In a recent announcement, Samsung SDI and Stellantis N.V. announced plans to construct a second battery manufacturing facility in the United States. This venture falls under the StarPlus Energy collaboration, which saw its establishment following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the two corporations.
Why It Matters
The proposed gigafactory is part of a larger plan to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in the United States and promote a transition to a greener transportation era. The establishment of the second plant will enhance market penetration for Samsung SDI and provide robust support for Stellantis in its goal to boost EV production.
Key Points
- The new facility is set to commence production in 2027 with an estimated initial annual output of 34 gigawatt hours (GWh).
- The first StarPlus Energy gigafactory, which is under construction in Kokomo, Indiana, is expected to begin operations in the first quarter of 2025 with a 33 GWh annual output.
- This upcoming factory represents the sixth battery facility in support of Stellantis’ Dare Forward 2030 electrification plan.
Quotes from Leadership
Samsung SDI President and CEO, Yoon-ho Choi, emphasized the strategic importance of their partnership with Stellantis, stating, “The second plant will accelerate our market penetration into the U.S. and help Stellantis push forward the U.S. transition to an era of electric vehicles…”
Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares outlined how this endeavor contributes to their larger goal: “This new facility will…offer at least 25 new battery electric vehicles for the North American market by the end of the decade.”
Bottom Line
The second StarPlus Energy gigafactory is a significant milestone in the comprehensive strategy aimed at carbon neutrality and increased electric vehicle production. The exact location of the new facility remains under review, with further details to be announced in due time. The realization of this venture is dependent on the execution of definitive documentation. This move represents a significant stride in Stellantis’ ambition to achieve a 100% passenger car battery electric vehicle sales mix in Europe and a 50% mix in the United States by 2030, as outlined in the Dare Forward 2030 strategic plan.
