- Ceer’s $1.3 billion contract for a cutting-edge EV manufacturing facility in King Abdullah Economic City signifies a substantial investment in Saudi Arabia’s EV industry, supported by the country’s Public Investment Fund (PIF).
- Ceer’s collaboration with local construction firm MBL and global technology giants like Siemens and ABB highlights a commitment to leveraging expertise and advanced technologies to drive efficiency and sustainability in EV production.
- Lucid Group’s inauguration of its Jeddah facility, backed by a $1.8 billion investment from PIF, signals a significant expansion in the Saudi EV market, with projections indicating substantial economic growth and job creation opportunities.
The push towards sustainable transportation is gaining momentum globally, with electric vehicles (EVs) playing a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions. In line with this trend, Ceer, an electric vehicle firm backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), has taken a significant step forward by awarding a $1.3 billion (SAR 5 billion) contract for the construction of a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in King Abdullah Economic City. This facility marks a pivotal moment in Saudi Arabia’s journey towards becoming a key player in the EV industry.
Awarding of the Contract
Ceer has entrusted Saudi Arabia’s Modern Building Leaders (MBL) with the construction of the production site, which will span over one million square meters. The decision to partner with MBL underscores Ceer’s commitment to leveraging local expertise and resources to drive the growth of the EV sector within the kingdom.
Scope of the Facility
The manufacturing plant will be equipped with dedicated zones for each stage of vehicle production, including a press shop, body shop, paint shop, and general assembly. This comprehensive setup ensures efficiency and precision in the manufacturing process, resulting in high-quality EVs that meet global standards.
Facility Features
In addition to production zones, the complex will feature specialized areas for logistics, waste management, warehouses, offices, a water treatment system, and a vehicle test track. These facilities are essential for ensuring smooth operations and environmental sustainability throughout the manufacturing process.
Visionary Leadership
Jim DeLuca, the CEO of Ceer, expressed his excitement about realizing the company’s vision to revolutionize Saudi Arabia’s mobility industry. Under his leadership, Ceer aims to set new benchmarks in EV manufacturing by leveraging cutting-edge technologies and forming strategic partnerships with global industry leaders.
Partnerships and Technology
Ceer’s commitment to excellence is evident in its collaborations with renowned technology firms such as Siemens, ABB, Schuler Group, and Dürr. By integrating the best-in-class technologies and equipment, Ceer ensures that its manufacturing processes are efficient, reliable, and environmentally sustainable.
Product Portfolio
As a joint venture with Taiwan’s Foxconn, Ceer is poised to offer a diverse range of vehicles, including sedans and sports utility vehicles (SUVs), tailored to meet the needs of consumers in Saudi Arabia and the broader MENA region. By catering to local preferences and market demands, Ceer aims to establish itself as a leading player in the rapidly evolving EV market.
Advancing Saudi Arabia’s EV Ambitions
Ceer’s ambitious manufacturing project aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader vision to drive innovation and economic diversification through sustainable initiatives. By investing in EV manufacturing infrastructure, the kingdom aims to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and position itself as a hub for green technology and innovation.
Lucid Group’s Contribution
In a parallel development, PIF-backed Lucid Group has inaugurated the first-ever car production facility in the Saudi port city of Jeddah. This facility, located in King Abdullah Economic City, represents a significant milestone for Lucid and the Saudi EV industry as a whole.
Production Capacity
The Jeddah facility will initially focus on assembling the luxury electric sedan Lucid Air, with an initial capacity to produce 5,000 units per year. However, the site is designed to be scalable, with plans to ramp up production to 150,000 cars annually. This expansion reflects Lucid’s confidence in the growth potential of the Saudi EV market.
Market Impact
Lucid Group’s decision to establish its first international manufacturing plant in Saudi Arabia is expected to have a significant impact on the kingdom’s economy. With projections indicating a potential increase in market value of up to $3.4 billion over 15 years, the investment is poised to create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and bolster the country’s reputation as a destination for high-tech manufacturing.
PIF’s Investment
PIF, which holds a majority stake in Lucid Group, demonstrated its commitment to the EV industry by investing $1.8 billion in the luxury EV maker in May 2023. This investment not only reflects PIF’s confidence in Lucid’s potential but also underscores its broader strategy to support innovative companies driving positive change in key sectors.
The awarding of the $1.3 billion contract for Ceer’s EV manufacturing facility and the inauguration of Lucid Group’s production plant represent significant milestones in Saudi Arabia’s journey towards becoming a global leader in the EV industry. With visionary leadership, strategic partnerships, and substantial investments, the kingdom is well-positioned to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the shift towards sustainable transportation. As the EV market continues to evolve, Saudi Arabia’s commitment to innovation and sustainability will play a crucial role in shaping the future of mobility on a global scale.
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