Electric vehicles are growing in Alabama—here’s what you need to know
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Electric vehicles are on the rise in Alabama—that’s great news for the economy and the environment. From new manufacturing plants to charging stations for your eco-friendly car, Alabama electric vehicles are helping us zoom into the future. Keep reading to learn more.
New Alabama electric vehicle manufacturing plants are coming soon
Have you been curious about the newest trends in the automotive industry? Now’s the perfect time to learn more about Alabama electric vehicles with new manufacturing plants coming to the state.
The Mercedes Benz U.S. International (MBUSI) plant in Vance will begin producing luxury electric SUVs in 2022. We reported on MBUSI’S development and job creation in October. Now we know that the plant is a part of Mercedes’ “Electric First” strategy with the goal of CO2 neutrality.
The Vance MBUSI’s expansion also includes a state-of-the-art battery factory in Bibb County. This is great news for the local economy, creating hundreds of jobs.
Electric vehicle production is on the rise in Alabama
So who else is bringing electric vehicles to Alabama? Alabama’s one of the leading states for automobile manufacturing, so it’s no surprise there are multiple electric vehicle plants.
Automotive supplier Valeo recently announced a new facility in Bessemer. The factory will focus on creating supplies that support Mercedes’ new electric vehicles.
Plus, cars aren’t the only option for electric vehicles. The Curtiss Motorcycle Company is a luxury all-electric motorcycle manufacturer, located on 2nd Avenue South in Birmingham. New Flyer, an electric transit producer, has launched a new workforce program in Anniston.
Where can you charge your electric car in Alabama?
If you already have an electric car, you’re in luck. Alabama has plenty of electric car charging stations throughout the state, with over 100 options in Birmingham alone. You can download the free ChargePoint app to see locations near you.
UAB offers multiple options for car charging on their campuses as part of their commitment to improving the campus’s sustainability. You can also find charging stations in Birmingham’s Uptown Entertainment District and at the McWane Science Center.
Even more charging stations are coming soon. The Hardwick’s beautiful new restoration will include charging stations.
What does the growth of the industry mean for the state?
I caught up with Michael Staley, President of the Alabama Clean Fuels Coalition (ACFC), to learn more about what these trends mean. The ACFC began in 2002 and is a nonprofit membership-based organization dedicated to creating a viable market for clean, alternative fuel vehicles.
These innovative Alabama manufacturers create thousands of jobs and their product improves air quality wherever the vehicles are sold while inspiring young Alabamians to enter fields of study that will deliver our next generation of automotive engineers.
Michael Staley, President of the Alabama Clean Fuels Coalition
Staley sees that the electric vehicle industry in Alabama is only growing. The Alabama Clean Fuels Coalition aims to give the public opportunities to interact with electric vehicles through their “EVents”, with their next planned EVent at The Market at Pepper Place on April 24.
The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is also working to expand the accessibility of electric vehicles by supporting new charging stations throughout Alabama through grants.
These funds will invest in Alabama’s future by supporting consumers’ choice to adopt electric vehicles at a time when more automotive companies, including the numerous manufacturers here in Alabama, develop EV technology.
Kenneth Boswell, Director of the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs
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