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19 March 2025
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Mar 19, 2025Manufacturing Net
Although it doesn’t compete directly with major manufacturers like Michelin, Bridgestone and Goodyear, LEGO is still the world’s largest tire maker. At least in terms of volume, not size.
According to Guinness World Records, LEGO has been pumping out about 306 million rubber tires each year since 2006. The company peaked in 2010 when the total reached 381 million tires, way more than the nearly 200 million tires Michelin produced in 2024.
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Like its full-size tire-making peers, LEGO is also concerned with sustainability. And that’s why the Danish toy giant said it’s turning to recycled materials for its tire production. It will be using a material that’s created by repurposing discarded ropes and nets from ocean vessels and then combining them with recycled engine oil.
LEGO said the new material will first show up in seven of its different tire pieces, with each containing at least 30% recycled material. The recycled material tires are already showing up in products and the company said it expects them to be used in about 120 different sets by the end of 2025.
Tires made from recycled fishing nets is just one brick in LEGO’s build toward sustainability. Since 2018, the company has used a plastic made from Brazilian sugarcane for some LEGO elements like minifigure accessories and botanical pieces. More than half of the sets produced by the company contain at least one component made from this material.
Beginning last year, LEGO started incorporating a material derived from artificial marble (like the stuff used in countertops) into its transparent elements including lightsabres and windows. The company said that once it fully transitions to the material, it will feature in more than 85% of its sets.
LEGO has also worked with its peers to buy e-methanol, a material produced by blending renewable energy with CO2 from bio-waste, which it will use for certain parts in the near future.
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WEBVTTX-TIMESTAMP-MAP=LOCAL:00:00:00.000,MPEGTS:000:00.239 --> 00:03.720Although it doesn't compete directly with majormanufacturers like Michelin,00:03.799 --> 00:07.880Bridgestone, and Goodyear, Lego is still theworld's largest tire maker,00:08.199 --> 00:12.279at least in terms of volume, not size.According to Guinness World Records,00:12.479 --> 00:17.959Lego has been pumping out about 306 millionrubber tires each year since 2006.00:18.090 --> 00:21.850The company peak.In 2010, when the total reached 381 million00:21.850 --> 00:27.360tires, way more than the nearly 200 milliontires Michelin produced in 2024.00:27.489 --> 00:32.400Like its full size tirema piers, Lego is alsoconcerned with sustainability,00:32.610 --> 00:37.130and that's why the Danish toy giant said it'sturning to recycled materials for its tire00:37.130 --> 00:40.009production.It will be used in a material that's created by00:40.009 --> 00:45.419repurposing discarded ropes and nets from oceanvessels, and then combining them with recycled00:45.419 --> 00:48.529engine oil.Lego said the new material will first show up00:48.529 --> 00:54.020in 7 of its different tire pieces, with eachcontaining at least 30% recycled material.00:54.400 --> 00:58.009The recycled material tires are already showingup in products,00:58.139 --> 01:04.330and the company said it expects them to be usedin about 120 different sets by the end of 2025.01:04.459 --> 01:10.260Tires made from recycled fishing nets is justone brick in Lego's build toward sustainability.01:10.839 --> 01:17.050Since 2018, the company has used a plastic madefrom Brazilian sugar cane for some Lego01:17.050 --> 01:20.559elements like minifi accessories and botanicalpieces.01:20.680 --> 01:24.760More than half of the sets produced by thecompany contain at least one component made01:24.760 --> 01:28.480from this material.Beginning last year, Lego started incorporating01:28.480 --> 01:33.599a material derived from artificial marble, likethe stuff used in countertops into its01:33.599 --> 01:36.839transparent elements, including light sabersand windows.01:37.230 --> 01:40.690The company said that once it fully transitionsto the material,01:40.940 --> 01:46.379it will feature in more than 85% of its sets.Lego has also worked with its peers to buy01:46.379 --> 01:52.489e-ethanol, a material produced by blendingrenewable energy with CO2 from bio waste,01:52.660 --> 01:55.269which it will use for certain parts in the nearfuture.01:55.580 --> 01:57.699I'm Ben Munson, and this is manufacturing now.
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Rwanda’S $190 Million Cimerwa Clinker Factory To Save The Country BillionsRwanda’s Cement manufacturer plans to invest approximately $190 million for the construction of CIMERWA Clinker Factory. The clinker plant project is expected to address the company’s dependence on imports and save the country approximately $2.88 billion in the next 25 years, once it commences operations.
This announcement on the clinker plant was recently made by CIMERWA Chief Executive Officer, Mangesh Kumar Verma. This followed the release of the company’s unaudited financial results.
Also, according to Verma, the plant would commence operations within to years. Additionally, it would produce approximately 60,000 tonnes of clinker, a key component in production of cement, per month.
Furthermore, other than clinker production, the facility would position Rwanda as net exporter of clinker instead of importer.
“The moment our clinker plant commences operations, it will save forex outflow of approximately $2.28 billion in the next 25 year’” Verma stated.
