehicles at mass-production prices. The technology also allows the use of new metal alloys, such as titanium and nickel, which were previously difficult to form with conventional methods. The company’s approach supports on-demand, low-volume part production near assembly lines, streamlining factory workflows and enabling dynamic batching without disrupting existing manufacturing processes. This contrasts with traditional automotive manufacturing, which relies on long-term use of costly dies and molds, limiting customization and flexibility. Machina Labs initially targeted defense applications with high-mix, low-volume production but
roboticsAIautomotive-manufacturingsheet-metal-formingindustrial-robotsmanufacturing-automationcustom-vehicle-productionVolvo Expands Operations at its Charleston Plant and Updates the 2026 EX90 - CleanTechnica
Volvo is expanding its Charleston, South Carolina manufacturing plant, its first US facility, which currently produces the fully electric EX90 and the Polestar 3. Opened in 2015 with a $1.3 billion investment over the past decade, the plant will now add production of the Volvo XC60, utilizing existing factory space to optimize logistics, reduce emissions, and lower costs. Additionally, Volvo plans to introduce a next-generation hybrid vehicle at the Charleston plant by 2030, described by CEO Håkan Samuelsson as a range-extended electric vehicle that operates primarily as an electric car with an onboard charger to extend range, marking a shift toward true zero-emission driving. Alongside the plant expansion, Volvo unveiled updates to the 2026 EX90, including a move to an 800-volt battery architecture that enables faster charging and improved acceleration. The EX90 will also feature an upgraded core computer system, transitioning from Nvidia’s Orin-based processor to the latest Drive ATX
energyelectric-vehicleshybrid-carsVolvoautomotive-manufacturingclean-energysustainable-transportation'Self-fixturing’ friction stir welding could soon enter into manufacturing
A breakthrough at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) promises to expand the use of friction stir welding (FSW) in manufacturing, particularly on automotive assembly lines. FSW is an energy-efficient welding technique that uses a spinning tool to generate heat and deformation, joining metals without rivets or adhesives. However, its adoption has been limited because the process exerts tremendous force—up to 5,000 pounds—that traditionally requires a rigid anvil underneath the materials to constrain and ensure precise welds. This constraint has made it difficult to apply FSW broadly on assembly lines. PNNL researchers have developed a novel “self-fixturing” friction stir welding system that integrates both the spinning tool and a miniature backing plate into a robotic arm attachment. This innovation eliminates the need for a separate rigid anvil, allowing the welding tool to be more maneuverable and adaptable to complex parts. The team is also incorporating a hydraulic system that captures the forces generated during welding,
friction-stir-weldingadvanced-manufacturingrobotic-armsmaterials-scienceenergy-efficiencyautomotive-manufacturingself-fixturing-technologyRivian breaks ground on $5B Georgia factory ahead of construction in 2026
Rivian has officially broken ground on its planned $5 billion electric vehicle factory near Atlanta, Georgia, marking a significant milestone for the project. While the ceremonial event took place recently, full construction is slated to begin in early 2026, with vehicle production expected to start in 2028. The factory aims to produce up to 400,000 next-generation electric vehicles annually and is projected to create 7,500 permanent jobs, along with 2,000 construction jobs during the build phase. Additionally, an estimated 8,000 indirect jobs are expected through local suppliers and vendors. Currently, Rivian is focused on preparatory work such as installing utilities and building access roads. The Georgia factory project has faced delays and uncertainties since its announcement shortly after Rivian’s 2021 IPO. Initial plans to start construction in 2022 were postponed due to local opposition and pandemic-related supply chain issues. In 2024, Rivian temporarily prioritized expanding its Illinois factory to meet production timelines for
energyelectric-vehiclesRivianfactory-constructionautomotive-manufacturingrenewable-energyDepartment-of-EnergyBYD Growth Continues In Nepal, Malaysia, & Cambodia - CleanTechnica
