German automaker Mercedes-Benz has just announced a $1 billion investment that will allow it to produce its future EQ line of electric vehicles – specifically, SUVs – at its plant in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, beginning at the turn of the next decade.
In addition to running on electric powertrains, the new models will also incorporate the latest autonomous driving technologies. The first model set for production is called the EQC, shown here.
The move means that Mercedes-Benz will assemble electric vehicles on three continents to meet global demand, and ties in with the company’s stated intention of offering at least one hybrid or electric version of every one of its models by 2022, for a total of over 50 models in all.
Daimler has also announced a $1.18 billion investment in its global battery-production network, which will include a new facility to be built near the Tuscaloosa assembly plant.