Furthermore, with a monthly, production of 60,000 tonnes, the plant is expected to meet CIMERWA’s local demand which is estimated at 45,000 tonnes per month. The surplus that will be produced will be exported.
In another similar project in clinker production, East African Portland Cement (EAPC) revealed plans of investing $200 million in a clinker factory in Kajiado county in Kenya. This factory is expected to enable EAPC to increase its production capacity and cut its overall production costs.
Project name: Cimerwa Clinker Plant Project. Also, it is sometimes referred to as Cimerwa’s new clinkerisation plant.
Investor/Company: CIMERWA Plc
Estimated investment: Approximately $190 million
Projected production: Around 60,000 tonnes of clinker per month.
Expected start of operations: Within two years of the announcement (made around October 2025).
Economic impact :
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02 October 20252 min readRwanda’S $190 Million Cimerwa Clinker Factory To Save The Country Billions
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02 October 2025
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Eli Lilly Building $6.5B Pharmaceutical Ingredient Factory In TexasEli Lilly plans to build a new $6.5 billion manufacturing facility at Generation Park in Houston, Texas. This planned synthetic medicine active pharmaceutical product (API) facility, the second of four new U.S. sites Lilly will announce this year, will focus on manufacturing the company's pipeline of small molecule medicines. It is expected to be operational within five years.
Lilly will bring 615 new jobs to the Greater Houston area, including engineers, scientists, operations personnel, and lab technicians. The company also expects to generate 4,000 construction jobs as the site is being built and brought online.
The site will be among those that will manufacture orforglipron, Lilly's first oral, small molecule GLP-1 receptor agonist, which the company expects to submit to global regulatory agencies for obesity by the end of this year.
Earlier this year, at a press conference in Washington, D.C., Lilly announced plans to bolster its domestic medicine production across therapeutic areas by building four new pharmaceutical manufacturing sites in the United States. The company recently announced its intended site in Virginia and plans to announce two remaining locations this year.
Lilly plans to use technologies including machine learning, AI, digitally integrated systems and advanced data analytics, and digital automation will be embedded throughout the site to streamline operations. To achieve this, the company will collaborate with local universities and invest in educational initiatives across Texas to build a strong pipeline of talent.
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25 September 20252 min readEli Lilly Building $6.5B Pharmaceutical Ingredient Factory In Texas
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25 September 2025
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Eli Lilly Plans $5 Billion Factory To Make Cancer Meds In VirginiaRICHMOND, VA — Pharmaceutical manufacturer Eli Lilly and Company is moving forward with plans for a $5 billion state-of-the-art manufacturing facility that will generate 650 jobs in Virginia. The announcement was made by Governor Glenn Youngkin this week. The governor said the project will also generate 1,800 construction jobs at the West Creek Business Park in Goochland County.
The investment will be a significant expansion beyond the company's original plans, which called for a $2.148 billion investment and 468 jobs.
The new site will be the company's first active pharmaceutical ingredient and drug product plant for Lilly's emerging bioconjugate platform and monoclonal antibody portfolio. The treatments are primarily used to treat cancer but are being explored for autoimmune diseases and other conditions.
Lilly has committed to more than $50 billion in new manufacturing investments since 2020, with plans to build four new manufacturing facilities in the U.S. The Goochland project represents one of the four projects; the three other locations should be announced before the end of 2025.
Lilly will be eligible to receive a special appropriation of up to $130 million based on an investment of more than $2.148 billion and the creation of 468 jobs, subject to approval by the Virginia General Assembly.
Lilly, a nearly 150-year-old pharmaceutical company based in Indianapolis, has made some significant investments to boost its U.S.-based capabilities. In June, the pharmaceutical giant announced plans to acquire Verve Therapeutics, a Boston-based clinical-stage company developing genetic medicines for cardiovascular disease, for $1.3 billion.
The acquisition came just a few months after the company announced its commitment to more than double its U.S. manufacturing investment to $50 billion, creating thousands of jobs in the process.
The company currently has more than 49,000 employees worldwide, with about 22,000 employees based in the U.S. Lilly has manufacturing facilities in nine countries, including U.S.-based facilities in Indiana, North Carolina, New Jersey, Wisconsin, and Puerto Rico.
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19 September 20252 min readEli Lilly Plans $5 Billion Factory To Make Cancer Meds In Virginia
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19 September 2025
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Radiance To Build $370 Million Secure Microchip Factory In LouisianaRUSTON, La. — Radiance Technologies, an employee-owned defense contractor, this week announced a $370.65 million investment to expand its footprint in Louisiana. The company plans to build a state-of-the-art microchip packaging facility in Lincoln Parish, a move it hopes will bolster national security, fuel innovation, and drive local economic growth.
The Huntsville, Alabama-based company is expected to create 150 direct new jobs with an average salary of $85,000, 180% of the parish average, while expanding on its 14 current positions. Louisiana Economic Development (LED), the state's business development agency, estimates that the project will result in an additional 146 indirect new jobs.