BYD is significantly expanding its electric vehicle (EV) presence in emerging markets such as Nepal, Malaysia, and Cambodia, reflecting growing EV adoption in regions often overlooked by mainstream coverage. In Nepal, BYD has introduced its Atto 2 model, marking the seventh BYD EV available in the country. The Atto 2, launched at a Kathmandu auto show in August 2025, offers a competitive range of 345 kilometers and a larger battery than its Chinese counterpart, priced at about $31,325. BYD’s Nepal lineup also includes models like the Atto 3, Dolphin, Seal, and M6 MPV, with the company having sold EVs there since 2018. In Malaysia, BYD is establishing a completely knocked down (CKD) assembly plant set to begin production in 2026, underscoring the country’s importance in BYD’s Southeast Asian strategy. The BYD Seal, the best-selling electric sedan in Malaysia in 2024,
energyelectric-vehiclesBYDbattery-technologyEV-market-expansionautomotive-manufacturingclean-energyTechCrunch Mobility: Ford’s big bet
Ford announced a $2 billion investment to convert its Louisville Assembly Plant into a facility for producing a new generation of affordable electric vehicles (EVs), starting with a midsize pickup truck priced around $30,000, expected to launch in 2027. CEO Jim Farley emphasized the risks involved, noting that the project is a significant bet involving many new approaches. Ford developed a novel three-pronged assembly line using increased automation and unicastings, departing from its traditional manufacturing methods to build EVs more efficiently and maintain profit margins. This $5 billion experiment, including a $3 billion investment in a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery factory, aims to keep jobs in the U.S. amid challenges like tariffs, slower EV demand, and competition from China. However, the new manufacturing technique is vehicle-specific and cannot be easily applied to other Ford factories. The article also briefly covers other mobility sector news: rental car startup Kyte has effectively ceased operations after selling its customer list to peer-to
energyelectric-vehiclesautomotive-manufacturingbattery-factoryautomationEV-productionFordPassion Drives PH Automotive Pioneer Francisco Motors to Export to Nigeria - CleanTechnica
Francisco Motors Corp. (FMC), a pioneering Philippine automotive company, is preparing to export its electric vehicle, the Pinoy Transporter, to Nigeria as part of its strategy to bring Philippine technology to international markets. FMC recently partnered with Nigerian entrepreneur Emmanuel Akpakwu, who is also the Honorary Consul of the Philippines in Lagos, to facilitate this expansion. Initially, FMC plans to export completely built-up units (CBUs) for real-world testing in Nigeria, with a long-term goal of establishing a local assembly plant to produce vehicles more cost-effectively. The company aims to distribute vehicles throughout West Africa, sourcing most parts from the Philippines and some from Thailand, Germany, Australia, and China. Chairman Elmer Francisco expressed frustration over the slow support from Philippine government and businesses in developing the country’s e-vehicle market, which has led FMC to establish a factory in China to serve global markets while awaiting local government processes. Francisco is also advancing green hydrogen technology through a partnership with Net
electric-vehicleshydrogen-energygreen-hydrogenautomotive-manufacturingenergy-storagesustainable-transportclean-energy-technologyVolvo Cars Plans to Build Polestar 7 at Kosice, Slovakia Plant - CleanTechnica
Volvo Cars and Polestar have signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding to develop and produce the Polestar 7, a premium fully electric compact SUV, at Volvo’s new manufacturing plant in Kosice, Slovakia. The Polestar 7 is planned for launch in 2028 and will be the second vehicle produced at the Kosice facility, following a next-generation Volvo model yet to be announced. The vehicle will share technology and components with upcoming Volvo models such as the Volvo EX60, including advanced features like mega casting, cell-to-body battery technology, next-generation battery density, and Volvo’s in-house developed electric motors. This shared technology approach aims to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and enable continuous feature updates via over-the-air software improvements. The Kosice plant, currently under construction with an investment of approximately EUR 1.2 billion, will be Volvo Cars’ third European manufacturing site and is designed to be climate-neutral, producing only electric vehicles. It will complement Volvo’s existing plants in Gh
