Southeast States Form New Auto Manufacturing Partnership
Georgia and Mississippi are teaming up with Alabama to establish a partnership aimed at enhancing automobile and battery manufacturing in the Southeast.
This collaboration supports the University of Alabama, University of Georgia, and Mississippi State University, along with the governors from all three states, and electric utility companies like Southern Company, Alabama Power, Georgia Power, and Mississippi Power.
On Wednesday, state officials unveiled the Alabama, Mississippi-Georgia Network for Evolving Transportation.
The new initiative will be based at the University of Alabama and aims to unify the region’s diverse capabilities and resources to support the evolving transportation sector. The focus will be on developing well-maintained infrastructure, a skilled workforce, and robust innovation.
“In 2023, our three states collectively produced 1.9 million cars, placing us as leaders in the nation for automobile manufacturing,” stated Gov. Kay Ivey. “With almost every global car manufacturer shifting towards electrification, we must take the lead in this important transition.”
This week, the alliance was formalized through a memorandum signed by the three governors alongside the CEO of Southern Company, the local utility heads, and the presidents of the participating universities.
Interestingly, this partnership is also vying for significant federal funding as part of the National Science Foundation Regional Innovation Engines competition.
“Motorcycle manufacturing is vital not just for Alabama, but the entire Southeast,” remarked Jeff Peoples, Alabama’s electricity president and CEO. “We’re excited to support initiatives that propel electric vehicle technology forward across our systems, working together for future growth.”
The automotive footprint in the Southeast has expanded dramatically over recent years. Alabama is home to manufacturing plants from notable companies like Mercedes-Benz, Honda, Hyundai, and Mazda Toyota, producing vehicles and parts for a global market.
Automobiles represent Alabama’s top export category, totaling $11.2 billion in exports in 2023, securing the state’s position as the leader in vehicle exports.
Officials emphasize that this new collaboration is essential for maintaining the region’s growth as industries pivot toward electrification and connected mobility.
“This partnership offers a chance to reshape the landscape of vehicle and battery manufacturing in Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi,” commented Peter Mohler, president of the University of Alabama. “By merging our research strengths with support from industry and government, we can foster innovation, workforce development, and drive economic growth in the region.”