The new 40,000-square-foot facility will house R&D, design and fabrication operations for microchips. Radiance has existing locations in Shreveport and Baton Rouge.
A longtime partner of Louisiana Tech, Radiance is a tenant company in the university's Enterprise Campus research park, where it leverages faculty expertise and the talent pipeline to develop solutions for defense, intelligence, and civilian customers.
LED is providing $20 million in matching dollars through a performance-based grant to the Louisiana Tech University Foundation for the purchase of equipment at the new manufacturing facility, with funding tied to project milestones. In addition, LED is awarding $17 million to Louisiana Tech to upgrade research equipment and create specialized training programs in secure chip manufacturing.
The Louisiana Tech University Foundation led the effort to expand the Radiance footprint on the campus, working closely with the City of Ruston to secure land for the manufacturing facility.
Construction is scheduled to begin in spring 2026 with an anticipated completion in summer 2027.
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28 August 20252 min readRadiance To Build $370 Million Secure Microchip Factory In Louisiana
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28 August 2025
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Egypt And China’S Sailun Group Sign $1 Billion Deal To Construct Sokhna Industrial Zone Tire FactoryEgypt has inked an agreement with China’s Sailun Group to construct an automotive tire manufacturing factory in the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCEZ), involving total investments of $1 billion. This was revealed by a Cabinet statement. Furthermore, the construction of this tyre manufacturing facility facility is expected to span three years. Furthermore, it is expected to ultimately achieving an annual production target of 10 million tires. The first phase of the Sokhna Industrial Zone Tire Factory facility is set to be completed by 2026.
Egypt’s Suez Canal Economic Zone contains six ports and four industrial areas that are situated alongside or in proximity to this vital waterway. Additionally, the government has set special legal and tax advantages upon the area to capitalize on the international shipping traffic that passes through.
Also read: Egypt Finally Inks Agreement on its $1.7 Billion Red Sea Petrochemicals Project Near the Suez Canal
Partnership: A contract between China’s Sailun Group and TEDA Egypt, a developer within the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZone).
Total investment: $1 billion
Location: China-Egypt Teda industrial zone, Sokhna Industrial Zone (within the SCZone)
Timeline and phased development:
Capacity:
Initial production (Phase 1):
Full Production (Upon full completion):
Factory size: 350,000 square meters
The chairperson of the zone indicated in the previous year that many investments are being channelled toward infrastructure so as to attract potential investors.
Also read: Egypt Inks $200 Million Deal with China’s Sunrev Solar to Construct the Ain Sokhna Solar Energy Complex Project
China has been keen to increase its economic engagement in Egypt. It has ventured into key sectors like ports, green hydrogen, industrial projects, and space exploration.
Recent partnerships and collaborations between Egypt and China in this year cover a wide range of sectors. These underscore a deepening strategic relationship between the two countries.
Additionally, both nations have committed to enhancing economic ties. These economic ties will be enhanced especially in areas like electric vehicles, electronics, artificial intelligence, water desalination, solar energy, and feeder industries.
Also read: Egypt Signs $658 Million Contracts for Abu Tartur Phosphoric Acid Complex Project
Also, significant investment promotion forum is also on the agenda to stimulate joint investments. Chinese investments are notably thriving within the China-Egypt TEDA Suez Economic and Trade Cooperation Zone. Furthermore, the China-Egypt TEDA Suez Economic and Trade Cooperation Zone is home to over 160 Chinese enterprises. Also, Egypt’s favorable strategic location and extensive trade agreements further position it as an optimal production and export hub for Chinese businesses.
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17 August 20253 min readEgypt And China’S Sailun Group Sign $1 Billion Deal To Construct Sokhna Industrial Zone Tire Factory
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17 August 2025
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Details Of T1'S Solar Vision Emerge After Bailing On $2.6B U.S. Battery FactoryT1 Energy and Corning today announced a new partnership to boost the U.S. solar supply chain. T1 will source hyper-pure polysilicon and solar wafers made by Corning at its plant in Michigan.
Starting later next year, Corning wafers will be delivered to T1's G2_Austin solar cell facility, which is currently under development. The cells will then be used to make solar modules at T1's operational G1_Dallas site.
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T1's G2_Austin 5 GW Solar Cell Facility is an $850 million project. According to the company, the project is enabled by the Trump Administration's tariffs and other policies that support American manufacturing. The facility is expected to begin producing cells by the end of 2026 and create up to 1,800 full-time jobs.
G2_Austin is a key part of T1's strategy to build a domestic solar and battery supply chain.
T1, formerly known as Norwegian company Freyr Battery, is now based in Austin, Texas. This February, Freyr announced plans to shift its focus from lithium battery development to American solar panel manufacturing with "battery aspirations."
Officials in Georgia may still have a sour taste in their mouths when it comes to T1. When T1 rebranded earlier this year, it also abandoned plans to build a massive electric battery factory in Newnan, which is near Atlanta. The company said it was bailing on the $2.6 billion project that was set to hire more than 700 people.
