Cummins, Daimler and PACCAR joint venture appoints CEO

The joint venture between Accelera by Cummins, Daimler Truck and PACCAR to produce battery cells in the USA has been named Amplify Cell Technologies. Kel Kearns has been appointed as CEO to lead the company’s production of lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery cells for commercial vehicle and industrial applications in North America. 

Construction will soon begin in Marshall County, Mississippi to build a 21-gigawatt hour (GWh) factory. The site has potential to expand in the future to meet growing demand. The facility is expected to be ready to start production in 2027 and will employ more than 2000 people. 

The joint venture is owned by Accelera, Daimler Truck and PACCAR who each have a 30% share and the remaining 10% is owned by EVE Energy. As the technology partner, EVE Energy brings its battery cell design and manufacturing expertise. 

Jennifer Rumsey, chair and CEO, Cummins Inc, said: “Cummins’ power solutions are at the heart of the economy, and we have the responsibility to decarbonize in a way that meets our customers’ varied needs as they navigate the energy transition. Amplify Cell Technologies will enable Accelera by Cummins and our partners to advance battery cells focused on commercial and industrial applications in North America and serve our customers’ evolving needs. This is a significant step forward as we continue leading our industry into the next era of smarter, cleaner power.”

Preston Feight, PACCAR CEO, said: “Amplify Cell Technologies will enable PACCAR to offer customers cost-effective premium quality battery electric powertrains that meet their operational and sustainability needs. We are pleased to begin this exciting venture with these world class partners.”

John O'Leary, president and CEO of Daimler Truck North America said: “For Daimler Truck, a strict focus on costs and smart capital allocation are the key levers to succeed on the path toward truly sustainable transportation. This partnership enables economies of scale beyond Daimler Truck. It is a key puzzle piece of our battery industrialization strategy, ensuring access to the right battery cell technology at the right cost and right time for our customers.”