Accelera, Daimler Truck, PACCAR plan 21 GWh battery plant in Mississippi -

Image for representation purposes only. Source: Daimler Truck North America

Cummins' zero-emission division 'Accelera', Daimler Truck, and PACCAR have finalized the location for their joint battery cell manufacturing facility as Marshall County, Mississippi in the United States. The 21 GWh factory is expected to begin producing battery cells for commercial electric vehicles in 2027.

The partners, working in the commercial vehicle technology space in global markets, announced their JV last year to create scale to deliver cost effective and differentiated battery cell technology that supports the adoption of EVs for medium- and heavy-duty commercial transportation.

The three companies will hold joint control of the new business with 30 percent stake for each, focusing on the lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery technology for commercial battery-electric trucks.

EVE Energy will serve as the technology partner in the joint venture, holding the remaining 10 percent ownership, contributing its battery cell design and manufacturing expertise to the upcoming cell manufacturing plant.

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"This site selection represents an exciting and tangible step toward advancing our Destination Zero strategy and our vision to lead the industry toward a decarbonized future," said Jennifer Rumsey, Cummins Chair and Chief Executive Officer.

Commenting on the development, John O'Leary, president and CEO, Daimler Truck North America, "Localized battery cell production is an important component of delivering our customers – the fleets that keep America and the world moving – cost effective options for decarbonizing their operations".

"The state, the communities and the people of Mississippi are wonderful business partners for PACCAR. We look forward to expanding that partnership in northern Mississippi with this new battery cell factory that will provide industry-leading cost effective zero emissions solutions for our customers," opined Preston Feight, PACCAR Chief Executive Officer.

The joint venture is expected to play a major role in decarbonization of commercial vehicles in North America. While Daimler Truck represents truck brands such as Mercedes-Benz, Freightliner, and Western Star, while PACCAR group owns Kenworth, Peterbilt and DAF nameplates that are popular in the region.