Siemens Mobility has started construction on a passenger rolling stock manufacturing and services facility in Lexington.
The $220-million plant will build passenger coaches and overhaul locomotives and hauled stock. It is expected to open in 2024. North Carolina is providing a 12-year job development investment grant for the project, which is forecast to grow the state’s economy by $1·6bn.
Technologies to be deployed will include robotic welding, 3D printing and virtual reality welder training. The 200-acre site will allow for future growth, the US market-leading rolling stock manufacturer explained.
“Our new east coast hometown will soon be a powerhouse when it comes to rail manufacturing,” said Michael Cahill, president of rolling stock, Siemens Mobility North America. “Complementing our operations in Sacramento, our bi-coastal facilities will work together to manufacture the latest rail technology.”
The plant is planned to be carbon neutral when fully operating.
“This is not just an investment in rail, but an investment in manufacturing, jobs, sustainability, digitalization and the future of modern transportation,” said Marc Buncher, CEO of Siemens Mobility North America.
The site could provide an economic boost of up to $1.6 billion over the next decade,” according to United States Senator Ted Budd.