According to T1, the new agreement with Corning will create a more stable and predictable supply of domestically sourced solar components. By connecting American-made polysilicon, wafers, cells and modules, this vertically integrated model supports long-term planning, regulatory compliance and energy resilience, the company says.
T1 says the U.S. needs more electricity immediately to compete in the global AI race and achieve energy independence. The T1-Corning agreement addresses this urgency by unlocking the nation's most scalable energy source through a manufacturing base that spans Michigan and Texas.
The company bought its solar panel factory from top Chinese solar panel maker Trina Solar for $340 million last year.
"This landmark supply chain agreement with Corning will help invigorate America with scalable, reliable, low-cost energy," said Daniel Barcelo, T1's Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board. "This is American companies building in America and protecting American energy security."
According to Barcelo, the U.S. needs to establish critical energy supply chains built on domestic capacity and industrial knowhow.
AB Ghosh, Corning Vice President and General Manager of Solar and Chairman and CEO of Hemlock Semiconductor, said the company is "accelerating the ramp of our advanced manufacturing capabilities to support a resilient U.S. solar supply chain."
Hemlock Semiconductor, which is majority-owned by Corning, is the largest U.S. manufacturer of hyper-pure polysilicon. The company is headquartered in Hemlock, Michigan.
By building foundational infrastructure in Michigan, Corning hopes to add good-paying manufacturing jobs, strengthen the U.S. solar industry and advance a more energy-independent future for the U.S.
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WEBVTT
X-TIMESTAMP-MAP=LOCAL:00:00:00.000,MPEGTS:0
00:00.009 --> 00:05.369
T1 Energy and Corning today announced a new
partnership to boost the US solar supply chain.
00:05.679 --> 00:11.829
T1 will source hyper pure polysilicon and solar
wafers made by Corning at its plant in Michigan.
00:12.039 --> 00:17.559
Starting later next year, Corning wafers will
be delivered to T1's G2 Austin Solar Cell
00:17.559 --> 00:20.229
facility, which is currently under development.
00:20.440 --> 00:26.079
The cells will then be used to make solar
modules at T1's operational G1 Dallas site.
00:26.200 --> 00:32.020
T1's G2 Austin 5 gigawatt solar cell facility
is an $850 million project.
00:32.310 --> 00:36.180
According to the company, the project is
enabled by the Trump administration's tariffs
00:36.180 --> 00:38.779
and other policies that support American
manufacturing.
00:39.020 --> 00:44.659
The facility is expected to begin producing
cells by the end of 2026 and create up to 1800
00:44.659 --> 00:48.979
full-time jobs.
G2 Austin is a key part of T1's strategy to
00:48.979 --> 00:52.020
build a domestic solar and battery supply chain.
00:52.299 --> 00:56.580
T1, formerly known as Norwegian company Freyr
Battery, is now based in Austin,
00:56.700 --> 00:58.419
Texas.
This February.
00:58.610 --> 01:03.759
It announced plans to shift its focus from lithium
battery development to American solar panel
01:03.759 --> 01:06.910
manufacturing with battery aspirations.
01:07.120 --> 01:11.239
Officials in Georgia may still have a sour
taste in their mouths when it comes to T1.
01:11.480 --> 01:17.000
When T1 rebranded earlier this year, it also
abandoned plans to build a massive electric
01:17.000 --> 01:19.879
battery factory in Noonan, which is near
Atlanta.
01:20.080 --> 01:24.760
The company said it was bailing on the $2.6
billion project that was set to hire more than
01:24.760 --> 01:27.849
700 people.
According to T1, the new agreement with Corning
01:28.059 --> 01:32.860
will create a more stable and predictable
supply of domestically sourced solar components
01:32.860 --> 01:36.690
by connecting American-made polysilicon wafers,
cells, and modules.
01:36.980 --> 01:39.769
This vertically integrated model supports
long-term planning,
01:39.940 --> 01:43.449
regulatory compliance, and energy resilience.
The company says.
01:43.660 --> 01:48.580
T1 says the US needs more electricity
immediately to compete in the global AI race
01:48.580 --> 01:53.419
and achieve energy independence.
The T1 Corning agreement addresses this urgency
01:53.419 --> 01:57.099
by unlocking the nation's most scalable energy
source through a manufacturing
01:57.209 --> 02:00.110
base that spans Michigan and Texas.
02:00.400 --> 02:04.800
The company bought its solar panel factory from
top Chinese solar panel maker Trina Solar for
02:04.800 --> 02:08.800
$340 million last year.
This landmark supply chain agreement with
02:08.800 --> 02:12.119
Corning will help invigorate America with
scalable, reliable,
02:12.240 --> 02:16.960
low-cost energy, said Daniel Barcelo, T1's
chief executive officer and chairman of the
02:16.960 --> 02:19.669
board.
This is American companies building in America.
