Cummins, Daimler, PACCAR Complete Battery Joint Venture

In News, Daimler3 MinutesBy NZ Trucking magazineJune 6, 2024

Accelera by Cummins, Daimler Trucks & Buses, and PACCAR have completed the formation of their joint venture, now known as Amplify Cell Technologies.

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

Amplify will soon begin construction of a 21-gigawatt hour  factory in Marshall County, Miss., with potential for further expansion as demand grows. The factory is expected to create more than 2000 U.S. manufacturing jobs and is targeting the start of its production operations in 2027.

Kel Kearns has been named as the new chief executive officer for the new company. He will lead Amplify in producing differentiated lithium-iron-phosphate battery cells that create value for commercial vehicle customers in North America.

Kearns’ career spans several decades holding various roles in automotive and manufacturing industries, with his most recent responsibility focused on large-scale electric vehicle manufacturing.

Accelera, Daimler Truck and PACCAR each own 30% of the business. EVE Energy serves as the technology partner with 10% ownership and contributes its 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.

“Cummins’ power solutions are at the heart of the economy, and we have the responsibility to decarbonise in a way that meets our customers’ varied needs as they navigate the energy transition,” said Jennifer Rumsey, chair and CEO, Cummins Inc.

“Amplify Cell Technologies will enable Accelera by Cummins and our partners to deliver solutions that best serve our customers and the planet. This is a significant step forward as we lead our industry into the next era of smarter, cleaner power.”

“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 industrialisation strategy, ensuring access to the right battery cell technology at the right cost and right time for our customers.”