A key leader in the leadership team of Ford’s BlueOval City in West Tennessee has announced their departure to join a competing auto manufacturer.
Amplify Cell Technologies has recently named Kel Kearns as their new CEO, as per a news release. The appointment follows the company’s successful joint venture with Accelera by Cummins, Daimler Trucks & Buses US Holding LLC, and PACCAR.
In a statement, Jennifer Rumsey, the CEO of Cummins, expressed her excitement about the partnership with Amplify Cell Technologies. She believes that this collaboration will allow Accelera by Cummins and their partners to provide exceptional solutions that cater to their customers’ needs while also contributing to a sustainable future. Rumsey sees this as a crucial step towards leading the industry into a new era of cleaner and smarter power.
Amplify Cell Technologies, a joint venture, has announced its plan to commence the construction of a new electric vehicle plant in Marshall County, Mississippi. The estimated cost of this project is $1.9 billion, and the factory is anticipated to create 2,000 job opportunities in the manufacturing sector. The plant is scheduled to become operational in 2027. To support the funding of the electric vehicle and battery manufacturing plant, the Mississippi legislators passed a $482 million incentive package in January.
Since 1995, Kearns has been a part of the Ford team and has been serving as the plant manager at BlueOval City’s Tennessee Electric Vehicle Center. Recently, Ford has reinforced its commitment to electric vehicles and has been prioritizing its efforts at BlueOval City located in Stanton.
Kearns was the subject of a statement released by Ford, which reads as follows:
After overseeing the Tennessee Electric Vehicle Plant’s initial growth, which is now almost complete, Kel made the decision to retire. He felt the timing was ideal, having put together a skilled leadership team and fostered a culture that prioritizes both people and quality. Kel’s contributions and dedication throughout his numerous years of service worldwide are greatly appreciated.
The state of Tennessee is set to welcome a new wave of employment opportunities as Avancez, a supplier for Ford, announces its arrival in West Tennessee. With the creation of over 500 jobs, Avancez’s move is expected to have a significant impact on the local economy.
Amplify’s ownership is divided into three equal parts. The business is jointly owned by Accelera, Daimler Truck, and PACCAR, each holding a 30% stake. EVE Energy Co., a Chinese lithium battery producer, is a partner in the venture with a 10% ownership share.
