Battery Production Partnership Forms as Amplify Cell Technologies [Updated]

Construction has begun on a 21-gigawatt hour (GWh) factory for Amplify Cell Technologies, the new face of a joint venture by Accelera by Cummins, the zero-emissions business unit of Cummins Inc., Daimler Trucks & Buses US Holding LLC (a Daimler Truck Group Company), and PACCAR.

The venture aims to localize battery cell production and the battery supply chain in the United States. The collaboration will advance zero-emissions technology for electric commercial vehicles and industrial applications.

Ground Breaks on New Battery Cell Manufacturing Plant

Industry leaders recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for the Marshall County, Mississippi, site. The 500-acre site will be home to a two million sq. ft. energy-efficient facility, with an annual manufacturing capacity of 21-GWh for the production of lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery cells.

“I am thrilled to be here with so many of our partners to break ground on this new battery cell manufacturing facility in Marshall County,” said Kel Kearns, CEO of Amplify Cell Technologies. “United in the mission to decarbonize our highways and interstates, our founding partners are making a serious commitment. Marking the start of construction on site signifies this collective effort, and together we will lead the transformation of the commercial transportation industry.”

According to a news release, leaders from Accelera, Daimler, and PACCAR were alongside Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves, U.S. Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith, and local officials to celebrate the groundbreaking.

“As the transportation industry evolves and energy demands grow, it’s crucial that we have American facilities producing the materials and technologies necessary to meet those needs. This joint venture is not only a major job booster for Mississippi, but sets an example for future endeavors in the transportation industry. I am thrilled to see this project take off, as it will increase competition in the market, boost the local economy, and provide jobs for our state,” Sen. Hyde-Smith said.

According to Gov. Reeves, the project is the largest payroll commitment in the state's history. The factory is expected to create more than 2,000 U.S. manufacturing jobs and target the start of production in 2027.

More About Amplify Cell Technologies

Kearns will lead Amplify in producing differentiated LFP battery cells that create value for commercial vehicle customers in North America. Kearns’ career spans several decades, holding various roles in the automotive and manufacturing industries, with his most recent responsibility focused on large-scale electric vehicle manufacturing.

“Amplify Cell Technologies will enable Accelera by Cummins and our partners to advance battery cells focused on commercial and industrial applications in North America and serve our customers’ evolving needs." said Jennifer Rumsey, chair and CEO of Cummins. "This is a significant step forward as we continue leading our industry into the next era of smarter, cleaner power."

Accelera, Daimler Truck and PACCAR each own 30% of the business. EVE Energy serves as the technology partner with 10% ownership and contributes its industry-leading battery cell design and manufacturing expertise to the venture. EVE Energy is a global technology leader in the manufacture of LFP battery cells for the vehicle industry.

“Amplify Cell Technologies will enable PACCAR to offer customers cost-effective premium quality battery electric powertrains that meet their operational and sustainability needs," said Preston Feight, PACCAR chief executive officer. "We are pleased to begin this exciting venture with these world-class partners."

John O’Leary, president and CEO of Daimler Truck North America, said: “For Daimler Truck, a strict focus on costs and smart capital allocation are the key levers to succeed on the path toward truly sustainable transportation. This partnership enables economies of scale beyond Daimler Truck. It is a key puzzle piece of our battery industrialization strategy, ensuring access to the right battery cell technology at the right cost and right time for our customers.”