electric-vehiclesbattery-technologyenergy-efficiencyautomotive-manufacturingelectric-motorsclean-energyover-the-air-updatesPlans To Assemble Polestar 7 In Slovakia Possible - CleanTechnica
Volvo plans to assemble the upcoming Polestar 7 electric SUV at its new Kosice plant in Slovakia, with production expected to begin in 2026 and the vehicle launch slated for 2028. This marks a strategic expansion of Polestar’s manufacturing footprint beyond its traditional base in China, reflecting a broader global production approach. Slovakia was chosen due to its established automotive industry, skilled workforce, and robust supply chain, hosting major manufacturers like Volkswagen and Kia. The Kosice facility, currently under construction and 60% complete as of mid-2024, will initially produce a next-generation Volvo model before transitioning to Polestar 7 assembly. Polestar, originally Volvo’s performance division, has historically focused manufacturing in China following Geely’s acquisition, with models like the Polestar 1 and 2 produced there. However, recent diversification includes production of the Polestar 3 SUV in both China and the U.S., and the Polestar 4 in China and South Korea. The Polestar
energyelectric-vehiclesautomotive-manufacturingPolestarSlovakiaEV-productionclean-technologyBYD Set to Dominate NEV Market in Southeast Asia, Starting with Thailand - CleanTechnica
BYD is rapidly expanding its presence in the Southeast Asian new energy vehicle (NEV) market, using a strategy of partnering with prominent local automotive groups to establish distributorships and manufacturing bases across the region. Thailand serves as a key hub for this expansion, with BYD selling approximately 27,000 units there in 2023—significantly outpacing Tesla’s 4,121 units—and capturing 14% of the total market share despite a slight overall market decline. In July 2024, BYD inaugurated a manufacturing plant in Rayong, Thailand, capable of producing 150,000 vehicles annually and creating around 10,000 jobs. This plant, completed in just 16 months with strong government support, handles stamping, painting, welding, and final assembly. In other ASEAN countries, BYD faces varying challenges but continues to grow through local partnerships. Malaysia’s market is tough due to low fuel prices and strong competition from the national car Proton, partly owned by Ge
energyelectric-vehiclesBYDSoutheast-AsiaNEV-marketautomotive-manufacturingclean-energyInside The Slate Auto Factory - CleanTechnica
Slate Auto, partially backed by Jeff Bezos, is positioning itself as an "anti-Tesla" in the electric vehicle market by focusing on simplicity and utility rather than high-tech features. Unlike Tesla’s feature-rich electric cars, Slate builds bare-bones electric trucks designed to be tough, practical, and affordable. The base model comes with unpainted, dent- and rust-proof gray polypropylene panels and weighs about 3,600 pounds with a standard 52.7 kWh battery, significantly lighter and smaller than Tesla’s Cybertruck. Customers can customize their trucks with optional upgrades, including kits to convert the vehicle into a five-seat fastback or a squared-off style reminiscent of classic rugged trucks like the Ford Courier or Jeep Wrangler. The starting price is estimated around $25,000, emphasizing affordability and straightforward utility. Slate’s manufacturing approach centers on simplifying production to reduce costs and accelerate market entry. The company is currently hand-building prototypes and pre-production vehicles at a small assembly line in Orion Township, Michigan, while its main production facility is being established in a former printing plant in Warsaw, Indiana, with a planned capacity of up to 150,000 vehicles per year. Slate’s leadership emphasizes flexibility in their production plans and aims to deliver a new category of electric trucks that meet essential needs without unnecessary complexity. This strategy is intended to disrupt the market by providing honest, no-frills electric trucks at a lower price point, contrasting sharply with the more luxurious and heavier electric trucks currently dominating the market.
energyelectric-vehiclesbattery-technologyautomotive-manufacturinglightweight-materialselectric-trucksclean-energy