02:19.669 --> 02:22.880
And protecting American energy security.
According to Barcelo,
02:22.919 --> 02:27.419
the US needs to establish critical energy
supply chains built on domestic capacity and
02:27.419 --> 02:30.940
industrial know-how.
AB Gosh, Corning, vice president and general
02:30.940 --> 02:34.330
manager of solar and chairman and CEO of
Hemlock Semiconductor,
02:34.539 --> 02:38.820
said the company is accelerating the ramp of
its advanced manufacturing capabilities to
02:38.820 --> 02:43.139
support a resilient US solar supply chain.
By building foundational infrastructure in
02:43.139 --> 02:46.610
Michigan, Corning hopes to add good paying
manufacturing jobs,
02:46.860 --> 02:52.490
strengthen the US solar industry, and advance a
more energy independent future for the US.
02:52.899 --> 02:55.660
I'm Anna Wells.
This is Manufacturing Now.
Manufacturing Net
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16 August 20256 min readDetails Of T1'S Solar Vision Emerge After Bailing On $2.6B U.S. Battery Factory
Manufacturing Net
16 August 2025
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€250 Million Siemens Train Factory Officially Opened In Munich-AllachSiemens has marked a significant milestone by opening its newly expanded train factory in Munich-Allach, a move set to redefine rail manufacturing in Europe. Since 2023, the company has invested approximately 250 million euros into constructing modern buildings, state-of-the-art production facilities, and scaling up AI-based solutions. This investment underscores Siemens Mobility’s commitment to strengthening its European service network and maintaining its competitive edge in the global rail market. Notably, the expansion will generate over 500 new jobs, bringing the workforce to about 2,500 employees. As a result, the factory now stands among the most advanced train production sites on the continent.
Also Read Siemens Gamesa Signs Agreement for Establishing 500MW Gulf of Suez Wind Power Project
Moreover, this growth doubles the facility’s workspace from 47,000 to more than 100,000 square meters. For the first time, all products based on the Vectron locomotive platform, including the new Vectouro passenger cars, will be manufactured under one roof. This integration aims to boost efficiency and foster innovation across the production line. In addition, the site will triple its capacity for modern services and become the new headquarters for Siemens Mobility, consolidating research, development, production, and management. According to Roland Busch, CEO of Siemens AG, the factory embodies the future of networked mobility, blending automation, digitalization, and artificial intelligence.
Also Read U.S. Nears $500 Million Deal to Fund Africa’s Lobito Corridor Railway Project
Equipped with cutting-edge technologies such as laser-guided installation, robotics, AI-enabled quality management, digital twins, and AI-driven software development, the expanded facility can now produce up to 385 Vectron locomotives and 180 passenger cars annually. Meanwhile, the Rail Service Centre will significantly ramp up its operations, increasing locomotive overhauls and accident repairs from 25 to 80 per year. Four additional service tracks, along with specialized workshops for bogies and wheelsets, will support this growth. Furthermore, around 70 data and software experts will join the Munich-Allach team to provide modular services and deploy the Railigent X application suite, enhancing support for international clients.
Interestingly, the Munich-Allach site carries a rich legacy that dates back over a century. Originally established in 1841, the facility was once a modest locomotive workshop. Over time, it has evolved into a global hub for rail technology, mirroring the transformation of the rail industry itself. Today, with Siemens’ continued investment, the factory symbolizes a perfect blend of heritage and innovation. By merging “heavy metal” manufacturing with “heavy AI,” Siemens is not only securing its position in the market but also shaping the future of sustainable rail transport across Europe and beyond.
Total Investment: €250 million invested since 2023 in new buildings, high-tech production facilities, and AI-based software solutions
Facility Size Doubled: Factory footprint expanded from 47,000 m² to over 100,000 m², nearly doubling usable space
Production Integration: For the first time, Siemens will manufacture both Vectron locomotives and Vectouro passenger cars on a single site
Enhanced Manufacturing Capacity: Annual production capacity increased to 385 Vectron locomotives and 180 passenger cars
Cutting‑Edge Tech: Adoption of advanced technologies including laser-guided installation, robotics, AI-enabled quality control, digital twins, and AI software development
AI‑Powered Maintenance: Service center capacity to triple, from 25 to 80 locomotive overhauls/repairs per year, supported by modular services and Railigent X solutions
Infrastructure Upgrades: Addition of four new service tracks and specialized workshops for wheelsets and bogies, strengthening heavy-maintenance operations
Software & Data Talent: Approximately 70 data and software specialists will join on‑site to support digital service delivery, including Railigent X
Job Creation: More than 500 new jobs created, bringing the total workforce to around 2,500 employees by 2028
Global HQ Consolidation: The site now houses Siemens Mobility’s global headquarters, bringing R&D, production, service, and management under one roof
Legacy and Innovation: Located on a historic site dating back to Krauss-Maffei’s locomotive production; now transformed into a modern, high-tech rail competence center
Future‑Ready Strategy: With this “heavy‑metal to heavy‑AI” shift, Siemens strengthens Germany’s position as a hub for competitive, digitized, sustainable rail manufacturing
Construction Review
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10 July 20254 min read€250 Million Siemens Train Factory Officially Opened In Munich-Allach
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10 July 2025
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Gm Adjusts Course On Evs With Major $4B Investment For Factory UpgradesSubscribe to our free newsletter today to keep up to date with the latest manufacturing news.
