John Deere, a renowned agricultural machinery manufacturer, is set to bring 50 new job opportunities to Kernersville, North Carolina, with the establishment of a state-of-the-art battery and charger manufacturing plant. The company plans to invest approximately $70 million in the facility, which will primarily focus on serving the off-highway equipment market.
This exciting announcement was made by Governor Roy Cooper, who highlighted the positive impact this project will have on the region’s economy. The new jobs will encompass various roles, such as assemblers, material handlers, packagers, and quality inspectors. The estimated combined payroll for these positions exceeds $3.3 million, according to the governor’s office.
North Carolina has positioned itself as a leader in manufacturing, innovation, and clean transportation. With its strong emphasis on sustainability, the state continues to attract global manufacturers like John Deere. Governor Cooper expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, With our shared values on sustainability, we look forward to creating a cleaner future together.
To support this venture, John Deere will receive a $100,000 grant from One North Carolina, a program that requires the company to meet specific investment and job creation targets. Local governments will also provide matching funds to facilitate the project. This collaborative effort demonstrates the commitment of both the state and local communities to promote economic growth and job creation.
The battery and charger manufacturing plant in Kernersville will be part of John Deere Electric Powertrain, incorporating technology from Kreisel Electric, a company recently acquired by John Deere. The facility will produce Kreisel battery packs, charger technology, and other systems to meet the rising demand for electric solutions, particularly in the evolving off-highway equipment market.
Pierre Guyot, Senior Vice President of John Deere Power Systems and Chairman of Kreisel Electric, emphasized the importance of this investment in expanding production capacity. He stated, As the demand for electric solutions continues to increase, this strategic investment in growing our production capacity will help strengthen our position as an international battery technology leader. Furthermore, Guyot emphasized the company’s commitment to developing a comprehensive charging ecosystem and battery portfolio to support the widespread adoption of electrification across various applications.
This significant announcement comes on the heels of similar investments in North Carolina’s electric vehicle industry. Over the past two years, companies like VinFast, Toyota, and Wolfspeed have chosen the state for their manufacturing plants. These developments not only boost job opportunities but also position North Carolina as a prominent player in the electric vehicle sector.
It is worth mentioning that John Deere already operates a large plant elsewhere in the Triad region, providing employment to approximately 800 individuals, as reported by the Triad Business Journal.
In conclusion, John Deere’s decision to invest in a battery and charger manufacturing plant in Kernersville underscores the company’s commitment to meeting the growing demand for electric solutions in the off-highway equipment market. This project will create 50 new jobs, contribute to the local economy, and further solidify North Carolina’s position as a hub for manufacturing and innovation. With its focus on sustainability, John Deere is determined to play a vital role in the transition towards a cleaner future.
