Slate Auto to Transform Indiana Printing Plant into EV Truck Factory

Innovative EV Startup Chooses Historic Indiana Location

In a significant development for American manufacturing, Slate Auto, the emerging electric vehicle startup that recently emerged from stealth mode, is finalizing plans to establish its production facility in Warsaw, Indiana. The company has identified a former printing plant as the future home for its innovative and affordable electric truck production line.

Massive Facility and Job Creation

The facility in question is an impressive 1.4 million-square-foot former printing plant, which Slate Auto plans to lease for an undisclosed amount. According to economic development officials, this move could bring up to 2,000 new jobs to the region. The county has already prepared an incentive package for the company, though specific details remain under wraps due to ongoing negotiations.

Strategic Location and Historical Significance

The Warsaw facility, built in 1958 and formerly operated by R.R. Donnelly, has been inactive for approximately two years. During a recent company event, Slate Auto displayed an aerial photograph of the facility, which matches public records available through the Indiana Economic Development Corporation’s website. The company has previously announced plans to manufacture EVs in Indiana, with their electric trucks projected to cost under $20,000 after federal tax credits.

Commitment to American Manufacturing

Slate Auto’s CEO, Chris Barman, emphasized the company’s dedication to domestic manufacturing, stating, “Our truck will be made here in the USA as part of our commitment to re-industrializing America.” This aligns with the company’s origins within Re:Build Manufacturing, a Massachusetts-based enterprise focused on strengthening American manufacturing capabilities.

Strong Financial Backing and Innovative Approach

The startup has secured substantial funding to support its ambitious plans, with backing from notable investors including Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, Guggenheim Partners CEO Mark Walter, and venture capital firm General Catalyst. The company has raised over $100 million to date, demonstrating strong investor confidence in their vision.

Cost-Effective Manufacturing Strategy

Slate Auto has developed an innovative approach to vehicle manufacturing that could significantly reduce production costs. Instead of traditional paint shops, which can cost hundreds of millions of dollars to build, the company plans to offer vehicle wraps. This strategic decision could result in substantial savings during the plant’s conversion and ongoing operations.

Economic Impact and Future Prospects

While specific details about the incentive package remain confidential, as confirmed by Peggy Friday, CEO of the Kosciusko County Economic Development Corporation, the project represents a significant economic opportunity for the region. The conversion of this dormant facility into a modern EV production plant symbolizes the ongoing transformation of traditional manufacturing into green technology hubs across America.

Looking Ahead

The establishment of Slate Auto’s production facility in Warsaw, Indiana, marks a crucial step in the company’s mission to revolutionize the electric vehicle market with affordable options while contributing to American manufacturing renaissance. As the project moves forward, it promises to become a significant catalyst for economic growth and sustainable transportation innovation in the region.