General Motors has announced a $4 billion investment to expand its US manufacturing footprint. The move reflects the automaker’s evolving response to current market conditions and trade pressures. As the United States imposes new tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles and domestic consumer preferences shift, GM is adjusting its production strategy to emphasize gas-powered vehicles while maintaining its electric vehicle programs.
The $4 billion investment will be distributed among three manufacturing sites, each serving a defined role in GM’s revised production plan.
Orion Assembly will be retooled to build full-size internal combustion engine SUVs and light-duty pickup trucks beginning in early 2027. With this change, Factory ZERO in Detroit-Hamtramck will serve as the primary location for assembling GM’s electric lineup, including the Chevrolet Silverado EV, GMC Sierra EV, GMC HUMMER EV, and Cadillac ESCALADE IQ.
Fairfax Assembly will begin producing the Chevrolet Equinox (gas-powered) by mid-2027. Additionally, the facility is expected to launch production of the 2027 Chevrolet Bolt EV before the end of 2025, reinforcing GM’s presence in the compact EV segment.
Spring Hill Manufacturing will expand its output to include the gas-powered Chevrolet Blazer. The facility already assembles EV models such as the Cadillac LYRIQ and Cadillac VISTIQ. This integration of both gas and electric vehicle production reflects GM’s balanced approach to meeting evolving demand.
Although GM has consistently promoted its long-term EV ambitions, this realignment reflects current realities. New US tariffs have raised the cost of Chinese electric vehicle imports by 100 percent, encouraging manufacturers to strengthen domestic production capacity. GM, while not directly importing EVs from China, is responding to these changes by broadening its production options within the United States.
EV adoption continues to grow, but challenges remain. Affordability, charging infrastructure, and regional policy differences continue to influence consumer decisions. GM’s strategy aims to preserve flexibility. By advancing both gas and electric vehicle programs, it can adjust production based on actual demand.
This investment enhances GM’s commitment to US production and labor. The company operates 50 plants and parts facilities across 19 states, and the latest initiative will protect or create thousands of jobs in manufacturing, logistics, and engineering.
By expanding production domestically, GM also strengthens its network of suppliers, many of whom rely on sustained production contracts. These developments support regional economies while reinforcing national manufacturing goals outlined by policymakers.
From a business perspective, GM’s ability to scale efficiently across vehicle types provides a competitive advantage. The company is investing in a manufacturing framework that supports long-term profitability and responsiveness to demand fluctuations.
Sources:
Manufacturing Today
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13 June 20253 min readGm Adjusts Course On Evs With Major $4B Investment For Factory Upgrades
Manufacturing Today
13 June 2025
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Orbic Builds $110M Device Factory To Boost Us-Made TechSubscribe to our free newsletter today to keep up to date with the latest manufacturing news.
Orbic Electronics has begun construction on a $110 million manufacturing facility in Hauppauge, New York, signaling a renewed commitment to domestic electronics production. The project, named “Project Patriot,” represents more than a corporate expansion. It aligns with broader economic and political efforts to reestablish the United States as a competitive player in global technology manufacturing.
The new facility, located at 555 Wireless Boulevard in Suffolk County, will serve as a cornerstone in Orbic’s plan to relocate high-tech device manufacturing from overseas locations back to American soil. With this initiative, Orbic is positioning itself as a key contributor to reshaping the US electronics supply chain, which has long been dominated by Asian manufacturers.
The choice of Long Island, specifically the Hauppauge Industrial Park, reflects Orbic’s focus on logistical efficiency, skilled labor availability, and regional infrastructure. With an existing 69,500-square-foot structure and a planned 75,000-square-foot expansion, the completed 144,500-square-foot facility is expected to become one of the largest high-tech manufacturing hubs in the region.
More than 1,000 jobs will be created as a result of this investment, ranging from skilled manufacturing roles to engineering and quality assurance positions. This employment boost is significant for Suffolk County, where job growth has lagged in manufacturing sectors, and for the broader New York economy.
Orbic’s strategy centers on reshoring, or moving production previously based in countries like China and India back to the United States. This approach responds to consumer demand for domestically produced goods and serves as a hedge against future disruptions like those seen during the COVID-19 pandemic.
By manufacturing in the United States, Orbic reduces its reliance on global supply chains that are susceptible to geopolitical tension, regulatory shifts, and shipping delays. The Hauppauge facility represents a move toward greater control over quality and scheduling.
This decision echoes a national trend among US-based technology firms seeking to build resilience into their operations. Orbic’s domestic presence is expected to provide customers with improved product traceability, lower lead times, and stronger after-sale support.
