Stellantis and Samsung Group are teaming up for another joint battery plant in the United States, forming their joint venture “StarPlus Energy.” The companies announced on Monday that production is set to begin in 2027, with an annual production capacity of 34 gigawatt hours (GWh) planned. The location for the new facility is currently being evaluated. Stellantis and Samsung can potentially receive support from the US government’s subsidy program.
The first battery factory, part of the collaboration, is currently under construction in Kokomo, Indiana, and is expected to be operational in the first quarter of 2025. During its construction, the partners increased the annual production capacity from 23 to 33 GWh. Over $3.1 billion has already been invested in the project. Samsung plans to produce its premium battery technology brand, PRiMX, based on lithium as the active material. Stellantis aims to introduce at least 25 new battery-electric models to the North American market by the end of the decade.
Stellantis, well-known in the US market with brands like Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram, is utilizing its electrified model offensive to achieve its planned CO₂ neutrality by 2038. According to Stellantis’ strategic plan, “Dare Forward 2030,” the company aims for a 50 percent mix of battery-electric passenger cars and commercial vehicles in the US by 2030, as well as fully battery-electric passenger car sales in Europe. To ensure these goals are met, Stellantis has secured 400 GWh of battery capacity produced to date through contracts.
The collaboration between Stellantis and Samsung in the US is seen as a solid foundation for Samsung’s presence in North America, according to Yoon-ho Choi, President and CEO of Samsung. Both companies are hopeful for an accelerated market penetration in the US and a secure buyer for Samsung’s power storage devices.
