Arrival to build its first U.S. electric vehicle factory in South Carolina

Zero-emissions electric vehicle manufacturer Arrival, a London-based company, will build its first U.S. microfactory in Rock Hill, South Carolina.

The company’s $46 million investment is expected to create 240 new jobs in York County.

“Our new Microfactory in South Carolina is the beginning of a paradigm shift in the [electric vehicle] space,” Mike Ableson, CEO of Arrival North America, said in a statement. “We’re thankful for the great work at the state and local levels that lead us to South Carolina, and we are excited to be able to partner with York County to deliver our vision for commercial electric vehicles while investing in the lives of the community members that support Arrival.”

Arrival’s new facility will use a cell-based assembly method, instead of a traditional assembly line model, allowing it to produce any vehicle from the Arrival portfolio. The factory setup is designed to reduce the cost of Arrival electric vehicles, and ultimately make them more affordable to consumers.

“We couldn’t be happier that Arrival has decided to build zero-emissions [electric vehicles] right here in South Carolina,” Gov. Henry McMaster said. “It speaks volumes to our business-friendly climate and well-trained workforce, and we look forward to working with them for many years to come.”

Operations are expected to begin by early 2021. Production will initially focus on building electric busses, sourcing materials through a localized supply chain, the company said.

“The automotive industry continues to be a major job creator in our state’s economy, and today’s announcement is another sign of that,” Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt said. “Arrival’s decision to locate new operations in South Carolina builds on our international reputation for being a place where businesses can succeed.”

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