Orbic is also investing in talent development. Through partnerships with Suffolk County Community College and Queensborough Community College, the company is co-developing training programs designed to prepare students for careers in advanced manufacturing and electronics assembly.
These programs will offer both classroom instruction and hands-on experience in areas such as circuit assembly, production automation, and electronics testing. The goal is to create a steady pipeline of local workers who are equipped to meet the demands of modern device production.
Rather than recruiting from outside the region, Orbic is prioritizing community engagement and workforce accessibility. This approach ties job growth directly to local education and aims to sustain long-term employment for residents.
New York State has committed up to $10 million in Excelsior Jobs Tax Credits to support the project. These performance-based incentives are linked to Orbic’s hiring and capital investment targets, ensuring accountability while encouraging growth.
Governor Kathy Hochul has described Project Patriot as a step forward in her administration’s goal to revitalize domestic manufacturing and reduce dependence on foreign production. Regional leaders have echoed this sentiment, calling the project a sign of confidence in Long Island’s industrial future.
Economic development officials view Orbic’s decision as a potential catalyst for further investment in the Hauppauge region, which offers proximity to transportation networks, existing infrastructure, and a population eager for stable employment in technology fields.
When production begins in 2026, the facility is expected to manufacture a wide range of connected devices. These include smartphones, tablets, laptops, smartwatches, wireless hotspots, and accessories, with a projected annual output of up to 5 million units.
This volume positions Orbic as one of the few US-based companies capable of producing consumer-grade electronics at scale. It offers an alternative to offshore providers, especially for government and enterprise clients that prioritize domestic sourcing and supply chain security.
Sources:
Manufacturing Today
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13 June 20254 min readOrbic Builds $110M Device Factory To Boost Us-Made Tech
Manufacturing Today
13 June 2025
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Gm To Invest $888 Million To Upgrade Engine Factory In Western New YorkBuffalo, N.Y. -- General Motors yesterday announced plans to invest $888 million to make new V8 engines at its Tonawanda Propulsion plant in Western New York.
According to New York Governor Kathy Hochul, the project will support 870 jobs at the factory, including 177 jobs that were deemed "at risk." Empire State Development, New York's economic growth corporation, will provide nearly $17 million in performance-based tax credits. The investment includes new state-of-the-art machinery, equipment, tools, and facility upgrades.
GM "has been a major manufacturer and one of the largest employers in Western New York for years," Governor Hochul said. "This impressive project demonstrates how public/private partnerships can help companies like General Motors expand their operations while supporting jobs in Upstate New York."
GM's sixth-generation V8 engines, used in full-size trucks and SUVs, are expected to deliver improved performance with better fuel economy and reduced emissions. The company says new combustion and thermal management developments are key factors driving the improvements.
The project is expected to start this July and be completed sometime in 2027.
GM says the investment will be the single largest the company has ever made in an engine plant, and Tonawanda will become just the second GM propulsion plant to make the new V8 engines. The factory will still make fifth-generation V8 engines while the plant is upgraded.
In January 2023, GM announced a $579 million investment in its Flint Engine plant in Michigan to assemble the company's sixth generation family of small block V8 gas engines along with the related block, crank and head machining.
The Tonawanda facility currently employs nearly 900 workers, with hourly employees represented by UAW 774.
"This enormous investment is exactly what we've been calling for," said UAW Vice President Mike Booth. "Skilled UAW members, like members of UAW Local 774, make GM's profits, so it's great to see the company investing back into its union workforce so we can keep building quality, world-class products."
GM's Tonawanda Propulsion Plant has been in operation for 87 years. The governor's office said GM has invested more than $1.5 billion into its manufacturing operations across the state over the last 15 years.
GM CEO Mary Barra says the latest investment shows the company's commitment to "strengthening American manufacturing and supporting jobs in the U.S."
In a statement, UAW President Shawn Fain said, "It's time for Ford and Stellantis to learn from GM ... GM is showing that it makes good business sense for major corporations to reverse course on the destructive race-to-the-bottom trade policies that have wreaked havoc on workers and destroyed blue-collar towns and cities across America."
Manufacturing Net
factory
29 May 20253 min readGm To Invest $888 Million To Upgrade Engine Factory In Western New York
Manufacturing Net
29 May 2025
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$6.5 Billion Morocco’S Gotion Gigafactory Construction To CommenceGotion Power Morocco which is a subsidiary of Sino-Europe electric vehicle battery maker Gotion High Tech, is expected to kick off Morocco’s Gotion Gigafactory Construction Project in the north African country “within days.” This was revealed by the company’s Morrocan head Khalid Qalam on Wednesday.
Gotion High Tech had already signed an investment deal with the Moroccan government in June 2024. The company will set up the first gigafactory in Africa near Kenitra, northwestern Morocco. Additionally, the project is expected to cost a total investment of $6.5 billion.
Project name: Gotion Power Morocco Gigafactory.
Location: Kenitra, Morocco (northwestern Morocco).
Investment:
Capacity:
Production focus:
Production start date: Expected to begin production in the third quarter of 2026
Power supply: The gigafactory will be powered by a dedicated 500MW wind power plant with a 2,000MWh energy storage facility, developed in partnership with Saudi energy giant ACWA Power. This $800 million project aligns with Morocco’s renewable energy targets.
Also read: $1.3 Billion Gotion EV Battery Gigafactory Planned for Morocco
The investment of the company is spurred by government incentives. Additionally, it is in line with Morocco’s aim that foresees the country to expand and adapt its automotive sector.
Furthermore, Qalam told an industry conference in Rabat the groundwork for the factory project had been completed. The first production of the factory is expected in the third quarter of 2026.
The first phase of the project is expected to cost of $1.3 billion. Also, as for the capacity, the plant would have 20 gigawatt capacity. He also added that the company had agreed with the Moroccan government to increase the capacity of the factory to 40GW in the second phase. However, he did not give a timeline.
Other than batteries, the plant will also produce cathodes and anodes. According to Qalam, these will be exported in bulk to Europe.
“In fact, we have already gotten orders from several European car manufacturers,” Qalam stated.
Lastly, the geographic location of Morocco is close to Europe. This therefore and its makes it an attractive destination to Chinese EV battery makers.
Also read: Morocco’s Gotion EV Gigafactory $800 Million Wind Power Project
Construction Review
factory
23 May 20252 min read$6.5 Billion Morocco’S Gotion Gigafactory Construction To Commence
Construction Review
23 May 2025
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Ammunition Manufacturer Announces $300M New FactoryA leading global manufacturer of ammunition plans to spend $300 million to establish a new plant in Oklahoma, state and company officials announced Monday.
CBC Global Ammunition, a Brazilian company that also owns the Magtech, MEN and Sinterfire brands of small-caliber ammunition, will establish what would be its third U.S. facility at the MidAmerica Industrial Park in the state’s northeastern corner.
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Company officials said the factory will be capable of producing centerfire cartridges from 9mm to 12.7mm for the military, law enforcement, and sports and hunting markets. It is expected to create 350 jobs.
CBC President Fabio Mazzaro said that the Oklahoma project will be a “cornerstone” for the company’s growth in the U.S., which he called “the world’s most important market for small-caliber ammunition.”
Mazzaro added that the company eventually hopes to build a leading vertically integrated business — with in-house production of all components, propellant and critical raw materials.
Groundbreaking at the 550-acre site — part of what was once a World War II-era munitions plant — is expected to take place late this year. Oklahoma officials said the deal included an undisclosed amount of state incentives.
CBC says it has a global workforce of over 4,000 and produces nearly 2 billion rounds of ammunition annually. Magtech is the company’s master distributor in the U.S.
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WEBVTTX-TIMESTAMP-MAP=LOCAL:00:00:00.000,MPEGTS:000:00.009 --> 00:04.840A leading global manufacturer of ammunitionplans to spend $300 million to establish a new00:04.840 --> 00:07.630plant in Oklahoma.State and company officials announced Monday.00:07.880 --> 00:11.640CBC Global Ammunition, a Brazilian company thatalso owns the Magtech,00:11.840 --> 00:16.360MEN, and Centerfire brands of small caliberammunition, will establish what will be its00:16.360 --> 00:20.549third US facility at the Mid-America IndustrialPark in the state's northeastern corner.00:20.750 --> 00:24.440Company officials said the factory will becapable of producing center fire cartridges.00:24.559 --> 00:28.709From 9 mm to 12.7 millimeters for the military,law enforcement,00:28.950 --> 00:32.860and sports and hunting markets, it is expectedto create 350 jobs.00:32.990 --> 00:37.270CBC President Fabio Mazzaro said that theOklahoma project will be a cornerstone for the00:37.270 --> 00:42.119company's growth in the US, which he called theworld's most important market for small caliber00:42.119 --> 00:44.790ammunition.Mazzaro added that the company eventually hopes00:44.790 --> 00:48.590to build a leading vertically integratedbusiness with in-house production of all00:48.590 --> 00:51.220components.Propellant and critical raw materials.00:51.299 --> 00:55.819Groundbreaking at the 550 acre site, part ofwhat was once a World War II era munitions00:55.819 --> 00:58.450plant, is expected to take place later thisyear.00:58.619 --> 01:02.299Oklahoma officials said the deal included anundisclosed amount of state incentives.01:02.459 --> 01:06.980CBC says it has a global workforce of over 4000and produces nearly 2 billion rounds of01:06.980 --> 01:08.129ammunition annually.01:08.500 --> 01:11.290Magtech is the company's master distributor inthe US.01:11.500 --> 01:13.500I'm Andy Zal.This is manufacturing now.
Manufacturing Net
factory
14 May 20253 min readAmmunition Manufacturer Announces $300M New Factory
Manufacturing Net
14 May 2025
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